You've received your BUN Test results, but you may still be uncertain about whether they fall within normal range. Continue reading this section to gain clarity on whether your BUN results are within the expected range or not.
What Does BUN Test Results Mean?
While having some amount of blood urea nitrogen is inevitable, excess of it may indicate underlying kidney complications.
The BUN Normal Range may vary from lab to lab as they might leverage different testing and analysing methods.
A higher than BUN normal range may indicate compromised kidney functionalities. Several lifestyle disorders, as well as factors such as diet, nutrition and other key aspects, such as age, gender, and overall health profile, may impact the results of the BUN test.
The blood urea nitrogen normal range is as follows:
The Blood Urea Nitrogen Normal Range for individuals above 60 years of age may vary from the above values. Besides, a higher or lower than BUN normal range may occur due to various medical conditions and lifestyle factors.
What Conditions Can Cause High Blood Urea Nitrogen Levels?
Higher than normal BUN levels may occur due to medical conditions, such as:
- Heart and vascular disorders
- Congestive heart failure
- Recent or past history of heart attack
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Urinary tract obstructions
- Kidney diseases and kidney failures
Lifestyle factors that can lead to a higher value for the BUN blood test, such as:
- Increased protein in your diet
- Dehydration
- Stress
- Shock
What Conditions Can Cause Low Blood Urea Nitrogen Levels?
While less than normal levels of blood urea nitrogen in your bloodstream might be unlikely, your blood urea nitrogen test may reveal abnormally low BUN levels due to:
- Excessive malnutrition
- Acute lack of protein in your diet
- Overhydration (which directly impacts your kidneys' excretion capabilities)
- Liver failure
Opting for periodic blood urea nitrogen test can help your healthcare provider assess the risk and complications and suggest appropriate treatment/management interventions.