Why Your Doctor Cares About Your Kidney Numbers
Kidney problems are notoriously quiet in their early stages — many people feel completely normal until function has already declined significantly. That’s exactly why a blood test, rather than symptoms, is the reliable way to check.
A Kidney Function Panel measures creatinine and BUN, two waste products your kidneys are supposed to filter out, along with electrolytes, calcium, and an estimated filtration rate (eGFR) that gives a rough sense of how well your kidneys are working overall.
Who typically checks this
- People with high blood pressure or diabetes, both of which put extra strain on the kidneys over time
- Anyone taking a medication that can affect kidney function
- A family history of kidney disease
- General peace of mind as part of a broader checkup
What to expect
Fast for 8 to 12 hours beforehand. Your results include the eGFR calculation automatically.
Ready to order? The Kidney Function Panel is $34 at SelectATest, with results in your own secure online portal.
This post is for general information and does not replace advice from your own doctor. Tests are ordered by an independent licensed physician, and results are not a diagnosis. If you are having a medical emergency, call 911.