Vital Information: What Your Nephrologist Tracks

The kidneys are a complex part of the body, playing a vital role in maintaining a variety of bodily functions. Nephrologists track a few major pieces of information that determine the kidney function. Since we cannot physically examine the kidneys, lab tests and blood pressure logs are the most vital pieces of information that we need to understand your kidney function. Let’s learn about what these pieces of information are and why they are so important to your kidney care. 

Blood Tests
Since we cannot physically examine the kidneys, we rely on blood tests to determine how the kidneys are actually functioning. There are four (4) main factors that paint a picture of the kidney function:

• Creatinine: waste product and toxin by product from the filtration process 
• eGRF: measurement of how much the kidneys are filtering
• Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN): a waste product produced by the liver from the digestion process, filtered and removed by the kidneys
• Electrolytes: vital to blood pressure and fluid balance

Urine Tests
Since the kidneys create urine, urine tests are another good indicator to help determine kidney function. One of the most important factors included is protein. If protein is present in the urine, it can indicate that the kidneys are not functioning as they should be. One of Dr. Munjal’s analogies for this is as follows: 
    “Think of your kidneys as a coffee filter. It has two jobs: let the coffee through and keep the grounds in. Similarly, kidneys want to get rid of waste, but keep the good things in. We check protein levels in the urine. Protein particles are large and should not be spilling through the filter. High protein levels in the urine are indicative of kidney damage.”

Blood Pressure
A number of factors can contribute to a change in blood pressure such as stress, anxiety, caffeine, medications, sleep, “White Coat Syndrome,” and more. To get the best picture of what your blood pressure is normally, we advise taking readings regularly at home. At home, you are more relaxed and in a familiar environment thus giving us a better understanding of what your day-to-day looks like. This gives Dr. Munjal the ability to make a more informed decision, rather than basing decisions on a single reading that could be altered by the factors listed above. Additionally, by taking readings on a schedule at home, 1-2 hours after medication is taken, we are able to better judge the effectiveness of the medication regimen.

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We request that labs ordered by Dr. Munjal be completed no less than one (1) week prior to your appointment. This, along with a record of regular blood pressure readings, gives us the most accurate picture of your current health status. As always, stay safe and healthy!

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