Kidneys work hard for your health but many Americans don’t consider kidney health until a problem arises. Since early kidney damage often doesn’t have any overt symptoms, knowing how to check kidney health is a key part of maintaining preventive health care.
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We explain exactly how to check kidney health at home, what medical tests doctors order, the early signs to watch for, and when you should seek professional care.
Why Kidney Health Matters
They filter waste and excess fluid from your blood, regulate blood pressure, balance electrolytes, and promote healthy function overall. However, U.S. data shows millions of adults have kidney disease, often without knowing it.
Regular kidney health checks can:
- Detect problems early
- Prevent long-term damage
- Decrease complication risk
- Improve overall health
Signs Your Kidneys May Be Healthy
Although only medical tests can assess kidney function, other signs that may suggest healthy kidneys include:
- Pale yellow or clear urine
- Normal frequency of urination
- Consistent energy levels
- No swelling in the ankles, feet or face
- Normal blood pressure
These signs don’t guarantee healthy kidneys, but they’re generally associated with healthy kidney function.
What Are the Early Signs of Kidney Problems?
Symptoms of kidney disease can be subtle and often go unnoticed. Some of the early signs of kidney disease include changes in urination frequency, foamy or dark urine, ankle, foot, or facial swelling due to fluid retention. Other early signs include fatigue and difficulty concentrating as well as elevated blood pressure with no clear cause.
Though these symptoms don’t necessarily indicate kidney disease, they warrant a visit to a healthcare professional.
How to Check Kidney Health at Home
While you can’t diagnose kidney disease at home, there are some things you can do to check your kidney health, so you can determine whether or when medical tests are necessary.
1. Watch for Changes in Urination
Notice changes in:
- Color
- Frequency
- Foam or bubbles
- Odor
Sudden or ongoing changes may warrant a medical check.
2. Check Your Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is both a cause and a symptom of kidney disease. Monitoring blood pressure at home can help you determine whether you should see a doctor.
3. Watch for Swelling
Fluid retention in the legs, ankles, feet and face can indicate kidney dysfunction.
4. Review Family and Medical History
You may be at higher risk if you:
- Have diabetes
- Have high blood pressure
- Have a family history of kidney disease
- Are over age 60
If any apply, routine kidney health screening is especially important.
Medical Tests Used to Check Kidney Health
Physicians use lab tests and imaging procedures to assess kidney function correctly.
Blood Tests for Kidney Function
Creatinine Test
Assesses blood levels of waste products. High levels can suggest low kidney function.
Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR)
Derived from blood test data to estimate kidney function in filtering blood.
Urine Tests for Kidney Health
Urinalysis
Examines urine for blood, protein, and other abnormalities.
Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (ACR)
Tests for microscopic protein leakage, which can be an early sign of kidney injury.
Imaging Tests
In certain situations, physicians may choose to perform:
- Ultrasound
- CT scan
These tests can determine if there are any obstructions or kidney stones.
Understanding Kidney Test Results
Kidney test results are interpreted together rather than individually. Doctors consider:
- Trends over time
- Overall health
- Age and medical history
An isolated abnormal result does not necessarily mean that a person has kidney disease, which is why follow-up testing may be required.
Who Should Check Kidney Health Regularly
Monitoring kidney health is especially important for those who:
- Have diabetes
- Have high blood pressure
- Have heart disease
- Have a family history of kidney disease
- Are age 60 or older
Healthcare providers often include kidney tests as part of routine annual checkups for higher-risk individuals.
When Should You See a Doctor About Kidney Health?
Visiting a healthcare provider is necessary if a person is experiencing:
- Persistent swelling
- Blood in the urine
- Severe or ongoing fatigue
- Significant changes in urination
- High blood pressure that is difficult to control
Early medical treatment can prevent further kidney damage.
How Often Should You Check Kidney Health?
- Low risk individuals: As part of routine physical exams
- Higher risk individuals: At least once per year or as advised by a healthcare provider
The healthcare provider can direct the frequency of testing based on the patient’s health profile.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to check kidney health is a vital part of preventive medicine, especially since kidney issues often arise without noticeable symptoms. Monitoring for symptoms and undergoing routine medical testing can help protect kidney health and overall well-being.
For those who are concerned about their kidneys or fall into the higher-risk category, the best course of action is to speak with a healthcare provider.
If you have kidney concerns or dietary confusion, consult a healthcare professional. You can also book an online consultation with Medilux Ayurveda, offering personalized kidney-friendly dietary guidance to individuals across all United States cities.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about kidney health.