A urinalysis is a test of your urine. Doctors use urine tests to find issues including UTI and diabetes. Learn about the test and what it checks for.

Urinalysis

Also called: UA.

What is Urinalysis?

A urinalysis is a test of your urine. It is often done to check for a urinary tract infection, kidney problems, or diabetes. You may also have one during a checkup, if you are admitted to the hospital, before you have surgery, or if you are pregnant. It can also monitor some medical conditions and treatments. A urinalysis involves checking the urine for: Its color Its appearance (whether it is clear or cloudy) Any odor The pH level (acidity) Whether there are substances that are not normally in urine, such as blood, too much protein, glucose, ketones, and bilirubin Whether there are cells, crystals, and casts (tube-shaped proteins) Whether it contains bacteria or other germs

Source: MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine (NIH) — read the full NIH article.

Educational summary of an authoritative source — not medical advice. Please see your doctor for diagnosis, and seek urgent care for any severe or sudden symptoms.