What is BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) Test? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form down below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is blood urea nitrogen?
Urea nitrogen is a waste product that the human body makes after you eat. The liver breaks the protein particles from the food and in the process of breaking down the protein, blood urea nitrogen is released from the liver and excreted out from the kidneys via urination if the kidneys are functioning normally.
Also Read: uric acid
What is the BUN test?
BUN test is usually done to measure the amount of urea nitrogen present in the blood.
What is the normal value of BUN?
The normal value of BUN varies between 7-20mg/dl.
A value above 60mg/dl presents a higher risk of kidney disease.
Why is it done?
BUN test is usually a routine test done to check if kidneys are functioning normally. BUN is part of a comprehensive metabolic panel or basic metabolic panel blood test.
Why do I need BUN test?
The BUN is usually done to check if you are at higher risk of kidney disease.
Initial changes in kidneys do not show any signs and symptoms but you should check BUN if you have the following condition:
- Family history of kidney problems
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Heart disease
If you have chronic kidney disease you should also get the BUN checked.
The following symptoms can be present in chronic kidney disease:
- Change in the frequency of urination
- Pain in the lumbar region or back
- Change in the colour of urine that can be foamy, dark, bloody or brown
- Fatigue feeling all the time
- Swelling in the body mainly in the ankle, legs, feet arms etc.
- The restlessness of the limbs during sleep.
What does a higher value of BUN indicate?
A Higher range of BUN can occur due to several health problems:
- Obstruction in the urinary tract
- Dehydration
- Congestive heart failure
- Shock
- Burn injuries
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- High intake of protein
What does a low level of BUN indicate?
A low level of BUN means that you have:
- Liver disease
- Malnutrition
- Excessive intake of water
