When to Get a Kidney Function Test: Understanding the Risk Factors and Symptoms of Kidney Disease

Timely and routine testing of kidney function is the best way to assess how your kidneys are working and diagnose chronic kidney disease (CKD). Being proactive and taking a kidney function test can ensure your kidneys stay healthy and work longer.

Kidney function tests— aka renal function tests—are easy and quick at Anna Pharmacy in South London. Schedule your blood test for kidney function in Carshalton, Croydon, Sutton, Wallington, or any of our other 15 branches.

If you want to get a better understanding of the risk factors and symptoms of kidney disease, keep reading.

kidney function blood test in Croydon

What is kidney disease?

Kidney disease can affect your body’s ability to control blood pressure, filter excess water from your blood, and clean the blood that flows through your body. It can also slow down vitamin D metabolism that’s needed for strong bones and the production of red blood cells. As a result, excess fluid and waste from blood circulate in the body which can eventually cause health problems, such as heart disease and stroke.

What is a kidney function test?

A kidney function test is done with either a blood or urine test to check how well your kidneys are working to do what they need to do to keep you healthy. Kidney tests usually measure the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) which determines how well your kidneys remove waste from your body. Your GP may prescribe just one or possibly a few different types of kidney function tests to check for kidney disease.

WHO SHOULD GET TESTED FOR KIDNEY DISEASE AND WHEN?

While routine kidney function tests are beneficial for everyone, it's particularly important to get tested annually if you’re at high risk or when you start experiencing kidney problems.

You Should Get Tested If You Are……

At higher risk for kidney disease


Those with conditions such as high blood pressure, lupus, obesity, diabetes, or ureter blockages may be at higher risk. Your weight, family history, and overall health can also affect whether or not you’re at risk. 

Experiencing symptoms of kidney disease

If you have any of the symptoms below your healthcare provider may prescribe a kidney blood test to determine if your kidneys are working properly.

  • Blood in your urine (hematuria).

  • Painful urination (dysuria).

  • Frequent urge to urinate.

  • Problems with starting to pee.

Visit Anna Pharmacy for a kidney function blood test in Croydon, Wallington, Sutton, or Carshalton. Book your appointment online at www.annapharmacy.com.

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