Want to protect your kidneys? Urine luck!

This post was written by Leslie Chaparro, MLS (ASCP), SH(ASCP), Laboratory Hematology Specialist, Parkview Health.

March is National Kidney Month, a time to raise awareness about the kidneys and the steps we can take to protect these hardworking organs. One of the simplest yet most effective ways to assess kidney function is through urinalysis. This non-invasive lab test provides valuable information about how well yours are working and can help detect potential issues before they become serious.

 

Why are your kidneys so important?

Your kidneys are like the body's natural filters. Every day, these bean-shaped organs process about 50 gallons of blood to remove waste, balance fluids and keep electrolytes in check. They also regulate blood pressure and produce red blood cells. When they aren't functioning properly, waste can build up, leading to serious health problems.

Kidney disease often develops silently. By the time symptoms show up, significant damage may have already occurred. That's why early detection, through tests like urinalysis, is key.
 

What can a urinalysis tell you about your kidney health?

A urinalysis is a diagnostic test that examines the content, concentration and composition of urine. In addition to detecting kidney-related red flags, it can indicate a urinary tract infection, diabetes, and other health conditions.

This test can detect early signs of kidney damage and track disease progression over time by analyzing changes in color, composition, and microscopic elements in the urine. A urinalysis is typically divided into three parts. Here's what each step can reveal about your health:

• Visual examination:

  • Color: Normal urine is pale yellow to colorless. Dark-colored urine can indicate dehydration or filtration problems.

  • Clarity: Normal urine should be clear. Cloudy or foamy urine can indicate problems like protein in the urine, which is an early sign of kidney disease.

• Chemical analysis: Test strips with special chemical pads measure substances in urine. When dipped in the urine, the strips change color depending on the concentration of specific substances present.

  • Protein: Proteinuria is a sign that the kidneys might not be filtering efficiently, which can be an early warning sign of kidney disease.

  • Glucose: Elevated levels could be an indication of diabetes.

  • pH: Urine that is too acidic or too basic can point to various health conditions. Diet and medications can also affect the pH of urine.

  • Blood: Hematuria could indicate kidney stones, infection, or even more serious conditions.

  • Specific gravity: A measurement of the concentration of dissolved substances in the urine; it reflects how well your kidneys are able to concentrate or dilute urine.

  • Leukocyte esterase: Reveals the presence of white blood cells, which can suggest an infection.

• Microscopic examination: A small amount of urine is examined under a microscope for formed elements such as:

  • Bacteria

  • Crystals

  • Cells: White blood cells, red blood cells, or cells that line the urinary tract.
     

Who should get a urinalysis?

Routine checkups may include a urinalysis, but some people may need to pay extra attention to kidney health, especially if they:

• Have high blood pressure or diabetes (two major risk factors for kidney disease).

• Have a family history of kidney problems.

• Experience swelling in the legs, fatigue or changes in urination.

• Are taking medications that affect kidney function, such as NSAIDs (ibuprofen and naproxen).
   

How to prepare for your test

Usually, no special preparation is needed before a urinalysis. However, there are a few things you can do to ensure accurate results:

• Hydrate normally. Drink a normal amount of fluid before the test, but avoid excessive hydration, which may dilute the urine and affect the results.

• Avoid certain foods or drugs. Some foods and medications are known to interfere with this test. For example, beets can change the color of your urine. Always follow instructions given to you by your healthcare provider.

• Avoid strenuous activity. Excessive physical activity before the test can affect protein levels and other substances in your urine.

• Timing. The first urine of the day is often preferred as it is more concentrated and can provide more accurate results.

• Menstrual cycle. If you are menstruating, inform your healthcare provider, as blood contamination may affect the results.

• Sexual activity. Avoid sexual intercourse 24 hours before the test to prevent contamination with sperm or vaginal secretions.

• Clean sample collection. Use a clean sample container and collect the sample midstream to avoid contamination.
   

How to collect a urine sample

A clean catch urine sample prevents bacteria from the skin from contaminating the specimen. This is important for accurate results, especially when testing for urinary tract infections or other conditions. The provider should supply the patient with cleansing towelettes and a sterile specimen container.

• Start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

• Use the cleansing towelettes to clean the genital area thoroughly.

  • If male: Wipe the head of the penis in a single motion with the first towelette. Repeat with the second towelette. If not circumcised, hold the foreskin back before cleansing.

  • If female: Separate the labia. Wipe inner labial folds front to back in a single motion with the first towelette. With the second towelette, wipe down through the center of labial folds. Keep labial separated.

• Begin urinating in the toilet.

• After the initial urine flow, place the sterile cup in the urine stream to collect the sample. Avoid touching the inside of the container.

• Once you have collected enough urine, remove the container and finish urinating in the toilet.

• Secure the lid on the container and wash your hands again.

• If the container is not already labeled with your full legal name, date of birth, and date and time of collection, please do so. Alternatively, you can give the container to your healthcare provider to label in your presence.
   

Take action for National Kidney Month

Here are some ways to take control of your kidney health:

1. Stay hydrated. Drinking enough water helps your kidneys function efficiently.

2. Eat kidney-friendly foods. Reduce processed foods, limit salt and add more fruit and veggies to your diet.

3. Get regular checkups. If you're at risk, talk to your doctor about routine urinalysis and kidney function tests.

4. Know your numbers. Keep track of your blood pressure and blood sugar levels- they directly impact kidney health.

5. Aim for a healthy weight. Speak with your primary care provider about what that looks like for you and how to achieve it.

6. Reduce stress and make physical activity part of your routine. Aim for 30 minutes each day.

7. Make time for sleep. Most healthy adults need between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night.

8. Quit smoking. Parkview offers Freedom from Smoking®, a free program developed by the American Lung Association® to help you quit smoking.

Your kidneys work 24/7 to keep you healthy, and a simple urinalysis can provide early warning signs of trouble before it's too late. This National Kidney Month, take a proactive approach to early detection and kidney care by scheduling an appointment with your primary care provider, making a small lifestyle change, or just drinking that extra glass of water.

Your kidneys will thank you!

 

 

 

To learn more about Parkview's Lab & Diagnostic Imaging services, visit our website here.