Article · 4 min read
High Urea (Blood Urea Nitrogen): What It Means
What a high urea or BUN level means and how it relates to kidney function.
Urea (measured as blood urea nitrogen, BUN) is a waste product from protein breakdown that the kidneys normally clear. A high level can signal kidney stress.
Other causes
High urea can also come from dehydration, a high-protein diet, gut bleeding, or certain medicines — not only kidney disease.
What to do
Your doctor compares urea with creatinine and your symptoms to find the cause. Do not change your diet on your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is high urea dangerous?
Very high urea can cause confusion and nausea. The underlying cause must be treated — see a doctor promptly.
Sources
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This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor about your specific condition.