Urinalysis

Urinalysis is a laboratory test that examines the physical, chemical, and microscopic properties of urine. It is a common diagnostic tool used by healthcare providers to assess a patient’s overall health, diagnose diseases, and monitor ongoing conditions. By analyzing urine, healthcare professionals can gain valuable insights into various bodily functions and identify potential issues that may require further investigation or treatment.

Chemical Analysis : This part involves testing for specific substances using test strips that change color based on the presence of certain compounds. Common tests include:

• pH Level : The acidity or alkalinity of urine. A normal pH ranges from 4.5 to 8.0. Abnormal pH levels can indicate metabolic disorders or infections.
• Protein : The presence of protein (proteinuria) can indicate kidney disease or other health issues.
• Glucose : Normally, glucose is not present in urine. Its presence may suggest diabetes mellitus or other metabolic disorders.
• Ketones : Ketones may appear in urine during fasting, starvation, or uncontrolled diabetes, indicating that the body is breaking down fat for energy.
• Bilirubin : This substance is a byproduct of the breakdown of red blood cells. Its presence can indicate liver dysfunction or biliary obstruction.
• Nitrites and Leukocyte Esterase : These tests help detect urinary tract infections (UTIs). Nitrites are produced by certain bacteria, while leukocyte esterase indicates the presence of white blood cells.