BUN and creatinine testing

[billd766]

I went to the private hospital in Khampaeng Phet yesterday for my 3 monthly FBS and INR tests which were OK and the doctor said that next time he wants me to have a BUN and creatinine test.

 

I have looked it up on the internet and BUN = Blood Urea Nitrogen test.

 

It is something to do with my kidneys.

 

http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/blood-urea-nitrogen/details/why-its-done/icc-20211246

 

You may need a blood urea nitrogen test:

If your doctor suspects that you have kidney damage

If your kidney function needs to be evaluated

To help determine the effectiveness of dialysis treatment if you're receiving hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis

As part of a blood test group to help diagnose a number of other conditions, such as liver damage, urinary tract obstruction, congestive heart failure or gastrointestinal bleeding — although an abnormal BUN test result alone doesn't confirm any of these conditions

If kidney problems are the main concern, the creatinine levels in your blood will likely also be measured when your blood is tested for urea nitrogen levels. Creatinine is another waste product that healthy kidneys filter out of your body through urine. High levels of creatinine in your blood may be a sign of kidney damage.

Your doctor may also test how well your kidneys are removing waste from the blood. To do this, you may have a blood sample taken to calculate your estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR). The GFR estimates the percentage of kidney function you have left.

 

http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/blood-urea-nitrogen#1

 

There are quite a few more online references out there on Google.

 

I am 73, over weight, a non smoker and a moderate drinker.

 

I am curious and a little concerned about the test.

 

Could Sheryl or anybody who has had this test done try to explain to me in fairly simple terms what it means and what it involves other than the blood test sample.

 

It would put my mind at rest.

[robblok]

I have had this test many times, its actually a cheap and standard test. I would not worry too much about it seen this test in many of the hospital packages. Unless you have some problems i would just see it as one of those extra cheap tests that are done just to be sure. 

[Sheryl]

It is just a blood test and easily done. No need to fast before hand. Best if done when adequately hydrated as dehydration can throw results especially for the BUN.

 

Likely your doctor wants to be assurred your kidney function is normal as if not it would affect the dosing of medication.

[billd766]

3 hours ago, Sheryl said:

It is just a blood test and easily done. No need to fast before hand. Best if done when adequately hydrated as dehydration can throw results especially for the BUN.

 

Likely your doctor wants to be assurred your kidney function is normal as if not it would affect the dosing of medication.

 

I will be fasting that morning as I will also be getting my FBS and INr tests done at the same time. After the duty vampire has sucked some blood from me I will be off for an exotic breakfast at the 7/11 just down the road. I know it isn't real food but I live 65 km from the hospital and it will be about 14 hours since I last ate.