A kidney function blood test measures how well your kidneys are filtering waste and extra fluid from your blood. It is a simple way to pick up early signs of kidney trouble, often before symptoms appear. NICE guidance recommends kidney function testing for anyone with risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure or a family history of kidney disease. Knowing what the test checks makes it easier to understand your results.
What Is a Kidney Function Blood Test?
A kidney function blood test is a simple blood sample that shows how efficiently your kidneys are removing waste from your body.
The test usually measures:
- Creatinine, a waste product filtered out by the kidneys.
- eGFR, or estimated glomerular filtration rate, which shows how well your kidneys filter blood.
- Urea, another waste product linked to kidney function.
- Electrolytes such as sodium and potassium, which your kidneys help to balance.
Kidney Function Blood Tests: What Do They Check?
A kidney function blood test checks for early signs of chronic kidney disease, as well as kidney damage caused by conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. It can also monitor how certain medications are affecting your kidneys.
NICE’s guideline on chronic kidney disease confirms that blood and urine tests are the main way to detect kidney problems early, since symptoms often do not appear until function has already declined significantly. This is why routine testing matters, even if you feel well.
When Should You Have a Kidney Function Test?
You do not need to feel unwell to have a kidney function test. Many people test their kidney health as part of a general check, particularly if they fall into a higher risk group.
You may be advised to test your kidney function if you have:
- Diabetes, which can gradually damage the kidneys over time.
- High blood pressure, in line with NICE’s guidance on managing hypertension.
- A family history of kidney disease, or unexplained swelling and fatigue.
How Do You Understand Your Kidney Function Test Results?
Your results are usually reported as an eGFR score, alongside your creatinine level. A higher eGFR generally means your kidneys are working well, while a lower score can suggest reduced function.
- Normal function: eGFR of 90 or above.
- Mildly reduced function: eGFR between 60 and 89.
- Moderately reduced function: eGFR between 30 and 59.
- Severely reduced function: eGFR below 30.
What Should You Do If Your Kidney Function Test Results Are Abnormal?
An abnormal result does not automatically mean you have kidney disease. Hydration, certain medications and even recent exercise can affect a one off reading, so it is always worth discussing your result with a pharmacist or GP.
In many cases, a repeat test a few weeks later gives a clearer picture of what is going on. Ongoing monitoring is especially useful if you have diabetes, high blood pressure or another condition linked to kidney health.
Where Can You Get a Private Blood Test in Stoke Poges?
You can get a private blood test in Stoke Poges at Aroga Pharmacy, based nearby in Farnham Common and serving the surrounding area.
Our pharmacists can arrange kidney function testing without the need for a GP referral, with clear results and guidance on what your numbers mean, and what to do next if further monitoring is needed.
Concerned About Your Kidney Health? Book a Private Blood Test with Aroga Pharmacy
If you are worried about your kidney health, or simply want the reassurance of knowing your numbers, it is worth booking a private blood test rather than waiting for symptoms. Aroga Pharmacy offers a private blood test in Stoke Poges and the surrounding area from our Farnham Common pharmacy. Book your consultation with Aroga Pharmacy today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a kidney function blood test?
It is a blood test that measures how well your kidneys are filtering waste and fluid from your body, usually by checking creatinine, eGFR, urea and electrolyte levels.
What do kidney function blood test results show?
They show whether your kidneys are working normally, or whether there are early signs of reduced function that may need further monitoring or a GP review.
How is a kidney function blood test done?
It is done using a small blood sample taken from your arm, which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Do I need to fast before a kidney function blood test?
Not usually, though your pharmacist will confirm this when you book, as some additional tests taken alongside it may require fasting.
How often should I have a kidney function blood test?
This depends on your individual risk factors, but people with diabetes, high blood pressure or a family history of kidney disease are often advised to test annually.
How do I book a private blood test in Stoke Poges?
You can book a private blood test with Aroga Pharmacy, based in Farnham Common and serving Stoke Poges and nearby areas, by phone or through our website.