What is a Dangerous High Bun Level?

The urea nitrogen (BUN) test is a part of a routine chemistry panel that helps assess kidney function and hydration status. BUN levels can indicate dehydration, urinary tract conditions, and kidney issues among other possible diagnosis. The reference range of BUN is typically 6-20 mg/dl, and levels higher than this can place the patient at risk for further liver or kidney damage.

What Causes an Elevated Bun Level?

The two main causes for a high BUN level are dehydration or excessive protein intake. Dehydration usually produces a high BUN level because less water is being taken in, forcing the kidneys to become more efficient at retaining nitrogen in the blood. If protein intake is too high, excess nitrogen in the form of BUN will be released into the bloodstream. Too much protein can also put stress on the kidneys, preventing them from filtering nitrogen in the correct ways. In extreme cases, it can even lead to acute kidney failure.

Consequences of Excessive Bun Levels

Having an increased BUN level for a prolonged period can be damaging to many organs, especially the kidneys and liver. These organs work in tandem to filter the BUN through the body, so if the BUN level is high, then the organs will have to work harder to filter it. This can damage the cells and tissues of the organs, leading to decreased organ function and failure.

Additionally, high BUN levels can signal that there are underlying medical conditions that need to be treated, like kidney dysfunction or urinary tract infections. If the condition is causing BUN levels to remain high, then it can accelerate the organ damage mentioned above.

In Conclusion

High BUN levels can be dangerous for many reasons and can signal underlying medical problems. If left untreated these levels can cause damage to both the kidneys and liver. Seek medical help if you are concerned about your BUN levels or if you are experiencing any symptoms such as dehydration, fatigue, nausea, or decreased urination. Testing and proper diagnosis are the best ways to ensure these conditions are properly handled to reduce the risk of long term damage.