BUN Blood Work Lab Test

A blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test measures the level of urea nitrogen in your blood. Urea nitrogen is a waste product that is produced when your liver breaks down proteins and is eliminated from the body through the kidneys. Here are some reasons why you might consider getting a BUN test:

Assess kidney function: Since the kidneys play a crucial role in eliminating urea nitrogen from the body, a BUN test can help assess how well your kidneys are functioning. If your BUN level is high, it may indicate that your kidneys are not working properly.

Diagnose certain medical conditions: Elevated BUN levels can also be a sign of certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease, heart failure, liver disease, or dehydration. A BUN test may be used to help diagnose or monitor these conditions.

Monitor treatment: If you have a known kidney or liver condition, a BUN test can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment and track changes in your condition over time.

Overall, a BUN test can provide important information about your kidney and liver function, and help diagnose or monitor certain medical conditions. If you are experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, or swelling in your legs, or if you have a known kidney or liver condition, your healthcare provider may recommend a BUN test. However, it’s important to remember that a BUN test should be interpreted in the context of other medical information and testing.