Blood Urea Nitrogen Test (BUN Test)

What does the BUN Test measure?

BUN reflects the nitrogen portion of urea, a waste product formed in the liver and excreted by kidneys:

• Kidney function: How effectively your kidneys filter waste from your blood
• Protein metabolism: How well your body breaks down proteins from food
• Hydration status: Whether you have proper fluid balance in your body
• Liver function: Since your liver produces urea from protein breakdown
• Treatment monitoring: Progress of kidney disease treatments, like dialysis

BUN Test: Who Needs It and Why It's Done

What symptoms may call for a BUN test?

Your doctor may recommend a BUN blood test if you experience any of these symptoms that could indicate kidney problems:

• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Changes in urine colour, amount, or appearance (bloody, foamy, or dark)
• Painful or burning sensation during urination
• Swelling in hands, feet, ankles, face, or around the eyes
• Unexplained tiredness and weakness
• High blood pressure that's difficult to control
• Loss of appetite and nausea
• Difficulty concentrating or confusion

Who should get a BUN test?

Several groups of people benefit from regular BUN test monitoring:

• People with symptoms: Anyone experiencing the kidney-related symptoms mentioned above
• High-risk individuals: Those with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or a family history of kidney problems
• Medication monitoring: Patients taking medicines that could affect kidney function
• Routine health checks: As part of comprehensive health screenings and full body checkups.
• Existing kidney patients: People with known kidney disease requiring regular monitoring

Why is a BUN test done?

A BUN blood test is performed to screen for kidney disorders, monitor kidney function in patients with known kidney disease, and evaluate your body's protein metabolism and hydration status.

Importance of a BUN Test

The BUN blood test plays a crucial role in maintaining your kidney health and overall well-being. This simple blood test serves as an early warning system for potential kidney problems, allowing doctors to detect issues before serious symptoms develop.

For people with existing health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, regular test results help monitor how these conditions affect kidney function over time. The test is also essential for patients undergoing dialysis, as it helps doctors assess treatment effectiveness and make necessary adjustments to ensure optimal care and avoid health risks.

BUN Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare India

How to book a BUN test?

1. Simple Online Booking
   Booking can be done through the Metropolis Healthcare App or website. Select the BUN Test, choose a convenient time slot, and provide your address for a blood test at home. You can also visit the nearest Metropolis Lab if you prefer to give the sample directly at the lab.
2. Safe Home Sample Collection
   Our trained phlebotomists ensure timely collection of your sample while strictly following all safety and hygiene protocols.
3. Sample Tracking Updates
   Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website.
4. Accurate Laboratory Testing
   Your sample is processed at our NABL & CAP-accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results.
5. Quick & Easy Reports
   Receive your test reports promptly via email, WhatsApp, or by downloading them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app.

Is home sample collection for the BUN test available near you?

Yes, home blood sample collection is available for BUN testing. Our trained phlebotomists visit your doorstep at your preferred time, ensuring safe and hygienic sample collection. Metropolis Healthcare's convenient service eliminates the need to visit a pathology lab, making it easier for you to prioritise your health.

How long does it take to get a BUN test report?

Reports are usually available after 4 hours once the sample reaches the lab.

Note: Reporting time and cost may vary depending on your location.

Where can I see or get BUN test results?

Test results from Metropolis Healthcare can be accessed through multiple convenient channels. You can log in to the Metropolis website using your credentials or use the Metropolis Healthcare App to view and download your reports. Additionally, test reports are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you also have the option to collect a physical copy directly from the lab.

Interpreting BUN Test Results

What your BUN test results may indicate

The table below shows the normal range for test results and what high or low values might indicate:

Conditions that May Affect BUN Test Accuracy

Several factors can influence your test results and should be discussed with your doctor:

• Dehydration can concentrate blood substances, leading to elevated BUN levels.
• High-protein diet or recent consumption of protein-rich foods may temporarily increase results.
• Certain medications, including antibiotics, steroids, and blood pressure medicines, can affect readings.
• Kidney disease may cause consistently elevated BUN levels requiring monitoring.
• Liver problems can lead to lower-than-normal BUN production.
• Heart failure may reduce kidney blood flow, affecting BUN clearance.
• Recent illness or stress can temporarily alter kidney function and BUN levels.

How is a BUN Test Done?

The BUN test procedure is simple and quick, and performed by trained healthcare professionals:

• Preparation: The phlebotomist cleans the puncture site, usually inside your elbow, with an antiseptic
• Vein identification: An elastic band is tied around your upper arm to make veins more visible
• Sample collection: A small needle is inserted into the vein to collect 2ml of blood in a gel vacutainer
• Needle removal: The needle is carefully withdrawn, and a cotton ball or bandage is applied
• Sample labelling: Your blood sample is properly labelled and prepared for transport to the laboratory
• Laboratory analysis: The sample is processed using the urease method to measure urea nitrogen levels

How Should You Prepare for a BUN Test?

BUN test preparation is straightforward and requires minimal effort:

• No special fasting required: You can eat and drink normally before the test unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Stay hydrated: Drink adequate water, as dehydration can affect your test results.
• Inform about medications: Tell your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal remedies you're taking.
• Avoid excessive protein: Don't consume unusually large amounts of protein-rich foods right before the test.
• Wear comfortable clothing: Choose clothes with sleeves that can be easily rolled up for a blood draw.

Diseases that a BUN Test Can Help Detect

The BUN blood test serves as an important diagnostic tool for identifying various health conditions:

• Chronic kidney disease: Progressive loss of kidney function over time
• Acute kidney injury: Sudden decrease in kidney function
• Dehydration: Insufficient fluid levels in the body
• Heart failure: Reduced blood flow affecting kidney function
• Liver disease: Conditions affecting urea production
• Urinary tract obstruction: Blockages preventing normal urine flow
• Diabetes complications: Kidney damage from prolonged high blood sugar

BUN Test/Packages that You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare

The following tests and packages are available to comprehensively assess your kidney function and related health conditions:

BUN Test Prices in Different Cities

The cost of a BUN blood test may vary depending on your location. Here's a table showing the approximate prices in different cities.