Urea And Creatinine

A blood urea and serum creatinine test comprises two different tests to check the function of the kidneys. These two substances, urea and creatinine, are waste products produced as a result of the body's metabolism. Typically, urea and creatinine dissolve in the blood and your kidneys filter them and excrete them out through urine. However, in kidney disease, the levels of both these by-products will increase in the blood, as the kidneys will be unable to filter them. 

Abnormal urea and creatinine levels in the blood are a sign of acute or chronic kidney disease. Your doctor will advise further tests to evaluate for the cause of this and the kind of kidney disease you might be having.

At Apollo 24|7, you can find the complete urea creatinine test price details with the procedure. A single package includes a blood urea test and a serum creatinine test. Altogether, these two tests are also called BUN creatinine tests.

Your doctor may prescribe a creatinine test and BUN test for various conditions such as:

• Unusual swelling in face, hands, legs, and abdomen
• Distinct puffiness around the eyes, especially in the upper eyelids       
• Hypertension and diabetes
• Constant fatigue and sleeplessness
• Painful urination with decreased urine output 
• Blood in Urine

Medically reviewed by Dr Shakti, General Physician/Internal Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi

Frequently asked questions

How is the blood sample taken?

To take the blood sample, a tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is asked to make a fist. This helps in the buildup of blood filling the veins and it becomes easy to collect the blood. The skin is cleaned before inserting the needle in the vein in order to prevent bacteria from entering. The needle is then inserted into the vein in the arm and the blood sample is collected in the vacutainer.

What other tests can be advised along with the urea test?

Other tests which can be advised along with urea test include creatinine test, electrolyte tests such as sodium, potassium, or calcium test to understand the functioning of kidneys.

What factors can increase the levels of urea?

Increasing age and a high protein diet can increase the levels of urea.

What are the signs and symptoms of kidney disease?

The signs and symptoms of kidney dysfunction include fatigue, lack of concentration, poor appetite, difficulty in sleeping, swelling or puffiness around the eyes or in the face, wrists, abdomen, thighs, or ankles; foamy, bloody, or coffee-colored urine, decrease in the amount of urine, burning sensation while urinating, abnormal discharge during urination, or a change in the frequency of urination, especially at night; pain in mid-back, below the ribs, near the location of kidneys, and high blood pressure.

What other tests can be used to assess kidney function?

The other tests which can be used to assess kidney function include Urinalysis, Urine protein, and Creatinine clearance.

Which conditions can cause an increase in levels of creatinine?

The conditions which can cause an increase in levels of creatinine include damage or swelling of blood vessels in the kidneys caused due to infection or autoimmune diseases, bacterial infection of the kidneys, death of cells in the kidneys, conditions that can block the flow of urine in urinary tract like kidney stone or prostate disease, and reduced blood flow to the kidney which can be due to shock, congestive heart failure, dehydration, atherosclerosis, or complications of diabetes.

Should I inform my doctor if I am taking any medicines?

Yes, please inform your doctor if you are taking any medicines or supplements as it might interfere with the test results.

What are the kidney problems related to abnormal creatinine test results?

Abnormal results of the urea creatinine test can be due to conditions like glomerulonephritis (inflammation in kidneys), blockage due to kidney stones or enlarged prostate. Some other problems might include severe infections, leading to sepsis, dehydration, heart failure, and damage due to increased intake of certain medications like painkillers, for example, Ibuprofen, Voveran, or due to intake of OTC (over-the-counter) herbal products or supplements.

Can diet affect the level of urea and creatinine in blood?

Consuming processed meat or a high protein non-vegetarian diet can increase urea and creatinine levels in your blood. People building muscle mass and taking unregulated protein or whey protein supplements may have high creatinine levels in their blood.

How should I prepare for the urea creatinine test?

The procedure for the urea creatinine test is simple, and you will find that the urea creatinine test price is highly affordable in Apollo 24

Are there any diet restrictions before taking the test?

7. Venous blood is used as a sample for the test, and it takes less than 5 minutes to complete the procedure. However, it is essential to inform your physician if you are taking any over-the-counter drugs. Also, you should avoid strenuous physical activity or exercise for 24-48 hours before the test.

What does low urea creatinine level indicate?

Your physician might ask you to avoid the consumption of red meat before taking the test. However, if your consumption is regular, then the levels still might show up as high.