Urine 24-hour volume

What is Urine 24-Hour Volume?

Urine 24-hour volume is a diagnostic test used to to measure the total amount of urine produced by the body over a period of 24 hours. It involves collecting all the urine produced in a 24 hour period by the body, and then measuring its volume. This test is also referred to as the 24-hour urine volume test.

Preparing for a 24-hour Urine Collection

Before starting a 24 hour urine test for urine volume, you should clear all the details regarding the test procedure with your doctor. Your doctor may instruct you to make certain dietary and lifestyle changes before the test. Also make sure that you tell your doctor if you are currently taking any drugs, as there may be an interference.

• Empty your bladder completely & discard the first urine sample.
• Start collecting the next urine sample in a special container provided by your doctor. Collect each sample separately in the same container. The container should have a preservative, so that the sample can be preserved for later assessment.
• Mention the time of collection of each urine sample.
• After collecting the last sample, stop collecting and take the container to the lab for analysis.

Types of Urine 24-Hour Volume Test

There are two types of urine 24-hour volume test:

• Formaldehyde Test: The urines collected in this test are preserved with formaldehyde to stabilize it for accurate testing. The formaldehyde test is mostly done when a person is admitted in a hospital or in cases where immediate diagnosis is required.
• Urine Test Strip Test: In this test, a urine sample is collected and tested using a urine test strip. The results are usually available within minutes. This type of test is mostly done for routine monitoring of urine volume.

Risks of Urine 24-Hour Volume Test

The urine 24-hour volume test is a very safe and non-invasive procedure with minimal risks. However, some people may experience mild discomfort when collecting the urine samples, or during the test itself. Additionally, people who have allergies to the preservatives used in the formaldehyde test may experience an allergic reaction.

Why Get a Urine 24-Hour Volume Test?

The urine 24-hour volume test is usually ordered by a doctor to assess the functioning of the kidneys. This test helps in diagnosing and monitoring certain kidney conditions such as chronic kidney disease, hypertension, diabetes, and urinary tract infections. The urine 24-hour volume test can also help in monitoring the effectiveness of medications for kidney diseases. It is also sometimes used to diagnose pre-existing medical conditions such as an enlarged prostate or urinary obstruction.

When Is a Urine 24-Hour Volume Test Ordered?

A urine 24-hour volume test may be ordered by a doctor when they suspect that a person is suffering from any type of kidney disorder. It may also be ordered to monitor the progression of existing kidney diseases and to monitor the effectiveness of medications that are being taken for these diseases. Additionally, the urine 24-hour volume test may be ordered to diagnose pre-existing medical conditions such as an enlarged prostate or urinary obstruction.