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Urinalysis

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Urinalysis

A urinalysis tests the urine for color, clarity (clear or cloudy), odor, concentration, and pH (acidity or alkalinity). It also checks for abnormal levels of protein, sugar, and blood cells or other substances that, if found in the urine, may mean an illness or disease somewhere in the body.

A person may have a urinalysis:

  • To screen for a disease or infection of the urinary tract. Symptoms that may cause a doctor to order a urine test include discolored or foul-smelling urine, pain during urination, difficulty urinating, flank pain, or fever.
  • To monitor the treatment of certain conditions, such as diabetes, kidney stones, urinary tract infection, or some types of kidney or liver disease.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

NOTICE: This health information was not created by Columbia University Irving Medical Center and may not necessarily reflect specific CUIMC practices. For medical advice to your personal condition, please consult your doctor. Medical advice disclaimer.