Is Blood Urea Nitrogen Value Of 21.0 Mg/dl A Cause For Concern?

Posted on Tue, 28 Jul 2015

Question: Hi, i have type2 diabetes and i am on a low-carb high-protein diet,
I did my blood test 2 days ago.
my Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) was 21.0 mg/dl
Creatinine in Serum 0.90
BUN/Creatinine Ratio 23.3
Glucose in Plasma (Fasting) 81
my question is : is it possible that i got hi BUN because I did not stop my hi protein intake before the test?
and for how long should i stop eating meat and protein before my blood test to get accurate results?
what should i do now?

Answered by Dr. Praveen Jeyapathy (25 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
After 5 days. No reason to be concerned.

Detailed Answer:
Dear Mr. XXXXXXX
Good morning. Welcome to HCM. I am Dr Praveen and I will be answering you today. Read your query and noted the contents.

As you mentioned the BUN is marginally high. High BUN is seen with a diet high in protein and also in various other conditions including dehydration. In your case, given the fact that your liver function test and the rest of the renal function test are normal its likely that a high protein diet could have pushed the BUN slightly high.

I sense there is nothing to worry with such a marginal elevation. I would suggest you repeat it after 5 days of a normal diet with adequate hydration. Drink plenty of water (upto 3 ltr/d). This check is to reassure you more than anything.

All your other reports are within normal limits. Its commendable how well you have maintained your health. Please go on with a good lifestyle, correct medications and adequate followup. Don't worry much about the BUN but please repeat it for complete and confident reassurance for you personally.

Wishing you good health. Take care.
Warm regards,
Dr Praveen

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad