Question 1

What is Chronic Kidney Disease?

Accepted Answer

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste products and excess fluid from the blood. It is caused by damage to the nephrons (kidney filtering units) from conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or glomerulonephritis. The Creatinine Serum test is the most important test for CKD diagnosis because it measures waste buildup and calculates eGFR to stage kidney function decline.

Question 2

What causes Chronic Kidney Disease?

Accepted Answer

Chronic Kidney Disease is caused by damage to the nephrons, the tiny filtering units inside your kidneys that remove waste from your blood. Diabetes and high blood pressure are the two most common causes, accounting for about two-thirds of all CKD cases. Other causes include glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney filters), polycystic kidney disease, prolonged urinary tract obstruction, recurrent kidney infections, and long-term use of certain medications like NSAIDs. Once nephrons are damaged, they cannot repair themselves, and the remaining healthy nephrons must work harder, which can lead to further kidney damage over time.

Question 3

What is the best test for Chronic Kidney Disease?

Accepted Answer

The Creatinine Serum test is the most important test for Chronic Kidney Disease because it measures creatinine levels in your blood and calculates your eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate), which is the gold standard for diagnosing and staging CKD. When your kidneys are damaged, creatinine (a waste product from muscle metabolism) builds up in your blood instead of being filtered out. The eGFR calculation tells doctors exactly how well your kidneys are filtering waste, with lower numbers indicating more advanced kidney disease. The Kidney Function Profile is also essential as it provides comprehensive kidney markers including eGFR, BUN, and electrolytes. For early detection, the Microalbumin Random Urine with Creatinine test detects protein leakage into urine before significant kidney function decline occurs, making it valuable for catching CKD in its earliest stages.

Question 4

When should I get tested for Chronic Kidney Disease?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or a family history of kidney disease, as these are the biggest risk factors for CKD. Get tested immediately if you notice foamy or bubbly urine (indicating protein in urine), swelling in your ankles or feet, persistent fatigue, trouble concentrating, poor appetite, trouble sleeping, or more frequent urination especially at night. People over 60, those with obesity, and individuals who have had recurrent urinary tract infections should also get regular kidney function screening. Because CKD often develops silently without noticeable symptoms until advanced stages, annual testing is recommended for anyone with risk factors even if they feel completely healthy.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease?

Accepted Answer

Early-stage Chronic Kidney Disease usually causes no symptoms, which is why blood testing is so important for detection. As kidney function declines, you might experience fatigue and weakness, loss of appetite, difficulty concentrating or mental fogginess, trouble sleeping, muscle cramping especially at night, swollen feet and ankles, puffy eyes especially in the morning, dry and itchy skin, and more frequent urination particularly at night. Advanced CKD can cause nausea and vomiting, shortness of breath, chest pain if fluid builds up around the heart, high blood pressure that is difficult to control, and foamy or bubbly urine indicating protein leakage. Many people do not realize they have kidney disease until it has progressed significantly, making routine screening essential for those at risk.

Question 6

Who is at risk for Chronic Kidney Disease?

Accepted Answer

People with diabetes are at the highest risk for CKD, as high blood sugar damages the kidney filters over time. Those with high blood pressure are also at major risk because elevated pressure damages blood vessels in the kidneys. Other high-risk groups include people over age 60, individuals with heart disease or a history of heart attack or stroke, those with a family history of kidney disease, people with obesity, smokers, and individuals who have had recurrent kidney infections or urinary tract problems. African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, and Asian Americans face higher risk due to increased rates of diabetes and high blood pressure in these populations. Long-term use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen also increases kidney disease risk.

Question 7

What happens if Chronic Kidney Disease is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated Chronic Kidney Disease progresses through five stages, eventually leading to kidney failure (end-stage renal disease) where the kidneys can no longer sustain life without dialysis or kidney transplant. As CKD advances, dangerous waste products and fluid build up in your body, causing severe complications including life-threatening heart disease and stroke (the leading cause of death in CKD patients), severe anemia causing extreme fatigue and weakness, bone disease and fractures due to mineral imbalances, fluid accumulation in the lungs making breathing difficult, dangerous potassium levels that can cause irregular heartbeat or cardiac arrest, and weakened immune system increasing infection risk. CKD also increases the risk of developing gout, nerve damage, liver problems, and significantly reduces life expectancy. Early detection and treatment can slow or even halt progression, making testing crucial for anyone at risk.

Question 8

Can Chronic Kidney Disease be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Chronic Kidney Disease is primarily diagnosed through blood tests that measure how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood. The Creatinine Serum test is the cornerstone of CKD diagnosis because it measures creatinine levels and calculates your eGFR, which directly shows your kidney filtering capacity. Blood tests also measure BUN (blood urea nitrogen), another waste product that builds up when kidneys fail, as well as electrolytes like potassium and phosphorus that become imbalanced in kidney disease. While urine tests (like the Microalbumin test) complement blood work by detecting early kidney damage through protein leakage, blood tests remain the primary diagnostic tool. The eGFR calculated from blood creatinine is used to stage CKD from Stage 1 (mild damage with normal filtration) to Stage 5 (kidney failure), making blood testing essential for both diagnosis and ongoing monitoring.

Question 9

How is Chronic Kidney Disease treated?

Accepted Answer

Chronic Kidney Disease treatment focuses on slowing progression and managing complications since kidney damage cannot be reversed. If you have diabetes or high blood pressure (the main causes), controlling these conditions with medications like ACE inhibitors or ARBs is critical to protecting remaining kidney function. Your doctor will prescribe medications to manage complications such as phosphate binders to control mineral levels, erythropoietin-stimulating agents for anemia, vitamin D supplements, blood pressure medications, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and diuretics to reduce fluid buildup. Dietary changes are essential, including limiting protein, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus based on your CKD stage. As kidney function declines toward failure, you will need preparation for dialysis or kidney transplant evaluation. Regular blood testing to monitor kidney function, electrolytes, and related markers is crucial throughout treatment to adjust medications and slow disease progression.

Question 10

How can I prevent Chronic Kidney Disease?

Accepted Answer

Preventing Chronic Kidney Disease centers on controlling the two biggest risk factors: diabetes and high blood pressure. If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar in target range through medication, diet, and regular monitoring. Control your blood pressure below 130/80 through lifestyle changes and medication if needed. Maintain a healthy weight through regular physical activity and balanced diet, as obesity increases CKD risk significantly. Quit smoking, which damages blood vessels in the kidneys and accelerates disease progression. Avoid long-term use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen, which can damage kidneys over time. Stay hydrated with water rather than sugary drinks. Limit salt intake to reduce blood pressure. Get regular kidney function blood tests if you have risk factors, as early detection allows intervention before significant damage occurs. Managing heart disease and following medication instructions carefully also protects kidney health.

Question 11

What can I do at home to support kidney health with Chronic Kidney Disease?

Accepted Answer

Supporting kidney health at home starts with following a kidney-friendly diet that limits sodium to reduce fluid retention and blood pressure, restricts protein to decrease waste buildup your kidneys must filter, and controls potassium and phosphorus based on your blood test results. Drink adequate fluids unless your doctor restricts fluid intake in advanced stages. Monitor your blood pressure daily at home and keep a log to share with your doctor. Stay physically active within your energy limits, as exercise helps control blood pressure, blood sugar, and weight. Track your medications carefully and take them exactly as prescribed, especially blood pressure and diabetes medications. Avoid herbal supplements and over-the-counter medications without consulting your doctor, as many can harm kidneys. Limit alcohol consumption and quit smoking. Get adequate sleep and manage stress through relaxation techniques. Most importantly, get regular blood tests to monitor your kidney function and catch any decline early so treatment can be adjusted promptly.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Chronic Kidney Disease Blood Test

What is Chronic Kidney Disease?

What causes Chronic Kidney Disease?

What is the best test for Chronic Kidney Disease?

When should I get tested for Chronic Kidney Disease?

References

Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.

Us vs. Them

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say

Ask Me Anything