What is The Kidney Function Test and What are its Uses?

Byemilyharper1
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The kidneys are a pair of vital organs that purify the blood and remove waste from the body. They are bean-shaped organs located below the rib cage, and their size is equivalent to the fist. They release hormones to regulate blood pressure and control red blood cell production. The function of kidneys is vital since they eliminate waste products, drugs, and toxins through the urine. Some people have renal agenesis, i.e., they are born with only one kidney. People with kidney dysplasia have both kidneys at birth, but only one works. Some people donate a kidney or have one removed due to certain diseases.

People can surely live a healthy life with one kidney, but survival is not possible without both.

Kidney Diseases

Certain conditions may damage the kidney. Kidney stones or renal stones are formed inside the kidneys due to deposits of salts or minerals. An excess of mineral salts or uric acid in the body can lead to kidney stones. Pyelonephritis or kidney infections are a type of urinary tract infection. They occur when the infection travels upwards to the kidneys from the urethra and urinary bladder. Kidney cysts may occur when injury or damage causes fluid accumulation.

Diabetes, high blood pressure, genetic conditions, or heart diseases can cause chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD gradually damages the kidneys. Acute Renal Failure (ARF) leads to damage or complete failure within a short time. Shock, medication, dehydration, or burns are some of the causes of ARF or acute kidney injury. Renal Cell Carcinoma is the most common type of kidney cancer. The risk factors for kidney cancer are smoking, obesity, hypertension, or family history.

Symptoms of Kidney Problems

Very few patients with chronic kidney disease know they are suffering from it. In some cases, people do not experience the symptoms until later stages. The only way to confirm if you have kidney disease is through tests. Annual tests are essential if you have a family history, diabetes, or high blood pressure. People older than 60 years are also at risk for kidney diseases. Talk to your doctor about a kidney function test if you experience the following symptoms.

  • Fatigue, tiredness, or trouble concentrating
  • Sleep apnea or difficulty sleeping
  • Dry, itchy skin
  • Frequent urination
  • Blood in urine
  • Persistent puffiness around the eyes
  • Swollen feet and ankles
  • Muscle Cramps
  • Poor appetite
  • Changes in urine – excessive bubbles or foam

Kidney Function Tests, Uses & Types

Kidney function tests are conducted to evaluate if the kidneys are functioning correctly. These can be blood or urine tests, most of which calculate glomerular filtration rate (GFR). GFR indicates the effectiveness of kidneys in removing waste from the system. Conditions like diabetes and hypertension may affect the proper working of kidneys. Monitor these conditions and discuss with your healthcare practitioner if you need to undergo a kidney function test. Symptoms like blood in the urine, painful urination, or frequent urination indicate kidney problems. You may need a kidney function test if you have any of these symptoms.

Your doctor may prescribe any of these kidney function tests to estimate GFR:

  • Urinalysis – Checks urine for blood, proteins, and function
  • Serum Creatinine Test – Evaluates creatinine build-up. Creatinine is a waste product generated from muscle tissue breakdown
  • Estimated GFR – Determines filtration rates depending on age, gender, protein levels, etc.
  • Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) – Measures nitrogen in the blood resulting from protein breakdown
  • Microalbuminuria – Detects the presence of protein albumin

Test Procedure & Results

A urine sample is taken for 24 hour period for a creatinine clearance test. This test lets your doctor know how much creatinine your body eliminates in one day. Follow the instructions given for the collection and submission of the sample.

Serum Creatinine and Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) tests are blood tests. The technician will draw blood from your arm through a needle, like any other blood test.

Tests for kidney diseases are simple, and you should typically not experience any side effects. However, some people have mild bruising and experience dizziness or fatigue after the blood tests. Urine and blood tests for detecting kidney diseases do not have long-term complications or pain. Speak to your doctor if you experience symptoms that persist after the tests.

Most tests evaluate two factors to determine if your kidneys are working properly

  • If GFR < 60, it can indicate kidney disease
  • If UACR (Urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio)  > 30 mg per gram can be considered a warning for kidney disease

Conclusion

Kidneys are essential to remove waste from your body. Diabetes, high blood pressure, or family history can impact kidney functions. Kidney function tests are important for diagnosing kidney disease and ruling out infections. Your doctor can explain the test results and develop a treatment plan. You may require further testing, medications, and consultation with a nephrologist.

5 Top Reasons to Schedule a Chimney Inspection Worcester MA

Starting away in front of a roaring fire is one of the most accessible and most satisfying pastimes during cold weather. However, there is nothing pleasant about the fire, smoke, and water damage that can occur if your fireplace is not kept clean. Having your chimney, fireplace, or wood-burning stove inspected by a Chimney Sweep certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of Worcester MA can help prevent serious problems and keep your venting system running efficiently. can assist To that end, three types of chimney inspections are available:

How much does a chimney inspection in Worcester MA cost

level 1 chimney inspection ($75 to $250) consists of a visual inspection of the fireplace or wood-burning stove and chimney. Choose this option if you intend to use your fireplace/wood-burning stove as you have in the past. If there have been no changes to the fuel type or the shape/material of the flu (i.e., the space inside the chimney) in the year since your last chimney inspection. There has been no damage to the chimney structure.

level 2 chimney inspection ($100 to $500) includes online scanning of internal chimney surfaces. This is the best option if you've made any changes to the chimney or fireplace since the last inspection. Such as changing the fuel type or the shape or material of the flu (i.e., the space inside the chimney). If there was a malfunction that may have damaged the chimney (e.g., a fire or earthquake). If you're planning to sell your home soon.

level 3 chimney inspection ($1,000 to $5,000) inspection includes a Level 1 and Level 2 inspection, as well as a partial tear-out of the chimney to look for more severe damage. If a Level 1 or Level 2 inspection reveals potential safety hazards or hidden problems in the chimney, technicians will perform this inspection.

Parts that are not visible to the naked eye may be damaged.
Repairing or replacing damaged chimney components on time can reduce the risk of fires, carbon monoxide exposure, and water damage. Unfortunately, many vital parts of the chimney are hidden or too high for homeowners to inspect. A chimney sweep is equipped and trained to evaluate damage to the following critical chimney components:

Crown: A crown is a downward-sloping concrete, stone, or metal overhang at the top of a chimney that directs water away from the exterior of the chimney to prevent erosion. Rainwater can run down the sides of the chimney and erode it if it is cracked, usually as a result of weather exposure or the use of weak construction materials, compromising its structural integrity over time. Rainwater can also enter the flu and deteriorate the flue liner (see below). To prevent water damage to the chimney and flue, an inspector can repair or replace a cracked crown.

The flue liner—a clay, ceramic, or metal conduit located between the flue and the chimney walls—protects the chimney walls from heat and corrosion. When combustion byproducts are directed out through the flue. It also prevents smoke and harmful vapors such as carbon monoxide from entering your home through potential cracks in chimney masonry. High heat or embers can damage chimney walls or touch surrounding combustible materials of the home and spark a chimney fire. When cracks form in the flue due to excessive heat, water damage, or wear and tear. Smoke and vapors can also enter the home through masonry cracks, potentially exposing you to carbon monoxide. An inspector can quickly detect and repair cracks in the flue liner. Our Chimney Inspection Worcester MA and surrounding areas. We perform all services related to chimney cleaning & maintenance. Call us at 508-960-7546.