Urine Testing: Why Doctors Order Urine Analysis - Causes & Benefits

There are many reasons why doctors may need to measure the urine of a patient. Some of these reasons include:

* To check for signs of infection. A urine analysis can help to identify the presence of bacteria, white blood cells, and other signs of infection in the urinary tract.

* To assess kidney function. A urine analysis can help to assess how well the kidneys are functioning by measuring the levels of creatinine, urea, and other waste products in the urine.

* To diagnose and monitor diabetes. A urine analysis can help to diagnose and monitor diabetes by measuring the levels of glucose in the urine.

* To check for electrolyte imbalances. A urine analysis can help to check for electrolyte imbalances, such as sodium, potassium, and chloride, which can be caused by a variety of conditions, such as dehydration, kidney disease, and certain medications.

* To identify drug use. A urine analysis can help to identify the presence of drugs in the body, such as alcohol, marijuana, and cocaine.

* To monitor certain medical conditions. A urine analysis can be used to monitor certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease, liver disease, and urinary tract disorders.

In addition to these reasons, a urine analysis may also be performed as part of a routine physical examination or as part of the workup for a variety of medical conditions.