Question 1

What is Kidney Disorder?

Accepted Answer

Kidney disorder refers to conditions where the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood effectively. It is caused by damage to the nephrons (filtering units), often from diabetes, high blood pressure, or chronic inflammation. The Liver Function Profile is the most important test for kidney disorder diagnosis because it measures albumin levels, which directly indicate the kidneys' filtering capacity.

Question 2

What causes kidney disorder?

Accepted Answer

Kidney disorder is caused by damage to the nephrons, the tiny filtering units inside your kidneys that clean your blood. The most common causes include uncontrolled diabetes (high blood sugar damages blood vessels in the kidneys), chronic high blood pressure (which strains the filtering system), glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney filters), polycystic kidney disease (inherited condition with cysts), and prolonged use of certain medications like NSAIDs. Recurrent kidney infections, autoimmune diseases like lupus, and urinary tract obstructions can also progressively damage kidney tissue and reduce filtering capacity over time.

Question 3

What is the best test for kidney disorder?

Accepted Answer

The Liver Function Profile is the most important test for kidney disorder because it measures albumin levels, a key protein that healthy kidneys should filter efficiently. When your kidneys are damaged, albumin either leaks into your urine (proteinuria) or accumulates abnormally in your blood, signaling impaired filtering capacity. This test provides critical information about how well your kidneys are maintaining protein balance in your body. Additionally, a complete metabolic panel measuring creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels helps assess waste product filtration, while a urinalysis can detect albumin in urine. Together, these tests give a comprehensive picture of kidney function and damage severity.

Question 4

When should I get tested for kidney disorder?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have diabetes or high blood pressure, as these conditions are the leading causes of kidney damage. Get tested immediately if you notice swelling in your ankles, feet, or face, changes in urination patterns (foamy urine, blood in urine, or urinating more at night), persistent fatigue, or loss of appetite. You also need testing if you have a family history of kidney disease, are taking medications that affect the kidneys (like NSAIDs or certain antibiotics), or have autoimmune conditions. Annual kidney function screening is essential for anyone over 60 or with risk factors, as kidney damage often occurs without symptoms until significant function is lost.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of kidney disorder?

Accepted Answer

Kidney disorder symptoms often do not appear until significant damage has occurred. Early signs include fatigue and weakness, difficulty concentrating, and poor appetite. As kidney function declines, you might notice swelling in your ankles, feet, hands, or face due to fluid retention, foamy or bubbly urine from excess protein, blood in the urine (pink or cola-colored), increased urination at night, persistent itching, muscle cramps, shortness of breath from fluid buildup, and high blood pressure that is difficult to control. Some people experience nausea, vomiting, or a metallic taste in their mouth as waste products accumulate in the blood.

Question 6

Who is at risk for kidney disorder?

Accepted Answer

People with diabetes and high blood pressure are at highest risk for developing kidney disorder, as these conditions account for two-thirds of all cases. Other high-risk groups include individuals over age 60, those with a family history of kidney disease, African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, and Pacific Islanders (who have higher genetic predisposition). You are also at increased risk if you have heart disease, obesity, a history of acute kidney injury, autoimmune diseases like lupus, recurrent urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or if you regularly use NSAIDs or other medications that stress the kidneys. Smokers and people with a history of premature birth or low birth weight also face elevated risk.

Question 7

What happens if kidney disorder is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated kidney disorder progressively worsens and can lead to end-stage kidney disease, requiring dialysis or kidney transplant to survive. As kidney function declines, dangerous levels of fluid, electrolytes, and waste products build up in your blood, causing life-threatening complications. You may develop severe anemia, bone disease from mineral imbalances, nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy), cardiovascular disease and heart failure, stroke, weakened immune system with frequent infections, seizures, and fluid accumulation in the lungs (pulmonary edema). The condition also increases your risk of pregnancy complications, irreversible cognitive decline, and significantly reduces life expectancy if kidney function drops below 15 percent of normal capacity.

Question 8

Can kidney disorder be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, kidney disorder can be diagnosed with blood tests that measure how well your kidneys are filtering waste and maintaining protein balance. The Liver Function Profile checks albumin levels to detect abnormal protein handling, while a comprehensive metabolic panel measures creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) to assess waste product removal. Your doctor can calculate your estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) from the creatinine level, which shows what percentage of normal kidney function you have remaining. Blood tests also reveal electrolyte imbalances, anemia, and parathyroid hormone changes associated with kidney damage. While urine tests complement blood work by detecting protein leakage, blood tests alone can diagnose and stage kidney disorder effectively.

Question 9

How is kidney disorder treated?

Accepted Answer

Kidney disorder treatment focuses on slowing progression and managing underlying causes. If you have diabetes, controlling blood sugar with medication and lifestyle changes is critical. High blood pressure requires medications like ACE inhibitors or ARBs that protect kidney function while lowering blood pressure. Your doctor may prescribe medications to manage complications like anemia (erythropoietin), bone disease (phosphate binders, vitamin D), and fluid retention (diuretics). Dietary changes are essential: reducing sodium, limiting protein intake, controlling potassium and phosphorus, and staying hydrated appropriately. As kidney function declines toward end-stage disease, you will need dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) or kidney transplant evaluation to replace lost kidney function and sustain life.

Question 10

How can I prevent kidney disorder?

Accepted Answer

You can prevent kidney disorder by controlling diabetes and high blood pressure through medication, diet, and regular monitoring. Maintain a healthy weight through balanced eating and regular exercise, as obesity increases kidney disease risk. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, both of which damage blood vessels and kidney tissue. Limit use of over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen and naproxen, which can harm kidneys with prolonged use. Stay well-hydrated by drinking adequate water daily, but avoid excessive intake. Follow a kidney-friendly diet low in sodium and processed foods. Get regular health screenings if you have risk factors, and work with your doctor to manage any chronic conditions that affect kidney health before damage occurs.

Question 11

What can I do at home for kidney disorder?

Accepted Answer

At home, you can support kidney health by following a low-sodium diet (less than 2,300 mg daily) to reduce blood pressure and fluid retention, and limiting foods high in phosphorus and potassium if your doctor recommends. Stay physically active with moderate exercise like walking 30 minutes most days to improve blood pressure and blood sugar control. Monitor your blood pressure and blood glucose regularly if you have diabetes or hypertension. Drink adequate water throughout the day unless your doctor restricts fluids. Avoid herbal supplements and remedies without medical approval, as many can harm kidneys. Get adequate sleep, manage stress through relaxation techniques, and keep all medical appointments to monitor kidney function and adjust treatments as needed.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Kidney Disorder Blood Test

What is Kidney Disorder?

What causes kidney disorder?

What is the best test for kidney disorder?

When should I get tested for kidney disorder?

References

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