PRA Plasma Renin Activity

PRA, or Plasma Renin Activity, measures the activity of renin, an enzyme involved in regulating blood pressure. The test helps determine if your renin levels are too high or too low, which can indicate conditions such as hypertension or kidney disease.

PRA is done for multiple reasons, including:

• Diagnosing and managing conditions related to high or low blood pressure
• Determining the effectiveness of treatment for hypertension
• Assessing kidney function and detecting kidney diseases

PRA may be recommended if you:

• Have symptoms of high or low blood pressure, such as dizziness or fatigue
• Have a family history of hypertension or kidney disease
• Are undergoing treatment for hypertension or kidney disease

The normal range for PRA results varies depending on factors like age and medical history. Abnormal PRA levels can indicate conditions such as primary aldosteronism, renal artery stenosis, or adrenal gland disorders. Your doctor will interpret your results in conjunction with other tests to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

During the PRA test:

• A small sample of your blood will be taken by a healthcare professional.
• The sample will be sent to the laboratory for analysis.
• The test is quick and usually involves minimal discomfort.

Before PRA:

• Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking, as they may interfere with test results.
• Follow any dietary restrictions given by your doctor, such as avoiding high-sodium foods or caffeine.
• Your doctor may suggest fasting for a certain period before the test.

Other tests that may be ordered alongside PRA include:

• Blood pressure measurement
• Electrolyte and kidney function tests
• Imaging tests like CT scans or ultrasounds to evaluate kidney health
• Hormone level tests like aldosterone or cortisol

Plasma Renin Activity test

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a chronic condition characterised by elevated pressure in the arteries. It can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Regular monitoring of blood pressure levels is crucial for managing hypertension.