Kidney Function Test (KFT) with Electrolytes

The Kidney Function test (KFT) assesses kidney health and function by checking how well your kidneys can clear waste from the body. It is a simple test that screens your blood for a range of parameters which helps in diagnosing kidney diseases, determining the progression of kidney disease, and monitoring the response of kidneys to medications given.

Kidneys play a vital role in the removal of toxins and waste tests from the body and in regulating the fluid and mineral (electrolyte) balance in the body. Kidneys also help produce vitamin D and hormones like erythropoietin (needed to make red blood cells) and renin (which helps in regulating blood pressure). Because of these critical functions, a healthy kidney is essential for your overall well-being.

Since the early stages of kidney disease may not show any symptoms, KFTs are vital for everyone. They help in the early detection and management of potential kidney issues. Especially for individuals with high-risk conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease or a family history of kidney disease, regular Kidney Function testing is crucial.

If you are looking for a KFT test in Bangalore, Orange Health Labs can provide KFT test at the convenience of your home.

Before getting a KFT test at home, it’s essential to be adequately prepared to ensure accurate results. Things to consider before a KFT test are given below:

Prerequisites: KFT does not require any special preparations, however, you may need to follow any specific instructions given by your healthcare provider. For conducting KFT with electrolytes, you may be asked to drink plenty of fluids before the test and refrain from using nicotine.

The best time to get tested: There is no fasting required for the test so it can be taken conveniently at any time during the day.

Eligibility for Kidney Function Test: Kidney Function tests are generally recommended for individuals with symptoms of kidney disease, those with chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension, and people with a family history of kidney issues.

Cautions Before Taking Kidney Function Test: Before getting a KFT test, you must inform your healthcare provider about medicines or any antibiotics that you may be taking. You may be asked to stop taking those medicines if they affect the test results.

KFTs are crucial for evaluating the health and functioning of kidneys. Getting a KFT test may be important for several reasons including the following:

Symptoms of kidney diseases

A KFT may be ordered for symptoms such as blood in urine, difficulty in urinating, pain during urination, and frequent urination that may suggest kidney disease. These tests can identify the presence of kidney disease early, allowing for timely intervention. 1

Health conditions

Certain health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure (hypertension) can impair kidney function. KFT tests become particularly important for regular monitoring in such conditions. The tests allow us to track the impact of these conditions on kidneys as well as manage the treatment.

Electrolyte balance

KFT, often paired with electrolyte panels, is crucial for evaluating kidney health and ensuring the balance of essential minerals such as calcium, sodium, potassium, etc in your body.

Monitoring treatment

KFT can also help in tracking the kidney’s response to treatments for various conditions.

Assessment of disease progression

KFT tests are useful in determining the progression of kidney disease over time.