Urea NitrogenThe small but mighty kidneys are efficient waste removers.
The main function of the kidney is to filter the blood to remove waste products of metabolism and transform this waste into urine. The kidneys are also essential for maintaining the correct salt and water balance in the body, and Important hormones are secreted from the kidney, including renin (controls blood pressure), and erythropoeitin (increases production of red blood cells). The kidneys are also responsible for the activation of vitamin D.
Reduced kidney function results in a buildup of toxins in the body, and can eventually lead to a multitude of symptoms, including muscle cramps, nausea, swollen feet, puffy eyes, lower back pain, high blood pressure, and blood in the urine.
Why consider this test?
90% of those with reduced kidney function or kidney damage do not show any symptoms and are unaware they have kidney disease.- Kidney disease is an under-recognized public health crisis, affecting around 15% of the adult population in the U.S.
- Kidney disease was the 8th leading cause of death in the U.S. in 2019
- Early diagnosis and treatment of reduced kidney function can slow or stop the progression of kidney disease.
Diabetes
High blood pressure
Family history 
Over age 60 
African American, Hispanic, Native American, or Asian ethnicity
Acute injury
