Urinalysis

A urinalysis is a routine urine test that checks for signs of infection, kidney problems, diabetes, and other health conditions by examining the color, chemical content, and microscopic components of your urine. It is a broad screening tool, meaning a single abnormal result does not confirm a diagnosis but may prompt your doctor to order additional tests. Many factors—including hydration, diet, exercise, and medications—can temporarily affect results. Your healthcare provider will interpret your urinalysis results alongside your symptoms and medical history to determine whether any follow-up is needed.

When elevated: Abnormal urinalysis findings may indicate urinary tract infection, glomerulonephritis, nephrotic or nephritic syndrome, acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, diabetic nephropathy, urolithiasis, bladder or renal malignancy, or systemic conditions such as diabetes mellitus, liver disease, or hemolytic disorders. When low: A normal urinalysis is generally reassuring and argues against significant renal parenchymal disease, active urinary tract infection, or major metabolic derangements at the time of testing; however, it does not entirely exclude early or intermittent pathology.

Urinalysis helps athletes monitor hydration status, detect early signs of overtraining syndrome, and screen for exercise-associated hematuria or proteinuria. It's particularly useful during high-volume training phases to confirm kidney function remains normal under training stress and to identify urinary tract infections before they impact performance or recovery.