Chronic Kidney Disease: How Do You Detect Them?

Kidney diseases, although very common, usually don’t show symptoms in their early stages, and when they do, it is usually already too late and dialysis/transplant are the only

two treatment options left for the patient. 

Hence, indicative/diagnostic tests are the only way to detect critical kidney-related illnesses or signs of kidney failure (if any).

One should get routine tests done on a periodic basis if they already have the following health problems: 

- High blood pressure

- Family history of kidney failure 

- Heart diseases 

- Diabetes 

For diabetic patients, it’s recommended to get a kidney test done every 12 months.

However, those with heart diseases and / or family tendencies of kidney problems must consult their healthcare provider/family doctor on a regular basis, because, just like any other

critical ailments, CKD too can be treated better if the detection is done at an early stage.  

What are the different tests that doctors generally conduct to detect anomalies in kidney function?

There are majorly two kinds of tests that are conducted: 

Blood Test: To detect and identify any difficulties that the kidneys might be facing while filtering the blood. This test is also called GFR (Glomerular Filtration Rate).

Urine Test: This test is typically used to check for the presence of albumin, a protein that passes into the urine in case the kidneys are malfunctioning. 

GFR Test Metrics: 

A GFR greater than or equal to 60 is normal. 

A GFR lesser than 60 might be an indication that your kidneys need diagnosis. 

A GFR lesser than 15 exposes you to the risks of kidney failure, and also means that immediate treatment is required.  

Albumin Test: 

Dipstick Test: This is a test where the clinician takes a urine sample and uses a strip of a chemically-treated paper. If the presence of albumin is detected, the paper changes colour.

Albumin to Creatinine Ratio: This test is performed to determine the level of albumin present, and a result of 30 mg/g or less is normal; more than 30 mg/g may be a sign of kidney disease.

Today, with the vast advancements in medicine and medical technology, doctors have a number of effective tests/procedures at their disposal to detect the presence of CKD or Chronic Kidney Disease in people, This, in turn, allows them to diagnose a proper treatment plan to the patient to ensure his complete cure and speedy recovery.