Kidney Health: Common Concerns and Diagnostic Tests Explained

How are kidney blood and urine tests conducted, and are there any issues to be aware of?

In mid-October, I had blood tests, urine tests, and X-rays done at the nephrology department.
The reports came back normal.

1.
However, I notice that my urine has bubbles that disappear in about a minute.
Is this normal?
2.
Many people say that lower back pain indicates kidney issues.
If there is a problem, would it be severe pain or just mild discomfort? Does the pain need to be located specifically in that area to be a concern? Based on Dr.
Wu's experience, how should I check for this?
3.
If I ask a doctor to perform an ultrasound, is it more accurate than blood tests, urine tests, and X-rays? Would an ultrasound require hospitalization?
My urine test results show protein at 20 mg/dL, RBC at 1.6; 0-2 uL; HPF, WBC at 8.7; 0-2 uL; HPF, and bacteria at 141.5; 1+.
These are my results, and I often work late nights.
Could this lead to high blood pressure? Currently, I do not have issues like nausea, vomiting, or edema.
My grandfather had a history of kidney disease and was on dialysis, so I want to avoid damaging my body at a young age, similar to what happened to him.
I appreciate Dr.
Wu's assistance in answering these questions.
Thank you.

Aqi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/30

Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine

1.
Based on the report you provided, it can only be roughly determined that there is no proteinuria, and it is not possible to fully confirm whether kidney function is normal (as there are no blood test results for creatinine and glomerular filtration rate provided).

2.
Most cases of lower back pain are not caused by the kidneys themselves; unless there are kidney stones or bacterial infections leading to acute inflammation of the kidneys, it is unlikely to experience lower back pain even if kidney function deteriorates.

3.
Ultrasound is used to examine the appearance of the kidneys (such as stones, edema, or cysts) and cannot replace blood and urine tests (which can be arranged in an outpatient setting).

4.
It is recommended to regularly monitor blood pressure, undergo annual blood and urine tests, maintain a regular lifestyle, and control hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia as a means to protect kidney health.
Thank you for your inquiry; the Nephrology Department at Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2015/11/30

More Info

Understanding kidney health is crucial, especially for individuals with a family history of kidney disease or those experiencing symptoms that may indicate underlying issues. Your concerns about urine bubbles, lower back pain, and the effectiveness of diagnostic tests are valid and warrant thorough exploration.

1. Urine Bubbles: The presence of bubbles in urine can be a common occurrence and is not always indicative of a health issue. Bubbles can form due to various reasons, including the speed of urination, the concentration of urine, or the presence of certain substances. However, persistent foamy urine can sometimes suggest proteinuria, which is an abnormal amount of protein in the urine and can be a sign of kidney damage. Since your urine test results indicate a protein level of 20 mg/dL, which is slightly elevated, it would be prudent to monitor this and discuss it further with your healthcare provider.

2. Lower Back Pain: The notion that lower back pain is directly related to kidney health is somewhat misleading. While kidney pain is typically felt in the flank area (the sides of the lower back), not all back pain is kidney-related. Kidney pain is often described as a deep, dull ache that can be accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, nausea, or changes in urination. If the pain is severe and localized, it may warrant further investigation. Light or intermittent pain may not necessarily indicate a kidney issue. It’s essential to consider other factors, such as muscle strain or spinal issues, which are common causes of back pain.

3. Diagnostic Tests: Regarding the effectiveness of ultrasound compared to blood, urine, and X-ray tests, each diagnostic tool serves a different purpose. Blood tests assess kidney function by measuring levels of creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), while urine tests can reveal the presence of protein, blood, or infection. X-rays can help identify kidney stones or structural abnormalities. An ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique that provides real-time images of the kidneys and can detect abnormalities such as cysts, tumors, or obstructions. It does not require hospitalization and is typically performed on an outpatient basis.
4. Lifestyle Factors: Your concern about high blood pressure due to late-night work is also significant. Chronic sleep deprivation and stress can contribute to hypertension, which in turn can affect kidney health. Maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and ensuring adequate sleep are vital for overall health and kidney function. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is advisable, especially given your family history of kidney disease.

5. Family History: Given your grandfather's history of kidney disease, it is wise to be proactive about your kidney health. Regular check-ups, including urine and blood tests, can help catch any potential issues early. If you have concerns about your kidney function or symptoms that persist, don't hesitate to seek further evaluation from a nephrologist.

In summary, while your initial tests appear normal, the presence of bubbles in your urine and your family history warrant continued vigilance. Regular follow-ups, lifestyle modifications, and open communication with your healthcare provider will be essential in maintaining your kidney health and overall well-being.

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