Kidney Issues

[Aysh666]

Has anyone tried/tested any home tests for poss kidney infections/function??

[Luisa22]

I don't know if this is quite what you mean, but the usual dipsticks for testing urine can give some indications about kidney and urinary function ( the leukocyte area of the strip which is usually right at the top, which can show any sign of urinary infection, and the urinary protein level which is usually second on the strip.)

My own doctor a while ago was happy to accept my results on a home test dipstick. But do it according to the instructions strictly and make sure you keep the dipsticks sealed until using them, and that they're in date.

However, do watch out. I had a dog once who showed some symptoms (drinking more and peeing more) though she seemed very well in herself. I bought some good quality dipsticks and tested her urine. It registered normal every time, even specific gravity seemed fine.

Her symptoms increased over a couple of weeks, and the test kept saying all was well. But I wasn't convinced, and took her for a blood test instead. That revealed she had very early stage kidney failure, which was soon remedied with diet and some medication. Her blood values came right back to normal. But I'm glad I didn't just rely on the urine tests. Even the vet had been inclined to leave things when he ran a urine test, but I insisted on blood testing.

[userotc]

We quite regularly test my mum's urine for infection at home using urinalysis strips which can detect a urinary tract or kidney infection. But I dont see how it can differentiate between bladder and kidney although symptoms probably do with kidney infection development more serious.

Whilst it may not be very accurate, as the test is time-sensitive, and doctors do cultures which can determine the most appropriate antibiotic, we have been able in the past to remove the infection without a/bios though that likely depends on the level of infection.

For kidney function, a blood test is needed.

medicinenet.com/urinalysis/...

[Misspomfrey]

Hello

If I was you I wouldn't bother with these home tests, go and get a proper blood test at your surgery. I did one for Ferritin a few weeks ago and it clearly showed abnormal, which I thought could be right as I'd been tired and I do have to keep an eye on things with being mostly vegetarian and a limited diet due to IBS. So I had a Full Blood Count including kidneys, plus lots of extra stuff was tested and everything was completely normal, nothing wrong with my Ferritin levels, so the test was a waste of money.

[xjrs in reply to Misspomfrey]

Indeed, it is amazing what you can have done through your GP surgery via the NHS. You can also ask for your full blood record so you can see the results yourself. No need to buy private tests if you are in the UK.