How to Check If Your Kidneys Are Functioning Properly
Our kidneys are small but powerful organs that play a major role in keeping us healthy. They filter waste from the blood, help balance fluids and electrolytes, control blood pressure, and even support healthy bones. But kidney disease can be a silent threat — often showing no symptoms until the damage is already done.
That’s why it’s so important to regularly check how your kidneys are functioning, especially if you’re from an African or Caribbean background, where the risk of kidney disease is significantly higher.
At AACKA – African & Afro-Caribbean Kidney Awareness, we’re on a mission to help our communities stay informed and proactive about kidney health.
✅ Signs You Might Need a Kidney Check
You should consider getting your kidneys checked if you:
Have high blood pressure or diabetes
Have a family history of kidney problems
Experience swelling in your legs, ankles, or face
Notice changes in how often you urinate or the colour of your urine
Feel constantly tired, nauseous, or short of breath
Even if you feel well, regular checks are vital for early detection.
🔍 Simple Tests to Check Your Kidney Function
Here are the main ways doctors check how well your kidneys are working:
1. Blood Test – eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate)
This measures how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood. It’s a key test that gives you a percentage (from 0 to 100) of your kidney function.
2. Urine Test – ACR (Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio)
This checks for protein in your urine. Healthy kidneys usually don’t let protein pass through. If protein is present, it could be an early sign of kidney disease.
3. Blood Pressure Check
High blood pressure is both a cause and a symptom of kidney problems. Keeping it under control can prevent damage.
4. Kidney Ultrasound or Scan
In some cases, your doctor might recommend imaging to look for blockages, cysts, or abnormalities in the kidney’s structure.
💡 What Can You Do Today?
Ask your GP for a kidney function test if you’re at risk
Drink plenty of water
Cut down on salt and processed foods
Get regular exercise
Manage diabetes or high blood pressure if you have them
📢 AACKA Is Here for You
We believe in the power of awareness and early action. That’s why AACKA is working hard to bring free community kidney checks, workshops, and educational materials to our local communities.
👉 Visit AACKA.com or follow us on Facebook to stay up to date with our events and health tips.
Let’s take charge of our kidney health — because the greatest wealth is health.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and awareness purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional if you have concerns about your kidney health or any other medical condition. AACKA (African & Afro-Caribbean Kidney Awareness) does not offer medical services and is not responsible for any actions taken based on the content of this article.
