Who Should Get Their Kidney Function Tested Regularly? Risk Factors You Should Know
Sometimes kidney issues can occur without any obvious symptoms. Therefore those with certain medical conditions or a family history may wish to have kidney function checked regularly.
Kidney function can be monitored using a creatinine test, KFT (Kidney Function Test) and urine albumin test allowing for issues to be detected early. Those who may benefit from regular kidney function tests will find it easier to see a medical professional.
Why should kidney function be monitored regularly?
The kidneys are responsible for removing waste from the blood, removing extra water and helping maintain the correct balance of minerals and electrolytes in the body.
Many kidney issues can occur slowly and without many initial symptoms. Therefore this can delay detection. Blood and urine tests can help detect kidney issues and can help monitor for changes.
Who May Need Regular Kidney Function Tests?
Those with certain conditions are more likely to suffer from kidney issues.
- Diabetes
Diabetes can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the kidneys due to increased glucose levels in the blood.
For those with type 2 diabetes or those with type 1 diabetes for several years, regular kidney function tests should be performed.
- High blood pressure
High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels supplying the kidneys. Kidney issues can cause high blood pressure.
Those with chronic hypertension should speak to their medical professional to see whether kidney function tests should be carried out.
- Family history of kidney issues
Those with a close family member who has suffered kidney failure or an inherited issue may be at higher risk. Some kidney issues run in families and can sometimes occur without obvious symptoms.
- Older adults and those with cardiovascular issues
As we get older the risks of kidney issues tend to increase. Those with heart issues or heart failure may also be at increased risk due to the link between kidney and cardiovascular health.
Tests should be decided upon depending on the overall health, condition/s, medications and previous results.
- Previous kidney issues or acute kidney injury
Those with sudden kidney deterioration, kidney stones causing complications or other kidney issues may require follow up tests. Those with previous acute kidney injury can be at increased risk of developing kidney issues.
This will depend on reason, recovery and risk factors.
- Certain medications
Some medications can affect kidney function. This can be more of an issue for those with kidney issues, dehydration or taking multiple medications.
Speak to your doctor about monitoring whilst taking medications that may affect the kidneys. Do not stop or alter medications without medical advice.
Early signs of kidney disease
Often there are no obvious symptoms of kidney disease in the early stage however some changes can occur. Early signs of kidney trouble can include:
- Swelling around the ankles/feet/eyes.
- Changes in urine – urine consistently foamy or blood in the urine.
- Feeling unusually tired.
- Constant itchiness or muscle cramps.
- Loss of appetite, nausea or unexplained changes in overall wellbeing.
These are not specific to kidney issues and can be caused by other issues. Some symptoms may not show until kidney function has deteriorated. Signs of renal failure, kidney malfunction or CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease) should be taken into consideration clinically.
How frequently should kidney function be tested?
There is no one size fits all answer. Frequency will depend on existing conditions, previous results and risk of kidney damage.
- Those with diabetes – Regular tests are recommended. Annually is commonly used. More frequent if clinically indicated.
- Those with high blood pressure/cardiovascular issues – Speak to your doctor to see how frequently blood and urine tests should be carried out.
- Those diagnosed with CKD(Chronic Kidney Disease) – Generally tests should be carried out at least annually. Those at higher risk may require more frequent testing.
- Those with previous kidney injury or risk factors – Follow up should be based on medical history and recovery.
Results should be looked at with previous results. A single abnormal result does not indicate chronic kidney disease. Evidence of chronicity is important, usually 3 months or longer.
If you experience any of the following symptoms
Consistent swelling, changes in urine, feeling tired without any obvious reason or other unusual symptoms you should see a medical professional. Especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure or a history of kidney issues.
To help with this keep a note of when you started experiencing symptoms, has it gotten worse? Have you noticed any changes in your urine? Tell your doctor about any existing medical conditions and medications. Ask whether a creatinine test, KFT(Kidney Function Test) or urine albumin test would be appropriate.
Tests should be done depending on clinical needs.
When to see a doctor
If you are experiencing consistent symptoms, blood in your urine regularly, swelling without an obvious cause or difficulty controlling your blood pressure you should see a medical professional.
Those with diabetes, hypertension or a family history of kidney failure should also speak with their doctor about screening.
How is it diagnosed?
Kidney health is usually assessed based on medical history, examination and investigations.
Creatinine test – This measures creatinine levels in the blood. Creatinine is a waste product filtered by the kidneys. This is used to calculate eGFR to help determine kidney function.
Kidney Function Test (KFT) – This test is often used to measure creatinine, urea and electrolytes. This will vary depending on the lab.
Urine albumin Test – This checks for albumin in the urine. Albumin is a protein that can leak into the urine when there is kidney damage. The uACR is commonly used.
Depending on findings, your doctor may decide to carry out further blood/urine tests, ultrasound or other investigations.
These tests will all complement each other. A creatinine test may not show all early changes, therefore measuring urine albumin can be important. If abnormal results are found they may need to be confirmed.
Apollo Diagnostics can be considered. Tests should be decided based on medical advice. Results should be considered based on medical history and previous results.
Conclusion
Those with diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular issues, family history of kidney failure or previous kidney injury should have regular kidney function tests. Due to the lack of early signs of kidney malfunction, screening based on risk can be more useful.
It is a good idea to speak to your medical professional about what tests should be carried out and how frequently. Apollo Diagnostics can be considered.