• Published on: Apr 22, 2022
  • 3 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

Kidney Function Test

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A kidney function test, also called a renal function test, is a group of tests that help measure how well your kidneys are working. Your kidneys filter wastes and excess fluid from your blood. They also make hormones that help control blood pressure, red blood cell production, and the balance of minerals in your body. To find out how well your kidneys are working, your doctor may order one or more of the following tests:

-A creatinine test measures the level of creatinine in your blood. Creatinine is produced when muscle tissue breaks down. High levels of creatinine may mean that your kidneys are not filtering waste products from your blood as they should.

A kidney function test, also known as a renal function test, is a blood or urine test that is used to measure the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and to determine how well your kidneys are working. Your doctor may order this test if you have signs or symptoms of kidney disease, such as swelling in your ankles or feet, high blood pressure, feeling tired all the time, changes in your urine output or color, and a metallic taste in your mouth.

If you have any questions about this test or why it has been ordered for you, be sure to speak with your doctor. A kidney function test is a blood or urine test that is done to check how well your kidneys are working. Your doctor may order this test if you have any of the following symptoms:

-swelling in your feet, ankles, or hands

-shortness of breath

-rapid weight gain

-blood in your urine

-pain in your side or lower back

If you have one or more of these symptoms, it does not mean you have a problem with your kidneys. However, it is important to find out what is causing them. A kidney function test can help determine whether there is a problem with your kidneys and what type of treatment you may need. A blood test called creatinine is used to estimate kidney function. When the kidneys are not working well, creatinine builds up in the blood. The higher the level of creatinine, the poorer the kidney function. You doctor can order this test to see how well your kidneys are working.

A kidney function test is a blood or urine test to check how well your kidneys are working. Your doctor may order one if you have signs or symptoms of kidney problems, such as swelling in your feet, high blood pressure, or a recent infection. If you have any questions about your results, be sure to discuss them with your doctor. They will be able to explain what the numbers mean and what, if anything, you need to do about them. A kidney function test, also called a renal function test, is a blood or urine test that checks how well your kidneys are working. Your kidneys remove wastes and excess water from your blood and make urine. Your doctor may order a kidney function test if you have signs or symptoms of kidney problems, such as:

-changes in the amount of urine you make

-swelling in your ankles, feet, or hands

-shortness of breath

-fatigue

-nausea or vomiting

-pain in your back or lower abdomen

-headache

If you have any questions about your results, be sure to ask your doctor.

A kidney function test, also called a renal panel or a serum creatinine test, measures the level of creatinine in your blood. Creatinine is produced by the muscles and released into the bloodstream. A high level of creatinine may indicate that your kidneys are not working properly. A kidney function test, also called a renal function test, measures the amount of waste products in your blood and urine.

Waste products in the blood can come from many sources, including the breakdown of red blood cells, the metabolism of protein, and the digestion of food. When your kidneys aren't working properly, these waste products can build up and cause health problems. A kidney function test usually includes a measurement of creatinine in the blood and urine. Creatinine is a waste product that is created when muscle tissue breaks down. It's a good indicator of how well your kidneys are removing wastes from your body. The higher the creatinine level, the less well your kidneys are working.

A kidney function test is a blood test that can help determine how well your kidneys are working. Kidney function tests may be ordered if you have signs or symptoms of kidney disease, such as nausea, vomiting, changes in urine output or color, swelling in the feet or ankles, and shortness of breath. Your doctor may also order a kidney function test if you're taking medications that can affect the kidneys, such as antacids that contain magnesium or aluminum. The results of your kidney function test can help your doctor decide whether you need further testing to diagnose kidney disease and determine the best treatment for you.

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10 Early Signs of Cancer Most Indians Ignore

10 Early Signs of Cancer Most Indians Ignore

Cancer is a growing concern in India, with cases rising due to lifestyle changes, genetic factors, and environmental triggers. Early detection plays a crucial role in successful treatment and recovery. Unfortunately, many people tend to overlook early signs of cancer, mistaking them for minor health issues. In this article, we will discuss 10 early signs of cancer that most Indians ignore, how to detect them early, and essential cancer prevention tips.

1. Unexplained Weight Loss

If you are losing weight without any changes in diet or exercise, it could be a warning sign of cancer. Cancers of the stomach, pancreas, esophagus, and lungs can cause sudden weight loss. If you experience unexplained weight loss of more than 5 kg, consult a doctor immediately.

2. Persistent Fatigue

Feeling excessively tired despite getting enough rest may indicate an underlying health issue, including cancer. Leukemia, colon, and stomach cancers are often linked to extreme fatigue. If fatigue persists without an identifiable reason, it is advisable to get a medical evaluation.

3. Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits

Frequent diarrhea, constipation, or blood in the stool may signal colorectal cancer, while changes in urination patterns may indicate bladder or prostate cancer. If you notice prolonged changes in your bowel or bladder habits, seek medical attention.

4. Non-Healing Sores

A sore that does not heal within a few weeks could be a sign of oral cancer or skin cancer. Smokers and tobacco users should be especially vigilant about mouth ulcers, as they are at higher risk of developing signs of oral cancer.

5. Persistent Cough or Hoarseness

A cough lasting more than three weeks, especially if accompanied by blood, could be a symptom of lung cancer. Hoarseness that persists might be linked to throat or thyroid cancer. How to detect cancer early in such cases involves consulting a specialist if respiratory symptoms do not improve.

6. Lumps or Thickening of Tissue

The presence of lumps in the breast, testicles, or other parts of the body should not be ignored. Common cancer types in India, such as breast and testicular cancer, often present as painless lumps in their early stages. Early medical evaluation can prevent progression.

7. Difficulty Swallowing

Persistent difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, could be an early symptom of throat, esophageal, or stomach cancer. If swallowing problems continue despite dietary adjustments, a medical examination is necessary.

8. Unexplained Bleeding

Unusual bleeding, such as blood in urine, stool, or coughing up blood, is a serious warning sign of cancer. Cervical and endometrial cancers may cause abnormal vaginal bleeding. It is crucial to get tested if such symptoms occur.

9. Skin Changes

Skin abnormalities, such as dark patches, changes in moles, or persistent itching, can be indicators of skin cancer. If a mole grows, changes color, or starts bleeding, it is important to consult a dermatologist immediately.

10. Persistent Pain

Pain that does not go away, especially in the bones or back, can sometimes be an early sign of cancer. While pain alone is not definitive, unexplained or long-lasting pain should be evaluated by a medical professional.

How to Detect Cancer Early

Early detection greatly improves the chances of successful treatment. Here are some tips to catch cancer in its initial stages:

  • Regular Health Check-ups: Routine screenings, such as mammograms, Pap smears, and colonoscopies, help in detecting cancer before symptoms appear.

  • Self-Examinations: Checking for lumps, unusual moles, or changes in bodily functions can help identify potential issues early.

  • Knowing Family History: If there is a family history of cancer, it is advisable to go for genetic counseling and regular screenings.

  • Seeking Medical Attention Promptly: Do not ignore persistent symptoms. Early diagnosis is key to effective treatment.

Cancer Prevention Tips

While cancer cannot always be prevented, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk. Here are some essential cancer prevention tips:

  • Quit Smoking and Tobacco Use: Tobacco consumption is one of the leading causes of signs of oral cancer and lung cancer in India. Avoiding tobacco can drastically reduce your risk.

  • Eat a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports overall health and lowers cancer risk.

  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity increases the risk of several cancers, including breast and colorectal cancer. Regular exercise is key to maintaining a healthy weight.

  • Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake has been linked to liver, breast, and digestive tract cancers. Limiting alcohol can help reduce cancer risk.

  • Protect Yourself from the Sun: Skin cancer can be prevented by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding excessive sun exposure.

  • Get Vaccinated: Vaccinations against Hepatitis B and HPV can prevent liver and cervical cancer, respectively.

  • Avoid Exposure to Carcinogens: Limit exposure to harmful chemicals, such as asbestos and radiation, that are known to cause cancer.

Conclusion

Awareness is the first step toward preventing and detecting cancer early. Ignoring early signs can lead to late-stage diagnosis and reduced treatment success. By understanding these early signs of cancer, following cancer prevention tips, and undergoing regular screenings, individuals can significantly lower their risk. If you experience any of these symptoms, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. How to detect cancer early is crucial knowledge that can save lives.

By staying informed and proactive, we can fight the rising incidence of common cancer types in India and ensure better health outcomes for all.

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