Renal Blood Test
The Renal Blood test, also known as a kidney function blood test, is the main test that’s used to analyse how well your kidneys are functioning. This can be useful when you have signs and symptoms that suggest you may have a condition affecting kidney function. A screening will allow you and your team of medical experts to take the necessary precautions to help manage any possible conditions.
The renal screening is commonly used for those who are at risk of developing kidney disease.
When is having a Renal Blood Test important?
Most at risk to chronic kidney are people with:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- A family history of kidney disease
Having a kidney function blood test is an important health measure to take on a yearly basis, especially if you:
- Are taking multiple medications
- Are taking diuretics, for example, frusemide (water-loss tablets)
- Have had a series of kidney or urine infections
- Are taking ACE (angiotensin-converting-enzyme) inhibitors to control your blood pressure
- Are simply feeling tired and you generally feel unwell
Issues with a poorly functioning or failed kidney are difficult to diagnose purely based on your presenting clinical symptoms; thus, having a kidney (renal) blood test is the best method for monitoring the functioning of your kidneys. If you do have a clinical history of either high/raised blood pressure or diabetes, or if you have a family history of multiple urine infections or kidney problems, then it is critical that you have these kidney function tests carried out each year.
What are the symptoms of kidney disease?
The following symptoms may be indicative of chronic kidney disease:
- Weight loss or poor appetite
- Swollen ankles, feet or hands (oedema)
- Shortness of breath
- General tiredness
- Blood in your urine
- Increased need to urinate
- Muscle cramps
The symptoms of kidney disease can be caused by many less serious conditions, so it’s important to get a proper diagnosis. However, if you have persistent or worrying symptoms that you think could be caused by kidney disease, then you should seek the advice of a medical specialist.
A screening simply involves a blood sample taken from a vein in your arm. At your IPSA Medical clinic, your renal blood test results are back with us within 24 hours, and your practitioner will interpret them fully for you and provide you with a copy of your results.
The information on this page is just a guide. Your IPSA Medical specialist can answer any queries you might have and guide you step-by-step through the process suitable to your individual needs.
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