We insert the stick into the urine for a few seconds. After the specified time (usually between 30 seconds and 2 minutes), we interpret the results by comparing the color on the dipstick to the color chart on the dipstick bottle.
Glucose
Glucose is not normally found in urine but may be present in individuals with poorly controlled diabetes, as an early sign of diabetes, or in certain kidney diseases. When taking SGLT2 inhibitors, people with type 2 diabetes may have glucose in their urine.
Bilirubin
Bilirubin is a chemical produced by the liver. It is not normally found in the urine. Therefore, when it is found, it usually indicates a problem with the liver.
Ketones
Ketones are chemicals produced by the body when it breaks down fat for energy. This typically occurs when the body has depleted its sugar (glucose) stores, such as during fasting. Under normal circumstances, ketones are not detected in the urine. However, the presence of ketones in the urine of an individual with poorly controlled diabetes, especially type 1, may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis, which requires immediate medical attention. Ketones may also be present in pregnant women or can be a sign of dehydration.
Specific Gravity
Specific Gravity assesses hydration levels. Low values may indicate diabetes insipidus, sickle cell nephropathy, or acute tubular necrosis. They can also be caused by glucose, urea, or alkaline urate, while high values may be due to significant protein or ketoacids.
Blood
Blood is not usually found in urine. It may be present if there is an infection or due to significant underlying diseases such as bladder or kidney cancer. In women, it may be due to contamination if menstruating at the time of providing the sample. Confirmation by sending the sample for a full laboratory test is usually necessary, as the dipstick test can show a false positive.
PH level
Urinary pH levels are handy in evaluating stones, infections, and renal tubular acidosis (RTA).
Protein
Protein is typically present in urine in small amounts, which are usually too minuscule to be detected by a urine dipstick test. However, larger amounts of protein may be present in the case of an infection, and it can also be a sign of pre-eclampsia during pregnancy. Additionally, the presence of protein can be an early indicator of kidney disease and is used to assess the severity of the condition.
Urobilinogen
Small amounts of urobilinogen may be present in the urine, but large amounts indicate a potential issue with the liver or rapid red blood cell destruction.
Leukocyte esterase and nitrite
Both of these tests are used to check for the presence of infection. The leukocyte esterase test detects a reaction that occurs only when there are many white cells in the urine. White cells enter the urine when there is an infection.
Remember, a urine dipstick test is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. If necessary, always follow up with more tests.
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