What is the Urea Test?

The results vary based on age and the general health status of the individuals. In general, the standard value ranges between 6 and 24 mg/dl. 

Higher levels indicate the malfunctioning of the kidneys. However, higher levels may also result from dehydration, urinary tract infection, cardiac attacks, congestive heart failure, etc.

The urea test evaluates the functioning and efficiency of the kidneys. Doctors recommend this test in case of suspected kidney diseases, especially in chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, etc. 

The test also helps diagnose manifestations like urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular diseases, etc.

The test is usually an invasive procedure where professionals collect blood samples from the veins in the arms. They transfer the blood into tubes and vials and send them to the designated laboratories for further analysis. 

You don't need to do any specific preparation before the test. However, fasting before the test is advisable if the doctor prescribes other tests with the urea test.

The predominant symptoms of high urea content or uremia are as under:

• Cognitive dysfunctions
• Loss of appetite
• Increased shortness of breath due to fluid retention
• Nausea and vomiting
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue and itching is also relevant

In severe cases, patients may frequently experience uremic fetor (urine-like odour) in breath or metallic taste in the mouth.

A high urea level in blood or uremia indicates the probability of kidney disorders if left untreated. Severe uremia cases may also lead to loss of consciousness, increased risks of heart attacks, fatigue, etc. Kidney transplants may also damage other organs and ultimately result in liver or heart failure.

The average urea level in the blood is 6 to 24 mg/dl. The creatinine level ranges from 0.9 to 1.3 mg/dl in men and 0.6 to 1.1 mg/dl in women between 18 to 60 years old. The urea or creatinine levels tend to increase with age and the individual's general health status.

The urea breath test detects the Helicobacter pylori bacteria and determines the presence and severity of infection in the system. An equivocal range of ≥ 40U/ml is positive (i.e., the presence of H. pylori). However, a 30.01-39.99 U/ml range is defined as negative, i.e., the absence of H. pylori.

The prominent signs indicating kidney disorders are as under:

• Increased fatigue and tiredness
• Disordered sleeping
• The increased urge of urination
• Rough and itchy skin
• Presence of blood in the urine or foamy urine
• Lack of appetite and muscle cramps

Apart from the abovementioned clinical symptoms, the general health status of individuals and demographic factors like age, gender, and overall lifestyles also influence kidney functioning to a great extent.

Drinking water helps to remove wastes from the blood in the form of urine. It also keeps the blood vessels dilated and open, permeating the free flow of blood in the kidneys. This aspect also helps in the distribution of essential nutrients across the system. 

Women should drink eight 200 ml glasses of water a day, whereas men should drink ten 200ml of water a day for adequate kidney functioning.