Kidney Function Test Singapore
2 Minutes ReadLast updated: Jun 13, 2024
Kidney disease is a silent killer, because of its ability to develop quietly without any symptoms until the later stage. Regular health screening and a healthy lifestyle is key to preventing kidney failure.
Kidney Disease in Singapore
Here are some interesting statistics in Singapore:
- About 6 new patients are diagnosed daily.
- Singapore ranks 1st in the world for diabetes-induced kidney failure.
- Singapore ranks 4th in the world of prevalence (existing cases) of kidney failure.
- Singapore ranks 7th in the world for incidence (new cases) of kidney failure.
- About 2 in 3 cases of kidney failure in Singapore can be attributed to diabetes.
Information adapted from NKF.
How To Test for Kidney Function?
Testing kidney function involves various diagnostic methods to evaluate kidney health:
Blood Test for Kidney Function
Understanding the blood test for kidney function is crucial for monitoring renal health. This test provides essential insights into the kidneys' ability to filter blood and maintain electrolyte balance.
- Sodium, Potassium, Chloride: Electrolytes that regulate nerve and muscle function, hydration, blood acidity, and tissue repair. Imbalanced levels can signal kidney dysfunction, as healthy kidneys maintain electrolyte equilibrium.
- Urea (BUN - Blood Urea Nitrogen): This measures urea nitrogen levels, a waste product from protein breakdown. Elevated levels may indicate inadequate waste removal by the kidneys, signaling dysfunction.
- Creatinine: Generated from muscle metabolism, creatinine is normally filtered out by the kidneys. High levels may indicate impaired kidney function.
- Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR): This calculates the amount of blood filtered by the kidneys per minute, adjusted for body size. Lower values may indicate kidney damage.
- iPTH Hormone (Intact Parathyroid Hormone): Regulating calcium, phosphate, and vitamin D, abnormal levels may signal kidney disease as kidneys activate vitamin D, influencing iPTH secretion.
Urine Test for Kidney Function
This simple yet effective test helps assess kidney health, particularly for early detection of damage.
- Detection of Protein or Albumin: Detecting protein or albumin in urine indicates potential kidney damage.
- Glucose Levels: High glucose levels suggest ineffective sugar reabsorption, potentially indicating kidney damage, especially in diabetes.
- Specific Gravity: Measures urine concentration, abnormal levels may indicate improper water and salt balance regulation.
- Presence of Red Blood Cells (Erythrocytes): Suggests glomerular damage.
- White Blood Cells (Leukocytes): Indicates infection or inflammation affecting kidney function.
Symptoms of Kidney Problems
Kidney issues may present various symptoms, though some
cases may be asymptomatic.
Symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Reduced appetite
- Tiredness and weakness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Changes in urination frequency
- Reduced mental clarity
- Muscle spasms
- Swollen feet and ankles
- Dry, itchy skin
- High blood pressure that is hard to manage
- Difficulty breathing if fluid accumulates in the lungs
- Chest discomfort if fluid gathers around the heart lining
Consult a doctor if experiencing these symptoms for early detection and effective management of kidney disease.
Prices for Kidney Function Test in Singapore
Test | Price* |
---|---|
Consultation | $38.15 |
Renal Profile 1 Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, Total CO2 (Bicarbonate), Urea (BUN), Creatinine, eGFR |
$28.34 |
Renal Profile 4 Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, Total CO2 (Bicarbonate), Urea (BUN), Creatinine, eGFR, Calcium, Phosphate, Uric Acid, Urine Microalbumin/Creatinine Ratio |
$47.96 |
Renal Profile 5 Glucose, Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, Total CO2 (Bicarbonate), Urea (BUN), Creatinine, eGFR, Calcium, Phosphate, Uric Acid, Urine Microalbumin/Creatinine Ratio, Parathyroid Hormone (iPTH), Haemoglobin, Albumin, Urine FEME |
$80.66 |
Ultrasound Kidney | $150.42 |
*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.
How Long Does a Kidney Function Test Take?
During off-peak times, our clinic typically conducts blood tests lasting from 30 to 60 minutes. Your results will be available within 3 to 5 days and delivered to you via email.
Where Can I Do the Kidney Function Test in Singapore?
ATA Medical is conveniently situated in two different locations:
- Tanjong Pagar Medical Clinic (Closest MRT: Tanjong Pagar EW15)
- Orchard Clinic (Closest MRT: Orchard Boulevard TE13)
Additionally, we offer the flexibility of home health screenings or blood tests conducted at your preferred location. Alternatively, you may opt for our standard or comprehensive health screening packages. Our Royal ($667), Jewel ($1415), and Marvel ($2289) packages encompass a range of blood and ultrasound tests for comprehensive evaluation.