BUN/Creatinine Ratio: Reading Between the Lines
Introduction How this ratio reveals what BUN and creatinine alone cannot tell you. The BUN-to-creatinine ratio is a detective tool. While BUN and creatinine are both kidney function markers, the ratio between them reveals the cause of abnormal values. A high ratio suggests your kidneys are working, but you’re dehydrated. A normal ratio with elevated […]
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN): What It Tells You
Introduction Understanding this kidney function marker and why it matters alongside creatinine. Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) is a breakdown product of protein metabolism. Your body converts proteins into amino acids, which are metabolized, creating urea as a waste product. Your kidneys filter urea from your blood into urine for excretion. When your BUN level is […]
Urine Albumin: An Early Warning for Kidney Damage
Introduction Why this test catches kidney disease years before other markers and what you can do about it. Albumin in your urine is an early warning sign that your kidneys are leaking protein. This happens before kidney function tests like creatinine and eGFR show problems. In healthy people, your glomeruli (filtering units in your kidneys) […]