Understanding Urinalysis: Procedure and Results
Urinalysis is a common diagnostic test that helps detect urinary tract infections, kidney issues, and metabolic conditions. Learn about the procedure, what the results mean, and when it’s needed.
Written by Dr. J T Hema Pratima
Reviewed by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Last updated on 28th Aug, 2025
Urinalysis is a simple yet powerful diagnostic test that helps doctors understand your overall health, detect potential medical conditions, and monitor existing ones. If your doctor has recommended a urinalysis, you might wonder what it entails and what the results mean. This article will guide you through the procedure, its significance, and how to interpret the results—all in simple, easy-to-understand terms.
What Is Urinalysis?
Urinalysis is a routine test that examines the content, appearance, and concentration of your urine. It helps identify infections, kidney diseases, diabetes, and other health issues. The test involves three main components:
1. Visual Examination: Checking the colour and clarity of the urine.
2. Chemical Analysis: Using a dipstick to detect substances like protein, glucose, or blood.
3. Microscopic Examination: Looking for cells, bacteria, or crystals under a microscope.
Why Is Urinalysis Done?
Your doctor may recommend a urinalysis for several reasons:
• Routine Check-up: As part of a general health screening.
• Diagnosing Medical Conditions: Such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney disease, or diabetes.
• Monitoring Existing Conditions: Like diabetes or high blood pressure.
• Pre-surgical Assessment: To ensure your kidneys are functioning well before surgery.
• Pregnancy Testing: To detect early signs of complications.
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How Is Urinalysis Performed?
The procedure is quick, painless, and can be done at a clinic or at home with a test kit. Here’s what to expect:
Step 1: Sample Collection
• You’ll be given a sterile container.
• Clean your genital area to avoid contamination.
• Collect a midstream urine sample (urinate a little first, then collect the middle portion).
• Avoid touching the inside of the container.
Step 2: Lab Analysis
Your sample will be sent to a lab where technicians will:
• Check the colour (clear, yellow, dark, etc.) and clarity (clear or cloudy).
• Dip a chemical strip to test for pH, protein, glucose, ketones, blood, and more.
• Examine the urine under a microscope for cells, bacteria, or crystals.
Understanding Urinalysis Results
Your test report may include several parameters. Here’s what common findings mean:
1. Colour & Clarity
• Normal: Pale to dark yellow (due to hydration levels)
• Abnormal:
- Red/Pink: Could indicate blood (UTI, kidney stones).
- Cloudy: May suggest infection or crystals.
- Dark Brown: Could signal liver disease.
2. Chemical Analysis (Dipstick Test)
• pH Level:
- Normal: 4.5–8.
- High pH: May indicate a UTI or kidney issues.
- Low pH: Could suggest diabetes or dehydration.
• Protein:
- Normal: Little to no protein.
- High Protein (Proteinuria): May indicate kidney disease or high blood pressure.
• Glucose:
- Normal: None or very little.
- High Glucose: Could be a sign of diabetes.
• Ketones:
- Normal: Absent.
- Present: May suggest uncontrolled diabetes or starvation.
• Blood:
- Normal: None.
- Present: Could mean infection, kidney stones, or injury.
3. Microscopic Examination
• White Blood Cells (WBCs): Indicate infection (UTI).
• Red Blood Cells (RBCs): Could suggest kidney disease, infection, or stones.
• Bacteria/Yeast: Sign of infection.
• Crystals: May indicate kidney stones.
What If My Results Are Abnormal?
Don’t panic! An abnormal result doesn’t always mean a serious problem. Factors like dehydration, medications, or recent exercise can affect results. Your doctor may:
• Recommend a repeat test.
• Order additional tests (blood tests, imaging).
• Suggest lifestyle changes (drinking more water, dietary adjustments).
• Prescribe medications if an infection is found.
Tips for a Reliable Urinalysis
To ensure accurate results:
• Drink enough water (but don’t overhydrate).
• Avoid vigorous exercise before the test.
• Inform your doctor about medications/supplements.
• Follow hygiene instructions while collecting the sample.
When to See a Doctor?
Consult your healthcare provider if you notice:
• Persistent pain or burning during urination.
• Frequent urination with urgency.
• Blood in urine.
• Foamy or dark-colored urine.
Book a Urinalysis with Apollo 24|7
If your doctor has recommended a urinalysis or you’re experiencing urinary symptoms, Apollo 24|7 offers easy at-home test kits and lab appointments. You can:
• Schedule a test online.
• Consult a doctor for result interpretation.
• Get personalised advice on managing any detected conditions.
Conclusion
Urinalysis is a simple yet essential test that provides valuable insights into your health. Understanding the procedure and results can help you take proactive steps toward better well-being. If you have concerns about your urinary health, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional.
Would you like to book a urinalysis or speak to a doctor? Visit Apollo 24|7 today for hassle-free healthcare services!
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General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
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Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Hyderabad
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Dr. Sujay P R
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
3 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
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General Practitioner
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