Medical abbreviation:
UEC, BUN
Type:
Blood tests
Definition:
Urea (aka BUN – blood urea nitrogen) is used as a measure of your hydration status and kidney function. The term electrolytes, refers to the concentration of sodium and potassium in the blood stream. Creatinine is a break down product of creatine, which is used as an energy source in muscle tissue. Creatinine levels are used as a measure to assess how well the kidneys are working. Males tend to have slighter higher creatinine levels than women, as on average men have greater muscle mass than women.
When would I need this test?
Your doctor may request this test when there are concerns about your kidney function, this may present with decreased urine production, or swelling of various parts of the body (legs and abdomen). The test is often performed in dialysis patients to assess therapy. Your doctor may also be interested in knowing the concentration of potassium in your blood stream, if you are on certain medications or are experiencing palpitations and or muscle weakness. Fluctuation in levels of sodium may cause generalised weakness and confusion, levels are often checked when there are concerns about dehydration, or when patients are on diuretics which can affect levels of both sodium and potassium.
