The kidneys in check: the most important laboratory values

The kidneys filter our blood 24/7 and thus remove « waste » from our body. Various values ​​provide information about whether they do this reliably. One of them is creatinine. This is a degradation product of creatine, which is continuously formed in the body.

Since this degradation product is excreted almost exclusively via the kidneys, an increased creatinine value in the blood is an indication that the kidneys may only work to a limited extent. However, the value is not sufficient to detect kidney weakness early, since it only increases when the kidney function is already reduced by about 50 %.

The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is more likely to help. Usually an estimated value is given in the laboratory finding (EGFR). This value results from various factors such as age, gender and creatinine value in the blood. The protein albumin is a second important whistle whether the kidneys are doing well. This is measured in the urine. Important: Albumin doesn’t actually belong in the urine. If it appears there, this can be a sign of damage to the kidneys, for example through poorly set diabetes.

Both the EGFR and the albumin value help doctors to recognize chronic kidney weakness and to keep an eye on their course. If the EGFR is below 60 milliliters per minute, one speaks of a limited kidney function. A GFR of 60 ml/min then corresponds to about 60 percent kidney performance. With age, this value drops naturally – usually from the age of 40 by about one percent per year. Therefore, it is not unusual if older people have a lower value. However, this does not automatically mean that the kidneys are sick or in need of treatment.

How diabetes and high blood pressure affect the kidneys

People with diabetes or high blood pressure that are poorly set have a particularly high risk of kidney damage. Two things work together for them: the kidney performance decreases a bit anyway – at the same time both diseases damage the fine blood vessels in the kidneys. The result: the kidneys can no longer filter the blood properly.

Then waste fabrics can accumulate in the body, which would normally be excreted by the urine. One of these substances is urea. It can also be determined by taking a blood. It indicates whether there are too many « waste products » in the body. An increased urea value can also be measured if you eat protein kingdom. This is rather unfavorable for already weakened kidneys.

If, for example, high blood pressure or diabetes decreases kidney function, there may also be an increase in potassium in the blood. This increases the risk of cardiac arrhythmias. Other minerals then also get out of balance: if, for example, there is too little calcium in the blood and at the same time too much phosphate, this can weaken the bones in the long term.

More precise view of previous illnesses

If other kidney values ​​already indicate a disturbance, specialists for kidneys take a close look at the urine. The so -called urine sediment is examined under the microscope. Among other things, red and white blood cells and bacteria can be seen. The specialists can even find out where the blood comes from in the urine, whether it comes from the kidney or from the bladder.

Especially people with diabetes or high blood pressure or with family preload should put the kidneys into focus regularly. How often the values ​​should be controlled depends on whether the episode of kidney weakness has already occurred, such as an excessive potassium value in the blood or anemia, or whether the examination only serves for early detection.

If the above values ​​deviate from the standard, the treating doctor will very likely arrange further examinations. In the case of an ultrasound of the kidneys, it can be seen whether the size is normal, cysts or kidney stones have formed or whether the organ is inflamed. Detailed images can still be created with a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This examination can make sense, for example to exclude cancer.

So the kidney remains healthy

Our kidneys are silent heroes. Your hard work can be supported with a number of measures, for example with regular drinking, especially water and unsweetened teas. The amount of drinking can vary. Children don’t have to consume as much fluid as adults. Salt should only be used economically to season because too much blood pressure can drive up. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a maximum of 5 grams (such as a teaspoon).

In addition, well -set blood pressure (below 130/80 mmHg) and a stable blood sugar level helps to prevent kidney damage. Caution should also be taken when taking pain relievers, because non -steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAID) such as ibuprofen or diclofenac can attack the kidneys if used frequently or long -term. Alternative pain therapies should be discussed with a doctor.

A healthy lifestyle also keeps the kidneys fit. Regular movement promotes blood circulation and helps with weight. Finger away from the glow stem: Smoking affects the work of the kidneys and can increase the risk of kidney diseases and kidney cancer.