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Published on: Apr 22, 2022
3 minute read
By: Second Medic Expert

Kidney Function Test

A kidney function test, also called a renal function test, is a group of tests that help measure how well your kidneys are working. Your kidneys filter wastes and excess fluid from your blood. They also make hormones that help control blood pressure, red blood cell production, and the balance of minerals in your body. To find out how well your kidneys are working, your doctor may order one or more of the following tests:

-A creatinine test measures the level of creatinine in your blood. Creatinine is produced when muscle tissue breaks down. High levels of creatinine may mean that your kidneys are not filtering waste products from your blood as they should.

A kidney function test, also known as a renal function test, is a blood or urine test that is used to measure the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and to determine how well your kidneys are working. Your doctor may order this test if you have signs or symptoms of kidney disease, such as swelling in your ankles or feet, high blood pressure, feeling tired all the time, changes in your urine output or color, and a metallic taste in your mouth.

If you have any questions about this test or why it has been ordered for you, be sure to speak with your doctor. A kidney function test is a blood or urine test that is done to check how well your kidneys are working. Your doctor may order this test if you have any of the following symptoms:

-swelling in your feet, ankles, or hands

-shortness of breath

-rapid weight gain

-blood in your urine

-pain in your side or lower back

If you have one or more of these symptoms, it does not mean you have a problem with your kidneys. However, it is important to find out what is causing them. A kidney function test can help determine whether there is a problem with your kidneys and what type of treatment you may need. A blood test called creatinine is used to estimate kidney function. When the kidneys are not working well, creatinine builds up in the blood. The higher the level of creatinine, the poorer the kidney function. You doctor can order this test to see how well your kidneys are working.

A kidney function test is a blood or urine test to check how well your kidneys are working. Your doctor may order one if you have signs or symptoms of kidney problems, such as swelling in your feet, high blood pressure, or a recent infection. If you have any questions about your results, be sure to discuss them with your doctor. They will be able to explain what the numbers mean and what, if anything, you need to do about them. A kidney function test, also called a renal function test, is a blood or urine test that checks how well your kidneys are working. Your kidneys remove wastes and excess water from your blood and make urine. Your doctor may order a kidney function test if you have signs or symptoms of kidney problems, such as:

-changes in the amount of urine you make

-swelling in your ankles, feet, or hands

-shortness of breath

-fatigue

-nausea or vomiting

-pain in your back or lower abdomen

-headache

If you have any questions about your results, be sure to ask your doctor.

A kidney function test, also called a renal panel or a serum creatinine test, measures the level of creatinine in your blood. Creatinine is produced by the muscles and released into the bloodstream. A high level of creatinine may indicate that your kidneys are not working properly. A kidney function test, also called a renal function test, measures the amount of waste products in your blood and urine.

Waste products in the blood can come from many sources, including the breakdown of red blood cells, the metabolism of protein, and the digestion of food. When your kidneys aren't working properly, these waste products can build up and cause health problems. A kidney function test usually includes a measurement of creatinine in the blood and urine. Creatinine is a waste product that is created when muscle tissue breaks down. It's a good indicator of how well your kidneys are removing wastes from your body. The higher the creatinine level, the less well your kidneys are working.

A kidney function test is a blood test that can help determine how well your kidneys are working. Kidney function tests may be ordered if you have signs or symptoms of kidney disease, such as nausea, vomiting, changes in urine output or color, swelling in the feet or ankles, and shortness of breath. Your doctor may also order a kidney function test if you're taking medications that can affect the kidneys, such as antacids that contain magnesium or aluminum. The results of your kidney function test can help your doctor decide whether you need further testing to diagnose kidney disease and determine the best treatment for you.

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Sleep Disorder Treatment: Effective Ways to Restore Healthy Sleep

Sleep is a fundamental biological process essential for physical restoration, mental clarity and emotional balance. Despite its importance, sleep disorders are increasingly common across all age groups. Millions of people struggle with poor sleep quality, difficulty falling asleep or frequent nighttime awakenings, often without seeking help.

Effective sleep disorder treatment plays a critical role in restoring healthy sleep patterns and preventing long-term health complications.

Understanding Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders are conditions that disrupt normal sleep patterns, affecting the ability to fall asleep, stay asleep or achieve restorative sleep. They can be short-term or chronic and may occur due to lifestyle factors, medical conditions or psychological stress.

According to global and Indian health data, sleep disorders are underdiagnosed despite their strong association with chronic diseases.

Common Types of Sleep Disorders

Insomnia

Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder.

It involves:

difficulty falling asleep
frequent awakenings
early morning waking
non-restorative sleep

Chronic insomnia significantly affects daily functioning.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a serious condition where breathing repeatedly stops during sleep.

Symptoms include:

loud snoring
daytime sleepiness
morning headaches

Untreated sleep apnea increases cardiovascular risk.

Restless Leg Syndrome

This condition causes uncomfortable leg sensations and an urge to move the legs, especially at night.

It disrupts sleep continuity and quality.

Circadian Rhythm Disorders

These occur when the body’s internal clock is misaligned with daily schedules, common in shift workers and frequent travellers.

Why Sleep Disorders Should Not Be Ignored

Chronic sleep problems increase the risk of:

heart disease
hypertension
diabetes
obesity
depression and anxiety
reduced immunity

Poor sleep affects both physical and mental health.

Causes of Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders often result from multiple factors, including:

chronic stress
irregular sleep schedules
excessive screen exposure
caffeine or alcohol use
medical conditions
mental health disorders

Identifying root causes is essential for effective treatment.

Diagnosis of Sleep Disorders

Diagnosis involves:

detailed sleep history
lifestyle assessment
medical evaluation
sleep studies in selected cases

Accurate diagnosis guides appropriate treatment.

Sleep Disorder Treatment Approaches

Behavioural and Cognitive Therapy

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is a highly effective non-drug treatment.

It focuses on:

correcting sleep-related thoughts
improving sleep routines
reducing anxiety around sleep

CBT-I is recommended as first-line treatment for chronic insomnia.

Lifestyle and Sleep Hygiene Measures

Good sleep hygiene includes:

maintaining regular sleep timings
limiting screen exposure before bedtime
creating a comfortable sleep environment
avoiding heavy meals late at night

These measures support natural sleep regulation.

Medical Management

Medications may be used:

short-term for severe symptoms
under medical supervision

Medication is often combined with behavioural therapy rather than used alone.

Treatment for Sleep Apnea

Management may include:

weight management
positional therapy
continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices
treating underlying conditions

Early treatment reduces cardiovascular risk.

Role of Mental Health in Sleep Disorders

Sleep and mental health are closely connected.

Conditions such as anxiety and depression:

disrupt sleep architecture
worsen insomnia
require integrated treatment

Addressing mental health improves sleep outcomes.

Importance of Consistency in Treatment

Sleep disorder treatment requires:

patience
consistency
follow-up

Improvement may take weeks, but sustained effort yields lasting results.

Preventing Sleep Disorders

Preventive strategies include:

stress management
physical activity
balanced nutrition
limiting stimulants
maintaining work-life balance

Prevention is more effective than treatment alone.

Impact of Technology on Sleep

Excessive screen use affects melatonin production and delays sleep onset.

Reducing nighttime screen exposure significantly improves sleep quality.

When to Seek Professional Help

Consult a healthcare provider if:

sleep problems persist beyond two weeks
daytime functioning is affected
snoring and breathing pauses are noticed
sleepiness interferes with safety

Early treatment prevents complications.

Long-Term Benefits of Treating Sleep Disorders

Effective sleep disorder treatment leads to:

improved energy and concentration
better mood and emotional stability
reduced chronic disease risk
enhanced quality of life

Healthy sleep supports overall wellbeing.

Conclusion

Sleep disorder treatment is essential for restoring physical health, mental clarity and emotional balance. While sleep problems are common, they are not normal or harmless. Insomnia, sleep apnea and other sleep disorders can be effectively managed through behavioural therapy, lifestyle changes and medical care when needed. Early recognition and consistent treatment not only improve sleep quality but also protect long-term health. Prioritising sleep is a powerful step toward a healthier and more productive life.

References

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Sleep Health and Lifestyle Studies
World Health Organization (WHO) – Sleep and Mental Health Guidelines
National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) – Sleep Disorders Research
Lancet Psychiatry – Sleep Disorders and Chronic Disease Risk
NITI Aayog – Mental Health and Preventive Healthcare Reports
Statista – Global Sleep Disorder Prevalence and Trends

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