Kidney Function Test (KFT)

Kidneys are a vital organ of the body and essential for removing metabolic waste and maintaining the body's balance of water and electrolytes. Kidney function tests (KFTs) assess how well the kidneys perform by analysing their efficiency in eliminating waste. You may need to provide a 24-hour urine sample, undergo a blood test, or both to evaluate kidney function.

What functions do your kidneys serve?

The genito-urinary system consists of your kidneys, located just below your left rib cage at the back of your abdomen. The kidneys help eliminate waste products by creating urine. Their additional functions include:

• Producing hormones that help regulate blood pressure
• Generating red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout the body
• Synthesising vitamin D, which is crucial for muscle and bone health

Maintaining your kidney health is vital. You can obtain a kidney function test (KFT) to assess your kidneys' current status thoroughly.
 

What symptoms could indicate kidney issues?

Symptoms that might suggest a kidney issue include:

• Frequent urges to urinate
• Difficulty initiating urination
• Pain when urinating
• Elevated blood pressure
• The presence of blood in the urine
• Swelling in the hands and feet

Your healthcare provider will review your symptoms, correlate them with test results, and establish a diagnosis. Furthermore, a single symptom may not necessarily indicate a serious condition.
 

What are kidney function tests?

Healthy kidneys typically filter bodily waste or toxins, including excess fluid, from the bloodstream. Blood and urine tests reveal how effectively your kidneys function and how well waste is removed from the body. Urine analyses can indicate if the kidneys leak excessive protein, a hallmark of kidney damage.

Here, we will explore various tests used to evaluate kidney functionality. Most kidney function tests focus on assessing the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which measures how efficiently your kidneys eliminate waste.
 

What types of Kidney Function Tests (KFT) are available?

To ascertain the health of your kidneys, your doctor may recommend several kidney function tests. Common tests included in KFT are:

1. Serum Creatinine  

Creatinine is a waste product generated by the body's metabolism. The kidneys filter out creatinine from the bloodstream and excrete it via urine. The body efficiently eliminates creatinine through the kidneys, keeping its levels low. As a result, high creatinine levels can indicate kidney problems. Generally, the normal serum creatinine levels are:

• For adult males: 0.74 to 1.35 mg/dL
• For adult females: 0.59 to 1.04 mg/dL

2. Uric Acid  

Uric acid is produced when the body metabolises organic compounds. The kidneys filter out this waste product and eliminate it through urine. Therefore, increased and decreased uric acid levels might signify kidney damage.  

The normal range for uric acid is generally between 3.7-9.2 mg/dL.

3. Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)  

Urea nitrogen is produced as a result of protein breakdown in the body. It is another waste product that kidneys filter and remove through urine. The urea nitrogen concentration in your bloodstream should be within certain limits. Factors other than kidney function, such as certain medications, can also cause elevated blood urea nitrogen levels.

Generally, the typical BUN range is between 7-25 mg/dL.

4. Electrolytes

Electrolytes are minerals in blood and body fluids that support multiple bodily functions. They can carry a positive or negative charge. An electrolyte test helps monitor electrolyte levels in the body and is a strong indicator of kidney performance. Key electrolytes include sodium, potassium, and chloride. The normal ranges for each electrolyte may vary slightly among men and women and across different age groups.

Get your kidney function tested with TruePal. 

5. Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR)

The GFR assesses the kidneys’ capacity to filter waste from the body. Your typical GFR results might not always align with your standard serum creatinine levels. Therefore, estimating the glomerular filtration rate or eGFR—regarded as the "gold standard" measure—is preferred to assess your kidney function accurately. This calculation considers your serum creatinine, age, race, and sex to estimate your GFR. Since this result approximates your current kidney function, it offers clear insights into the extent of any kidney damage you may have.

In general,

• A normal GFR is considered to be 60 or above. 
• A test result below 60 GFR may suggest kidney-related issues. 
• A below 15 GFR test result may signal advanced kidney failure. 

Additionally, your physician might perform a 24-hour urine test, which may include:

6. Microalbuminuria

This test detects the presence of a specific protein called albumin in your urine. A urine albumin level below 30 is typically considered normal while exceeding 30 may indicate potential kidney problems.

7. Urinalysis

This test assesses your urine for the presence of blood and proteins.
 

Purpose of Kidney Function Tests

Elevated blood sugar levels or diabetes, as well as high blood pressure or hypertension, are significant factors that affect kidney functionality. When a patient has either of these conditions, a physician may suggest kidney function tests (KFT) to monitor the patient's state.

Similarly, a kidney function test may be necessary if a person exhibits symptoms indicative of kidney issues. The accompanying symptoms can include:

• Elevated blood pressure 
• The presence of blood in urine 
• Frequent urination 
• Difficulties during urination 
• Discomfort while urinating 
• Fluid retention in the body, resulting in swelling of the hands and feet 

Are there any Preparations Needed Before the Kidney Function Test (KFT)?

No special preparations are required before undergoing your KFT. You can have blood drawn for the KFT test in the comfort of your home by qualified professionals.
 

Procedure of Kidney Function Tests 

As previously noted, urine samples collected over 24 hours and blood tests are typically essential components of kidney function tests.

Urine Test After 24 Hours

A 24-hour urine sample collection is commonly employed to assess creatinine clearance, which determines the quantity of creatinine excreted by a patient's body within 24 hours. Healthcare providers provide a special container for urine collection. During this process, it is recommended that the container be kept sealed and refrigerated. Ensure the container is clearly labelled and inform family members about the need for refrigeration during storage.

Blood Samples

BUN and serum creatinine tests require blood samples to be obtained in a laboratory or medical clinic. Before the blood draw, the technician applies a tourniquet around the upper arm, making the veins visible from which blood will be collected. Subsequently, the technician disinfects the area and inserts a hollow needle into the patient’s vein through the skin. The blood is gathered using a test tube and then sent to a laboratory for analysis.  
 

When should you consider a kidney function test?  

A kidney function test (KFT) enables you to identify any potential kidney-related health issues you may have. However, if you have the following health issues or certain lifestyle factors, kidney function tests are crucial for you:  

• Any kidney-related health issues 
• Symptoms indicative of kidney damage 
• Conditions that can harm the kidneys, like high blood pressure or diabetes 
• A family history of kidney-related ailments 
• Over 60 years of age 
• A heavy smoking habit  

If you suspect you have any of these conditions, assess your kidney health today. Schedule a kidney function test online and have it examined in your home by qualified professionals.  
 

Who Is Qualified to Perform Kidney Function Tests (KFT)?  

A qualified healthcare provider known as a phlebotomist or trained individual will collect your blood for kidney function tests. Your blood samples are then forwarded to diagnostic laboratories for analysis.  

Can Your Kidney Function Improve?  

Kidney disease can be managed effectively if detected promptly. There are advanced treatment options available that can help postpone or prevent kidney failure in case of severe kidney damage.  

Regardless of your test results:  

• Keep your blood pressure, blood glucose, and cholesterol within recommended ranges.  
• Reduce your salt intake and opt for a kidney-friendly, balanced diet.  
• Stay physically active.  
• Follow your provider's instructions for medication.  
• Regularly get tested to monitor your kidney health.  

Are kidney function tests risky?  

KFT blood tests are standard and carry minimal risk. However, during the blood collection, you may experience mild discomfort or pain that will eventually subside.  
 

Conclusion  

Kidney function tests are essential to ensure that your kidneys are working effectively. Your kidneys' health is crucial for your body's ability to eliminate waste. Deterioration in kidney function can occur due to conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or other health-related issues.  

Schedule your kidney function test at TruePal, which offers a comprehensive range of blood testing and health examination services. Skilled blood collection technicians will come to your home for your blood draw at your convenience. 
 

FAQs

1. How can I determine if I have a kidney disorder?

While there are generally no obvious symptoms of a kidney disorder, it is important to undergo a kidney function test to diagnose any potential kidney issues accurately. You can schedule the test through TruePal, and the cost of the KFT is budget-friendly.

2. Is it necessary to fast before undergoing the KFT? 

No, fasting is not required before the KFT. You can eat and drink as you usually would.

3. Is it possible for the KFT to identify kidney damage?

Doctors often advise patients with diabetes or hypertension to get KFT blood tests, as these conditions can impair kidney function. As a result, the kidney function test helps monitor these health issues.

4. What constitutes a normal KFT level?

Generally, the standard serum creatinine range for adult males is from 0.74 to 1.35 mg/dL. The normal serum creatinine range for adult females is between 0.59 and 1.04 mg/dL.

5. What steps can I take to avoid kidney disease?

1. Manage cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and blood pressure levels. 

2. Limit alcohol consumption. 

3. Stay active by exercising daily. 

4. Incorporate green leafy vegetables and fruits into your meals. 

5. Ensure you sleep well.

6. Drink plenty of water.