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Monitoring kidney health is essential for detecting early signs of kidney problems and preventing serious complications. Regular testing helps identify issues before symptoms appear, allowing for timely intervention and management. Understanding the key tests and when to seek medical advice can improve health outcomes.
Common Kidney Function Tests
The most common tests to assess kidney health include blood and urine tests. These tests evaluate how well the kidneys are filtering waste and maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance.
Key Tests Explained
The blood test called serum creatinine measures waste product levels in the blood. From this, the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is calculated, indicating kidney function. Urinalysis examines urine for protein, blood, or other abnormalities that may signal kidney damage.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you experience symptoms such as swelling in the legs or ankles, fatigue, changes in urination, or persistent pain in your back or sides, consult a healthcare professional. Regular testing is recommended for individuals with risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease.
- Persistent swelling or puffiness around the eyes
- Blood in urine
- Unexplained fatigue or weakness
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- High blood pressure that is difficult to control