Kidney health is one of those things many people do not think about until a lab result raises a question. Unlike some health conditions that come with obvious symptoms, kidney disease can be quiet. Patients may feel completely normal while their kidney function slowly changes over time.
That is one reason regular medical care matters. As Dr. Walz explains, kidney disease can often reach more advanced stages before someone has symptoms. For many patients, changes are first noticed through blood work or urine testing ordered by a primary care provider.
So, how often should you get your kidneys checked? The answer depends on your risk factors.
For patients with diabetes, kidney function is typically checked about once a year. For patients with high blood pressure or heart disease, testing may happen one to two times per year. Patients over age 60, those with a family history of kidney disease, or those with a history of kidney injury or autoimmune disease may need more individualized monitoring. There is not always one firm rule that applies to everyone.
For patients without known risk factors, Dr. Walz emphasized a balanced approach. Kidney testing can be helpful as a baseline, especially because many people assume kidney function is checked during annual physicals when it may not be. Some routine labs only check cholesterol or other markers, not kidney function. A basic metabolic panel can include creatinine, which helps estimate kidney function through eGFR, but it is not guaranteed to be part of every visit.
The two main tests used to screen kidney health are a blood test and a urine test. The blood test looks at creatinine and eGFR, while the urine test checks for protein leakage. Both can give providers important insight into how the kidneys are functioning.
At the same time, Dr. Walz cautions that kidney labs should not create unnecessary panic. If your kidney function has been normal and you have no major health changes or risk factors, you may not need yearly kidney labs. In some cases, checking too frequently can create more worry than benefit. The goal is awareness, not fear.
The best place to start is with your primary care provider. Ask whether your kidney function has been checked, whether a urine test makes sense, and make sure your blood pressure is being monitored. This is especially important because high blood pressure can be both a cause and a sign of kidney-related concerns.
You do not need symptoms to care about your kidneys. But you also do not need to assume the worst. Kidney health is best approached through regular care, thoughtful screening, and an ongoing conversation with your provider.
