by Ilse Romahn
(16.08.2022) Even in August, the temperatures can still be sweaty. Typical advice in the heat is: drink a lot! However, this does not apply to everyone. People with kidney diseases, for example, sometimes have to be meticulous about the amount they drink. Laboratory tests show whether the kidneys are fit. If kidney disease already exists, regular check-ups help to keep an eye on kidney performance.
Protein in the urine as a warning sign
The kidneys perform vital functions in the human organism: for example, they filter waste and toxins from the blood, produce hormones that are important for blood formation and regulate the fluid balance. This makes it all the more important to detect kidney diseases at an early stage. The first signs can be symptoms such as high blood pressure, water retention in the legs, around the eyes or all over the body and frequent passing of light-colored urine. Laboratory values such as protein components in the urine and increased levels of endogenous degradation products such as creatinine and urea in the blood also indicate kidney disease. As part of the health check-up, all insured persons over the age of 35 are entitled to a urine strip test for protein in the urine every three years.
Combined blood and urine tests for risk groups
Experts recommend people with special risk factors to have regular examinations for chronic kidney disease. These include people with diabetes, high blood pressure, and patients who need to take medications that strain their kidneys. Using combined blood and urine tests, laboratory physicians can measure the concentration of the proteins cystatin C, albumin and the muscle metabolite creatinine. If there is a reasonable suspicion of illness, the health insurance companies will cover the costs for the tests. If chronic kidney weakness is already present, the kidney values should be checked at least once a year.
The IPF leaflet “Kidney Diseases” contains further information. It can be free at www.vorsorge-online.de downloaded or ordered. Another order option: IPF-Versandservice, Postfach 12 44, 63552 Gelnhausen. Be sure to include title, name and full address.