What it measures
- Urea
Who it’s for
- A quick check of kidney function
- Tiredness, swelling or changes in how often you pass urine
- Monitoring hydration or a high-protein diet
What urea shows
Your liver makes urea when it breaks down protein, and your kidneys clear it into your urine. A raised urea most often means you’re a little dehydrated, but it can also rise with a high-protein diet, some medicines, bleeding in the stomach or reduced kidney function. A low urea is less common and usually not a concern.
Do you need the fuller kidney test?
Urea on its own is a rough guide. For a reliable picture of your kidneys, our Kidney Function Blood Test (£70) adds creatinine, eGFR and electrolytes for £15 more.
How to prepare
- Drink a couple of glasses of water beforehand: it makes the sample quicker and easier to take.
- No fasting needed. Eat and drink as normal.
- Avoid a very large, protein-rich meal in the few hours before.
How it works at our Croydon clinic
Book online
Choose your test and a time that suits you. No GP referral needed.
A 15-minute visit
A trained clinician takes a small blood sample at 169 Shirley Road, Croydon. Tell us if you’re nervous.
Results in 1–3 days
A clear report showing each result against its reference range.
Next steps
Share your report with your GP, who can arrange NHS follow-up if anything needs it.
Questions
Is urea the same as uric acid?
No. Urea comes from protein breakdown; uric acid comes from purines and is linked to gout. This test measures urea only.
Do I need to fast?
No, but avoid a very large protein-rich meal in the few hours before your test.
How much is a Urea Test in Croydon?
£55 at our clinic at 169 Shirley Road, Croydon, including taking your blood sample and your report.
How quickly will I get my results?
Usually within 1 to 3 days, in a clear report showing each result against its reference range.