The urea and electrolytes (U&E) blood test provides vital information about kidney function and the body's mineral balance. Here's what it measures and why it’s essential:
- Urea: Produced when the liver breaks down proteins, urea is filtered out by the kidneys. Elevated levels may indicate kidney dysfunction, dehydration, or a high-protein diet. Low levels could suggest liver disease or malnutrition.
- Electrolytes: This test also evaluates key electrolytes, including:
- Sodium (Na): Essential for fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle activity. High sodium levels can indicate dehydration, while low levels may be linked to overhydration or certain medications.
- Potassium (K): Important for heart and muscle function. Abnormal potassium levels can cause dangerous heart problems.
- Chloride (Cl): Helps maintain the body’s acid-base balance. Imbalances often accompany shifts in sodium levels.
- Interpretation of Results:
- High Urea: May indicate kidney disease, dehydration, or increased protein breakdown.
- Low Urea: Often seen in liver disease, malnutrition, or low-protein diets.
- Electrolyte Imbalance: Can result from dehydration, heart failure, or kidney disease, and may cause symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, or irregular heartbeat.
Regular monitoring through a U&E test helps track kidney function and overall metabolic health, making it an essential part of routine health check-ups, especially for people with chronic conditions or those on certain medications.
Recommended Tests:
- Creatinine Test
Often paired with urea measurement, this test assesses kidney function more thoroughly by measuring waste product levels from muscle metabolism.
Creatinine Test - Electrolyte Panel
A broader test focusing on the balance of electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and chloride, helping to identify imbalances affecting kidney and heart health.
Electrolyte Panel
