glucose-in-urine-test

Why this test may be ordered

• As part of a routine checkup or urinalysis
• If you have symptoms of diabetes (increased thirst and urination, increased hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, numbness or tingling in hands or feet, sores that don't heal, losing weight without trying) and cannot have a blood glucose test
• During pregnancy to check for gestational diabetes
• If your provider suspects a rare kidney disorder that affects glucose filtering

Preparation and collection

You usually don't need any special preparations. Tell your provider about all medicines and supplements you take, as some may affect results. Do not stop any medicine without talking to your provider first.

You will need to provide a urine sample, often using the 'clean catch' method to avoid germs from your skin. Your provider may also give you a home test kit with test strips and instructions.

There is no known risk to having a glucose in urine test.

Understanding results

Your provider will interpret your results. A urine glucose test alone cannot diagnose any condition. If abnormal, your provider will likely order a blood glucose test for more accurate results.

• Normal (little to no glucose in urine): This is the expected finding: little to no glucose in your urine. However, it does not rule out diabetes. Limitation: A normal result does not guarantee you don't have diabetes; you can have a normal urine glucose level even when your blood glucose is high. Next step: If you have symptoms or risk factors for diabetes, your provider may still recommend a blood glucose test.
• High glucose in urine: May be a sign of diabetes (or poor diabetes control if already diagnosed), gestational diabetes during pregnancy, or a rare kidney disorder (such as renal glycosuria or Fanconi syndrome). Certain medicines, vitamin C, or a large meal can also affect results. Limitation: This result alone cannot diagnose any condition. It does not always mean you have a medical problem that needs treatment. Next step: Your provider will likely order blood tests (such as a blood glucose test) to help make a diagnosis. Discuss what your results mean and whether a blood glucose test is needed.

• A urine glucose test is not as accurate as a blood glucose test for diagnosing or monitoring diabetes. A normal result does not rule out diabetes—you can have high blood glucose with little or no glucose in your urine.
• This test alone cannot diagnose any condition. Follow-up blood tests are usually needed. Certain medicines, vitamin C, and eating a large meal may affect results.

What to do next

If your result is abnormal, your provider will order other tests (such as blood glucose tests) to help make a diagnosis. Ask your provider what your results mean and whether you need a blood glucose test for more accurate results.

• What do my urine glucose test results mean?
• Do I need a blood glucose test for a more accurate diagnosis?
• Should I be tested for diabetes or a kidney condition?
• How should I prepare for any follow-up tests?

Evidence source

U.S. National Library of Medicine: glucose-in-urine-test