OVERVIEW:
Urea is the final breakdown product of the amino acids. Nitrogen in the form of ammonia is produced in the liver after protein is broken down. The nitrogen combines with the other chemicals in the liver to form the waste product “UREA”. The urea is released into the bloodstream and carried to the kidneys where it is filtered out of the blood and excreted in the urine.
WHY GET TESTED?
- To evaluate kidney function.
- To evaluate protein balance
- To check how the kidneys are functioning before starting any treatment.
- To monitor the effectiveness of dialysis.
- A long term illness caused by kidney disease.
WHAT DOES THE TEST MEASURE?
This test measures the presence of urea in the blood and urine. If the liver is not healthy and working properly, protein breakdown will be decreased. If the kidneys are not healthy and working properly, then urea cannot be filtered. Either of these problems can lead to changes in the amount of urea in the body.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
- How is the test performed?
This test requires both urine and a blood sample. A urine sample of 24 hours is collected and then the blood sample is taken.
- Is there any risk associated with the test?
There is no significant risk associated with this test. A small bruise or mild soreness around the blood test site is common and can last for a few days. Get medical care if the discomfort gets worse or lasts longer.
- What are the signs and symptoms present in a person suffering from kidney disease?
- Fatigue
- Trouble sleeping
- Loss of appetite
- Swelling
- Lower back pain
- High blood pressure
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- What other tests are used to check the proper functioning of the kidneys?
Blood tests are required usually within 48 hours of this test. These tests may include:
- Serum creatinine lab test
- Serum protein-creatinine
- Serum albumin-creatinine ratio
- Kidney x-ray or biopsy is required
INTERPRETATION OF THE RESULT:
High urea levels suggest poor kidney function, could be acute or chronic kidney diseases. However, there are many factors besides kidney disease that can affect urea levels such as:
- Decreased blood flow to the kidneys as in congestive heart failure, shock, stress, recent heart attack or severe burns
- Bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract
- Conditions that obstruct urine flow