Is blood urea and nitrogen same?

Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is not the same as urea. Urea is a waste product that is produced when the body breaks down protein. Nitrogen is a component of urea, and blood urea nitrogen is a measure of the amount of nitrogen that is present in the blood.

BUN levels can be elevated in a number of conditions, including:

* Dehydration

* Kidney failure

* Heart failure

* Liver failure

* Gastrointestinal bleeding

* Cushing's syndrome

* Diabetes mellitus

* Certain medications

Low BUN levels can be caused by a number of conditions, including:

* Liver disease

* Malnutrition

* Pregnancy

* Addison's disease

* Certain medications

BUN levels are typically measured as part of a routine blood test. If your BUN levels are abnormal, your doctor may order additional tests to determine the cause.