Urea and Electrolytes (U&E) Blood Testing

Cost: £49.00 for each test

Phlebotomy(Blood Draw) Fee: £50 (applies only to blood tests; no additional charge for urine tests or swabs)

Timeframe: Available within 24 hours

Appointments: Same-day availability with free cancellationa

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What is urea and electrolyte blood testing?

A U&E blood test evaluates kidney function and detects imbalances in essential electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, and bicarbonate. This test also measures urea levels, a waste product processed by the kidneys.

Monitoring electrolyte levels is crucial, as imbalances can lead to severe health issues such as abnormal heart rhythms. Elevated urea levels may signal kidney dysfunction, dehydration, or other underlying health problems.

In addition, U&E tests are often recommended for patients on certain medications, like ACE inhibitors, to ensure kidney safety and determine the need for any dosage adjustments. Our team of experienced healthcare professionals ensures your sample is processed in fully accredited laboratories known for their reliability and precision.

How is the test performed?

The U&E test requires a small sample of venous blood, typically collected from the arm. In newborns, a heel-prick method may be used for sample collection.

Why is a U&E Test Important?

This test helps identify a range of conditions, including:

Dehydration
Kidney impairment or failure
Electrolyte imbalances such as:

Hyperkalaemia (high potassium)
Hypokalaemia (low potassium)
Hypernatraemia (high sodium)
Hyponatraemia (low sodium)

Metabolic disorders like acidosis or alkalosis
Gastrointestinal bleeding

Understanding the underlying cause of these imbalances allows healthcare providers to take appropriate steps to restore normal levels and address any associated health concerns.

Reference Ranges for U&E Result

The normal ranges for U&E parameters may vary depending on age and health conditions:

Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)

Adults: 23–30 mmol/L
Newborns: 13–22 mmol/L
Children: 20–28 mmol/L

Potassium (K⁺)

Adults: 3.5–5.0 mmol/L
Newborns: 4.1–5.9 mmol/L
Infants: 4.1–5.3 mmol/L
Children: 4.0–5.0 mmol/L

Chloride (Cl⁻)

Adults: 98–106 mmol/L
Newborns: 96–106 mmol/L
Children: 90–110 mmol/L

Sodium (Na⁺)

Adults: 136–145 mmol/L
Newborns: 134–144 mmol/L
Infants: 134–150 mmol/L
Children: 134–145 mmol/L

Urea (BUN)

Adults: 6–7.1 mmol/L (10–20 mg/dL)
Newborns: 3–12 mg/dL
Children: 5–18 mg/dL

Interpreting abnormal results

Abnormal test results may indicate various health conditions:

Low Urea: This may indicate liver disease, overhydration, or malnutrition.
High Urea (BUN): Can signal kidney dysfunction, dehydration, gastrointestinal bleeding, or high-protein diets.
Low Sodium: This may indicate heart or kidney issues, excessive water intake, or Addison’s disease.
High Sodium: Often linked to dehydration or specific medical conditions such as diabetes insipidus.
Low Potassium: May result from poor dietary intake, diarrhoea, or medications like diuretics
High Potassium: Associated with kidney disease, acidosis, or certain medications.

Other factors like diet, medications, physical activity, and hydration levels can also influence test results. It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for a comprehensive interpretation based on your medical history.

When to seek immediate medical attention

Critical U&E values require urgent medical intervention:

Potassium (K⁺): Below 2.5 mmol/L or above 6.5 mmol/L
Chloride (Cl⁻): Below 80 mmol/L or above 115 mmol/L
CO₂: Below 6 mmol/L
Sodium (Na⁺): Below 120 mmol/L or above 160 mmol/L
Urea (BUN): Above 100 mg/dL

Book Your U&E Test Today

Visit the Health Screening Clinic for fast, reliable Urea and Electrolyte blood testing. Our team is here to support your health journey with quick appointments, free cancellations, and trusted results. Call us today to schedule your test.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT 020 71833570