HomeAnswersUrologyblood urea nitrogenI had a blood test to rule out rheumatoid arthritis and found altered urea and BUN levels. I am concerned that my kidneys are affected. Kindly suggest.

What causes alterations in the levels of blood urea and BUN levels?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At August 1, 2023
Reviewed AtSeptember 4, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I just had my routine blood test with Rh factor to rule out rheumatoid arthritis. I am taking Diclofenac for the last two months due to uric acid and gout pain. My Rh factor is okay, but my urea is 43, and my BUN is 20. Are the levels high? I am concerned if I am suffering from a kidney problem.

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Madhav Tiwari

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern. Levels of urea and BUN on their own (if elevated) do not have too much significance. From the reports (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity) creatinine levels are 0.91 which is within normal limits. Levels of GFR (glomerular filtration rate) are also within normal. Based on the values, there is nothing to be concerned about with your kidneys. But, excessive Diclofenac, in the long run, will not be good for your kidney. I suggest you get an ultrasound of the kidney, ureter, and bladder to be on the safer side.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for the reply,

I want to know if high urea levels can be caused due to dehydration.

Kindly suggest.

Answered by Dr. Madhav Tiwari

Hello,

Glad to have you back!

I am here to help you get the best medical advice. Yes, dehydration can cause both urea and creatinine to rise. Please be assured, I do not think anything is wrong with the kidneys in the functional aspect by looking at the reports. If there are stones, cysts, etc., in the kidney, they cannot be detected by the blood test, and hence follow my previous advice and get an ultrasound done.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for the response,

I understand and want to know if high urea and BUN can be caused due to stones or cysts.

Answered by Dr. Madhav Tiwari

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Based on the blood test (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity) - your kidneys appear to be functionally okay. An ultrasound scan can rule out the presence of stones, cysts, etc., in the kidney. Stones can have an impact on urea levels if they obstruct the urine flow. However in your case, the creatinine is normal, so blockage cannot be expected. Getting an ultrasound is to make sure the kidneys are fine.

I hope this has helped.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Madhav Tiwari
Dr. Madhav Tiwari

General Surgery

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Urology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy