CMP (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel) includes a series of blood tests that measure 14 substances in your blood and offer essential information about your body’s chemistry and metabolism. Moreover, the CMP shows data about how your kidneys and liver are working, the blood and electrolyte levels, the levels of protein in your blood – and many other things you need to know in order to keep your health under control. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel is recommended as part of your routine check-up, and it includes the following tests: glucose, calcium, proteins (albumin – which makes up about 60% of the total protein in the blood, total protein level), electrolytes (sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, chloride), kidney tests (blood urea nitrogen, creatinine), liver tests (alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, bilirubin)

For example, kidney function tests usually require a urine test and a blood test that can detect early signs of disease, evaluating ACR (albumin to creatinine ratio) and GFR (glomerular filtration rate). GFT is performed through a blood test, while ACR is a urine test. The blood test measures creatinine, a waste product that comes from muscle tissue – the creatinine result is evaluated, taking into account your age, race, and sex, telling your healthcare provider how well your kidneys are working. The urine test called ACR tests your urine for albumin, a protein that belongs in the blood. Having this protein in your urine typically means that your kidneys are not filtering blood well enough and indicates kidney disease.

Kidney issues often progress silently, with vague symptoms. This is precisely why blood and urine tests are essential in detecting any potential problems before they aggravate. Prompt medical attention is required if you experience several of the following symptoms at the same time: swelling or puffiness, foamy/bloody urine, problems urinating, mid-back pain, high blood pressure, nausea, loss of appetite, muscle cramps or chest pain.

That being said, keeping a vigilant eye on your general well-being is the most important thing you can do for your health. No matter how busy your lifestyle is, you should aim to take most health tests at least once a year. Always keep in mind that prevention is better than cure, and you deserve to be in full control of your health. At Test Smartly Labs, you can always count on our team of experts to support you in understanding what your body is striving to communicate, identifying red flags on time, and achieving optimal health at any age.