So, you want to know more about urinalysis or a urine test.
A urine test gives your doctor a better understanding of why you're not feeling well, why you're having certain symptoms, or can even show that you're in very good health.
For this simple test, you will provide a sample of your urine, usually in a cup.
What kind of things might show up in the results?
First, white blood cells are not normally found in urine.
So, if they are found during this test, you may have a urinary tract infection.
Next, substances such as protein in the urine may mean that your kidneys are not working well.
Finally, red blood cells in the urine may mean you have an injury.
The injury might be a kidney stone or some other object in the urinary tract ...
or a damaged organ.
The results of a test can help your doctor figure out if you have an infection or other problem, or if treatment for a condition is working.
But this test is rarely used alone to diagnose a disease ...
Your doctor will consider any symptoms you might have along with other test results to make a diagnosis or determine if you need treatment.
Knowing more about why a test is done and what the results mean can help you and your doctor better understand what's happening inside your body ... and what may be your next step in treatment.
Remember, if you have questions or concerns about your results, be sure to talk to your doctor.