Urinalysis: What It Shows and What It Does Not
Quick answer: A urinalysis looks at the look, chemistry and microscopic contents of your urine. It is used to screen for urinary tract infection, kidney conditions and diabetes, among other things. It is a screening step, not a diagnosis.
About this test
A urinalysis typically has three parts: how the urine looks, a dipstick test for substances such as protein, glucose, blood and white cell markers, and a microscope exam for cells and crystals.
Why is it ordered?
- A routine health check.
- Looking for urinary tract infection or blood in the urine.
- Screening for kidney conditions or diabetes.
- Following a known condition.
What results may show
- Signs that may go along with infection, such as white cells or bacteria markers.
- Protein, blood or glucose in the urine, which your provider may want to look into.
What this test may not show
- It does not name the cause of an abnormal finding.
- A urine culture is needed to confirm which bacteria are present.
- Hydration, exercise, menstrual blood, and contamination of the sample can change results.
- An abnormal result does not always mean a condition is present.
How to prepare
- A clean catch midstream urine sample is collected at our location.
- Drink water as usual. Tell your provider about medicines and supplements, and if you are menstruating.
Where you can get this test
| Option | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Wellness Panel | $149 | CBC, CMP, lipid panel, vitamin D, A1c, hs-CRP, urinalysis, TSH |
| Comprehensive Health Panel, Women’s | $149 | CBC, CMP, lipid panel, vitamin D, A1c, hs-CRP, urinalysis, TSH |
| Comprehensive Health Panel, Man | $149 | CBC, CMP, lipid panel, total testosterone, A1c, hs-CRP, urinalysis, TSH |
A doctor’s visit is not required to order. Order online, then visit our Buffalo Grove or Lake Zurich location for the sample. Review results with your own healthcare provider.
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Frequently asked questions
What can a urinalysis detect?
Signs of infection, protein, blood and glucose in the urine, and other markers.
Can a urinalysis diagnose a urinary tract infection?
It can suggest one. A urine culture confirms the bacteria.
Does my period affect the test?
It can, because blood can enter the sample. Tell your provider.
Sources
Medically reviewed by Rodion Levin, FNP-C, Founder and Medical Director. This page is for general education. It does not diagnose a condition or replace advice from your healthcare provider.
