High Urea: What It Means
What a high urea (blood urea nitrogen) level means and how it relates to kidney function.
Last updated: 2026-09-24
Urea is a waste product of protein metabolism that the kidneys normally clear. A high level can signal kidney stress.
Other causes
High urea can also arise from dehydration, a high-protein diet, gut bleeding, or certain medicines — not only kidney disease.
Frequently asked questions
Is high urea dangerous?
Very high urea can cause confusion and nausea. The underlying cause should be treated promptly.