Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Support Group

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a progressive, genetic disorder of the kidneys. It occurs in humans and other organisms. PKD is characterised by the presence of multiple cysts (polycystic) in both kidneys. The disease can also damage the liver, pancreas and rarely the heart and brain.

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tryn2bpositive 05/17/2013

I read on a post that someone was told NOT to fast before labs. Then there was a lot of discussion about different results and more accurate when not fasting. Appreciate comments so I can discuss it knowledgeably with doc as labs are due. Thanks

deleted_user 05/17/2013

tryn2bpos,
Usually blood tests to test cholesterol and blood sugar levels require fasting because food and drink can throw off the results.

Whenever I fast for the bilirubin test it always comes back abnormal. When I don't fast it comes back normal.

Do you have a particular blood test you have in mind about why the need to fast?

deleted_user 05/17/2013

Depending on what they are testing for, your best bet is to ask the doctor if they want you to fast before the test. Some require it, some don't. If you don't ask your doctor, ask the lab tech before you go if for the blood draw. Most will know the requirements for the tests they are drawing for. I know my doctor doesn't require fasting for basic metabolic panels and to check creatinine and egfr. Best bet is to talk to the doctor who is requesting the testing.... Good Luck.... Have a blessed day!

norma67 05/17/2013

Absolutely! Do not fast before your kidney function labs from kidney doc! For years they had us fasting,the one day they said no more fasting before kidney doc appointment. My GFR went up 12 points! Good luck sweetie and keep us informed!

Lots of love,
Norma ...

tryn2bpositive 05/21/2013

The tests are blood chemistry, comprehensive metabolic panel and microalbumin creat random urine. I've fasted for them all. My bilirubin- heck everything- is high.
Just connected my high CO2 with this terrible decline I've had...and I may be back with a simple sodium citrate or bicarbonate... To think I could be out of this situation of no energy, nausea, etc with a simple fix boggles my mind.
That said I really want to make sure I ask the right questions and do the right thing when I get my next labs and talk to my neph.
thank you all for your replies, really appreciate it.

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