Ordering the Routine Urinalysis Test
Ordering a Routine Urinalysis Test can help detect various conditions affecting the urinary system. This test examines the urine for different substances and cells, providing valuable information about your body’s current state. Interestingly, this test can also reveal signs of dehydration, which might not be immediately obvious.
When you order this test, you can expect several benefits:
- Detects urinary tract infections early
- Monitors kidney function
- Identifies signs of diabetes
- Assesses hydration levels
- Evaluates potential kidney stones
Who Should Consider This Lab Test
People experiencing frequent urination or discomfort during urination might find this test helpful. For example, someone noticing a change in urine color or odor could benefit from understanding what these changes mean.
Consider ordering this test if you find yourself in any of these situations:
- Experiencing persistent back pain
- Noticing swelling in the legs or feet
- Having a family history of kidney issues
- Feeling unusually tired or weak
- Experiencing unexplained weight loss
Ordering this lab test can help identify specific issues like infections or kidney problems. Delaying this test might lead to unnoticed conditions that could worsen over time.
Preparing for Your Urine Analysis
No fasting is required for this test, so you can eat and drink normally before your appointment. It’s important to follow any instructions from your healthcare provider to ensure the test results are as informative as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Routine Urinalysis
| Test Name | Reference Range | Significance | Low and High Levels of Routine Urinalysis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Yellow | Indicates hydration level and potential presence of substances. | High levels mean dark urine, possibly indicating dehydration. Low levels mean pale urine, often a sign of overhydration. |
| Appearance | Clear | Assesses clarity, which can indicate infections or other issues. | High levels mean cloudy urine, possibly due to infection. Low levels mean clear urine, typically normal. |
| Specific Gravity | 1.005-1.030 | Measures urine concentration, indicating kidney function. | High levels mean concentrated urine, possibly due to dehydration. Low levels mean diluted urine, possibly due to overhydration. |
| pH | 4.5-8.0 | Indicates acidity or alkalinity, affecting stone formation. | High levels mean alkaline urine, possibly due to infection. Low levels mean acidic urine, possibly due to high protein diet. |
| Protein | Negative | Detects protein presence, indicating kidney damage. | High levels mean proteinuria, possibly due to kidney issues. Low levels mean normal kidney function. |
| Glucose | Negative | Checks for glucose, indicating diabetes. | High levels mean glucosuria, possibly due to diabetes. Low levels mean normal glucose levels. |
| Ketones | Negative | Detects ketones, indicating fat breakdown. | High levels mean ketosis, possibly due to diabetes or fasting. Low levels mean normal metabolism. |
| Occult Blood | Negative | Identifies blood presence, indicating injury or infection. | High levels mean hematuria, possibly due to infection or stones. Low levels mean no blood detected. |
| Leukocyte Esterase | Negative | Detects white blood cells, indicating infection. | High levels mean possible infection. Low levels mean no infection detected. |
| Nitrite | Negative | Indicates bacteria presence, suggesting infection. | High levels mean bacterial infection. Low levels mean no bacteria detected. |
| Bilirubin | Negative | Checks for bilirubin, indicating liver function. | High levels mean liver issues. Low levels mean normal liver function. |
Reference ranges may differ. Visit the Quest Diagnostics lab test directory for the latest values.
Routine Urinalysis FAQ
Is there Routine Urinalysis testing near me?
To find nearby locations for Routine Urinalysis, use the patient service center locator. This is especially helpful if you need a convenient site for quick sample collection due to frequent urination concerns.
What is the cost of the test?
The cost of the test includes all fees, such as sample collection at patient service centers. It’s worth ordering to detect early signs of urinary tract infections.
How often should I retest?
Retesting every year is recommended to monitor kidney function and detect any changes. Regular testing helps in early detection of potential issues.
How accurate is the test?
The test uses a dipstick method followed by microscopic analysis for accuracy. TrueHealthLabs.com works with CLIA-certified labs to maintain high-quality testing standards you can trust.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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