How to Interpret Dipstick Urinalysis Results

Dipstick urinalysis is an easy, inexpensive way to see check for certain problems with your bladder and kidneys, as well as some problems with the digestive system. Over-the-counter urine dipsticks typically have between two and 10 chemical test squares, which may include pH, specific gravity, leukocytes, nitrites, protein, glucose, ketones, urobilinogen, bilirubin and blood. The results of each test are interpreted as normal or possibly abnormal. Talk with your doctor if you have any abnormal results on a dipstick urinalysis.

Specific Gravity and pH

Specific gravity is a general measure of how concentrated the urine is. Specific gravity is normally 1.003 to 1.030 and is influenced by how hydrated a person is. High values may indicate dehydration. Low values may indicate poor kidney function. Urine pH reflects how acidic or alkaline the urine is. Normal values are 4.6 to 8.0. A high pH may indicate a urinary tract infection, kidney problem or a pH imbalance in the bloodstream.

Leukocytes and Nitrites

How to Read a Urinalysis

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Leukocytes are white blood cells, which are not normally found in urine. Any white blood cells could indicate an infection or another problem in the urinary tract. Nitrites are chemicals produced by certain types of bacteria, such E. coli. The presence of nitrites usually indicates an infection of the urinary system.

Glucose and Ketones

Glucose is blood sugar, which is not normally not found in urine. Glucose in the urine is often a sign of diabetes, although there are other possible causes. Ketones are a product of fat breakdown and are not typically found in the urine. Their presence may indicate poorly controlled diabetes. Ketones may also be present with fasting, dieting, prolonged vomiting or other metabolic problems.

Blood and Protein

Color of Urine Strips for Ketosis

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Blood is not normally present in the urine. Bleeding in the urinary system is often due to an infection or kidney stone 3. Menstrual blood can also contaminate the urine and cause a positive test. Protein is normally not found in urine. The presence of protein in the urine may indicate a urinary tract infection or kidney problem.

Bilirubin and Urobilinogen

Bilirubin and urobilinogen are byproducts of the normal breakdown of red blood cells. These chemicals are not normally found in urine. The presence of bilirubin or urobilinogen in the urine may indicate abnormally increased breakdown of red blood cells, liver disease or a blockage of bile flow into the intestines.

A Word of Caution

A dipstick urinalysis is a preliminary test and a number of factors can potentially interfere with the accuracy of the results 3. For example, certain medications, high amounts of vitamin C and even some foods that change the color of your urine may lead to inaccurate results.