Why is this procedure done?
The blood urea nitrogen test is also known as a BUN. It is used to check how your kidneys are working. Sometimes, it is used to check a persons general health. A high BUN level can be a sign of kidney problems. High levels may also mean that the body is breaking down too much muscle. You can also have a high BUN when you eat a diet with a lot of protein. The doctor may order this test to: ‚
- Check how well your kidneys are working
- Learn more about other illnesses like diabetes, heart problems, or high blood pressure
- Check on your signs like swelling, problems with passing urine, high blood pressure, or low back pain
- Use along with other tests like a creatinine level
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What will the results be?
- The doctor will look at the results of your test. The doctor will know if you have an illness that needs treatment.
- If the results are normal, it means your kidneys are likely working in a normal way.
- If the results are not normal, you may have a problem with your kidneys.
- Your doctor may order another test. This will help check a result that is not normal or to learn more about a diagnosis.
- The doctor will talk with you about treatment.
What happens before the procedure?
- There are no special things to do before the test.
- Talk to your doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking
- If you have any bleeding problems
What happens during the procedure?
It will only take a few minutes to have this test. You will be awake the whole time. You will have a small amount of blood taken from you with a needle. You may have a small amount of pain. The needle will be taken out and a bandage will be put on your skin. The lab will test your blood to see your BUN level. ‚
What happens after the procedure?
- You may want to sit quietly for a few minutes before standing up. This will help keep you from feeling dizzy after the test.
- Ask your doctor when you will get the results.
What care is needed at home?
You may do your everyday activities when you get back home. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. This test will help your doctor understand if you have a problem with your BUN. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚
What problems could happen?
- Pain
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Feeling dizzy
- Infection
Where can I learn more?
American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/bun/tab/test ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚