The Importance of Blood Tests in Evaluating Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are a common problem these days, with people of all ages suffering from them. Although it is believed that the stones are formed due to an excessive amount of calcium in our body, there are many other factors that contribute to their formation. The severity of the problem can only be determined by conducting proper tests and evaluations. One such test is a blood test, which is considered crucial in evaluating kidney stones.
Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR): One of the most significant benefits of a blood test is that it can determine the Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR). GFR is used to measure the level of kidney function, and a low GFR indicates that the kidneys are malfunctioning. This test is vital because it helps in the diagnosis and evaluation of chronic kidney issues, including kidney stones.
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) level: Another important factor that can be measured through a blood test is Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) level. This test measures the amount of nitrogen waste that is in the blood. Kidneys’ main function is to remove unnecessary nitrogen waste from the blood, and if the BUN level is high, it can indicate that the kidneys are not working efficiently. High BUN levels are usually associated with kidney stones and can be treated accordingly.
Creatinine level: Creatinine is a waste product generated by the muscles from creatine, which is an essential protein that supplies energy to our muscles. A blood test that measures the creatinine level can determine the kidney's ability to remove waste and toxins from the body. High creatinine levels are usually associated with kidney problems, including kidney stones, and can indicate the need for immediate medical attention.
Calcium and Phosphorus levels: Calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood are usually affected by kidney stones, and this can be assessed through a blood test. High calcium levels in the blood can indicate a high risk of kidney stone formation, while high phosphorus levels can indicate reduced kidney function. A blood test can determine the proper balance of calcium and phosphorus levels, and medications or dietary changes can be prescribed accordingly.
Red and white blood cell count: A complete blood count (CBC) is another blood test that can be conducted to evaluate kidney stones. This test can determine the number of red and white blood cells in the blood, which can indicate severe complications related to the kidney. A low red blood cell count can indicate anemia or other related complications, while a high white blood cell count can indicate an infection in the kidney, which can lead to sepsis.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, blood tests play a crucial role in the evaluation of kidney stones, as they can help determine kidney function and the severity of the problem. By providing helpful information about a patient’s creatinine, phosphorus, calcium, red and white blood cell counts, a blood test can help identify any complications associated with kidney stones, and immediate medical attention can be given. It's essential to schedule regular visits with your doctor and undergo proper testing to assess your kidney function regularly. This way, kidney stones can be diagnosed and treated promptly, leading to a better quality of life.
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