What is this test?
- This laboratory test is performed on a blood sample to measure the levels of urea nitrogen. Urea nitrogen is an end-product of metabolic protein breakdown. It is produced by the liver and excreted out through urine. Abnormal levels of urea nitrogen may indicate a kidney or liver disease.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed:
- To evaluate kidney damage
- To help in the diagnosis of following conditions:
- Liver disease
- Congestive heart failure
- Malnutrition
- Poor circulation
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Dehydration
- To monitor the efficacy of treatment
- To detect kidney damage secondary to diabetes or heart attack.
- How to prepare for this test?
No special preparations are required for this test. Avoid consuming big amounts of meat and proteins before the test. However, inform your doctor about your complete medical and drug history. Wear a short-sleeved shirt to aid the collection of sample.
- Which medicines might affect my test results?
- Furosemide
- Amphotericin B
- Cephalosporins
- Carbamazepine
- Spironolactone
- Chloramphenicol
- streptomycin
- Methotrexate
- Tetracycline
- Thiazide diuretics
- What other tests are required along BUN to assess my kidney functioning?
- Urinalysis
- Urine protein
- Renal panel
- ACR
- eGFR
- What are the risks of this test?
Collecting blood from a vein is a very easy procedure and pose only minimum risk, including:
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Lightheadedness
- What are the symptoms of a kidney disease?
- Unexplained weight loss
- Decreased appetite
- Shortness of breath
- Swollen ankles, hands, or feet
- Urinary frequency
- Cloudy urine
- Itchy skin
- Increased thirst
- Fatigue
