Many of the patients we evaluate for kidney transplant wonder how they could have found out they had kidney disease earlier, or before it progressed to the point that they needed to consider kidney dialysis or transplantation. Chronic kidney disease can happen at any age; however, you may have an increased risk if you:
• have diabetes or high blood pressure;
• have a family history of chronic kidney disease; or
• belong to a population group that has a high rate of diabetes or high blood pressure (African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asians, Pacific Islanders and American Indians).
Which tests can I request at my checkup to make sure my kidneys are healthy?
Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is not only the second most common cause of kidney disease, but it also may occur due to kidney disease. If you have diabetes or kidney disease, a blood pressure target of less than 130/80 is recommended. A blood pressure of 140/90 or higher is called hypertension (high blood pressure). Keeping blood pressure below these numbers will lower risk of kidney disease.
Urinalysis
This test checks a sample of your urine for the presence of any protein or blood cells. These are not normally found in the urine, and could indicate kidney disease. Additional tests can be done to check for protein in urine, including:
• Protein to creatinine ratio – A value of 200 mg/gm or less per day is normal. A value higher than 200 mg/gm is too high.
• Albumin to creatinine ratio – A value of less than 30 mg/gm per day is normal; a value of 30 mg/gm per day or above is high and could be a sign of early kidney disease.
Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)
GFR is estimated from results of a serum (blood) creatinine test. The GFR is the optimal way to check kidney function because it tells you how well your kidneys are working to remove waste from your blood. It is calculated using the serum creatinine and other factors, such as age and gender.
A GFR of 60 or above is normal. A GFR number less than 60 is low and may mean you have kidney disease; however, some people will have a normal GFR in the early stages of kidney disease.
Ask your health care provider about these tests. They should be done once a year to prevent and diagnose kidney disease. Early detection provides more options in treating kidney disease and keeping your kidneys happy and healthy in the New Year!
To find a great doctor who is right for you, please call the Physician Referral Service at 1 (866) 804-1007 Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm.