Types of Kidney Tests

Kidney tests are carried out to determine how well the kidneys are functioning. This is vital in averting possible kidney failure and also gauging how well a treatment is working if a person has already been diagnosed with kidney disease.

Kidneys tests also help detect what is responsible for causing damage to the kidney in addition to helping know when to a commence treatment. It is important to note that kidneys tests can be done by the use of urine or blood samples.

Listed Below Are Various Types Of Kidney Tests

Creatinine Clearance

A creatinine clearance test is used to establish the kidneys degree of function. Creatinine is a by-product of muscle. The amount of creatinine in the urine is what determines how well the kidney is functioning.

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)

Another test carried out to find how well the kidneys are functioning is the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). A special substance known as a tracer is injected into the body through the vein. After the injection is done, follow up tests which may include blood imaging to establish how quickly the tracer passes through the kidneys and the time it takes to exit the body are carried out.

Urinalysis

A urinalysis tallies the total number of red blood cells and white blood cells present in the urine. It also tests for proteins levels, sugar and bacteria in the urine.

Blood Urea Nitrogen Test

A blood urea nitrogen test helped determine the level of nitrogen in the blood and urine. High levels of nitrogen could be an indication that the kidneys are not function well enough to eliminate urea from the blood.

Computed Axial Tomography (CAT)

The computed axial tomography scan uses x-rays to give pictures of the body in crosswise slices. A computed axial scan can detect presence of kidney stones cysts, blockage and any other solid mass.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

A magnetic resonance imaging scan exposes the body to strong magnetic fields to create images based on the molecular composition of the kidneys. Magnetic resonance imaging scans produce images that have finer details than computed axial tomography scan but cannot be conducted on individuals who have metal devices such as pace makers or defibrillators in the body. This is because the scan involves exposing the patient to a strong magnetic field.

One of the major functions of the kidney is to filter blood and remove waste products from the body. The inability of the kidneys to perform this function could be an indication of kidney failure. A regular visit to a doctor for kidney tests is advisable.

Searching for other ways to lower Creatinine levels, improve kidney function, and safeguard your kidneys from further damage? Kidney disease can come as a complete surprise. You are just living your life and one day seemingly all at once you learn you have a major problem with your kidneys that must be dealt with. While kidney disease is a great burden know that there are solutions and you can heal your kidneys and even restore them to their original health. Hopefully this information will help you come to a better understanding of the other options you have outside of dialysis and transplant.