Small and large changes in BUN can occur from medications, dietary changes, and hydration status. Limitations of the test: The BUN test is a fast way to evaluate kidney function, but there are some limitations.When ordered as part of a basic or comprehensive metabolic panel, it can be used to evaluate a person's general health. BUN is usually used in conjunction with a creatinine test: The BUN test is primarily used along with the creatinine test to evaluate kidney function, as well as to monitor people with acute or chronic kidney dysfunction or failure.Before special tests: BUN tests may be ordered prior to some imaging studies like computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs) where contrast dyes that could damage the kidneys are used.For women, normal values can range from 88 to 128. Normal range: For men, normal values can range from 97 to 137 milliliters per minute. Normal range: 7 to 20 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl). Therefore, BUN is collected to monitor for kidney health and effectiveness of treatment in those who already have established kidney disease. Purpose: To detect elevated waste levels in the bloodstream, which is an early sign of reduced kidney function.

Underlying health conditions: Diabetes and high blood pressure are two types of conditions that may affect the kidneys.Low levels of BUN may occur in people who have liver failure, women who are pregnant, and to those who are overly hydrated. Significant liver damage or disease may inhibit the production of urea which can cause BUN concentrations to fall. High levels can be seen in people who have gastrointestinal bleeding, high protein diets, infection, and dehydration. The liver may produce too much urea or the kidneys may not be able to filter the waste out of the blood, which can cause levels to be high. High or low levels can indicate a problem: Diseases that affect the kidneys or liver can change the amount of urea in the blood.This process produces ammonia, which is then converted into the less toxic waste product urea. Urea is a waste product formed in the liver when protein is metabolized. What the test measures: This test measures the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood.Women and children may have lower BUN levels than menīecause of how their bodies break down protein.Low in protein, malnutrition, or severe liver damage.Įxcessive amounts of liquid may cause overhydration and cause a low BUN A low BUN value may be caused by a diet very.High BUN-to-creatinine ratio may be caused by bleeding in the The kidneys transfer the urea from the blood to the urine. The liver breaks down protein and ammonia to produce urea, after which, it is taken up by the kidneys. Urea is a waste product that is produced in the body as a natural process of breaking down proteins. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the nonprescription andĪddison's disease, tissue damage (such as from severeīurns), or from bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.īUN-to-creatinine ratios occur with sudden (acute) kidney problems, which may be A Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) test measures the urea nitrogen levels in the blood. High BUN levels can also be caused by low blood flow to the High blood pressure that directly affects the kidneys. A high BUN value can mean kidney injury orĭisease is present.Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) footnote 1ġ0-20 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or 3.6-7.1 millimoles per liter (mmol/L) This means that a value that falls outside the normal values listed here may still be normal for you or your lab. Also, your doctor will evaluate your results based on your health and other factors. Your lab report should contain the range your lab uses. These ranges vary from lab to lab, and your lab may have a different range for what's normal. The normal values listed here-called a reference range-are just a guide. Problems, such as dehydration, that may cause abnormal BUN and creatinine A BUN-to-creatinine ratio can help your doctor check for Tests can be used together to find the BUN-to-creatinine ratio The level of creatinine in your bloodĪlso tells how well your kidneys are working-a high creatinine level may mean Blood urea nitrogen to creatinine ratio (BUN:creatinine)Ĭreatinine test. A lowīUN level can occur normally in the second or third Liver disease or damage can lower your BUN level. Remove urea from the blood normally, your BUN level rises.ĭehydration, or a diet high in protein can also make Liver and passed out of your body in the urine. Urea is made when protein is broken down in your The reference ranges for the BUN levels are as follows 1 : Adult: 10-20 mg/dL or 3.6-7.1 mmol/L (SI units) Elderly: May be slightly raised beyond adult levels. The amount of nitrogen in your blood that comes from the waste product A blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test measures

What is a normal bun range