Glucose in Urine Test

A glucose in urine test checks for high levels of sugar in urine associated with diabetes and other medical conditions. It is also known as a glucose level test and is usually done as part of a medical evaluation.

Types of Glucose in Urine Tests

There are two common types of glucose in urine tests performed:

Urine glucose test strips which use a special paper strip treated with a substance that changes color when in the presence of glucose.
An urinalysis which uses a machine to check the glucose levels and can be used to diagnose other conditions as well such as infections and kidney problems.

Preparation for the Test

No special preparation is needed to prepare for this test. However, certain medications, such as certain antibiotics or steroids, can affect the results. Your doctor may suggest stopping these medications several days before the test. Also, certain food items can cause falsely high glucose levels in the urine, so you may be asked to avoid these items, such as sugary drinks and sugary snacks, for several hours before the test.

Procedure for the Test

This test is usually done in a doctor’s office or laboratory. During the test:

A urine sample will be collected in a container.
The sample will be read using a glucose test strip or a machine.
The results will be compared to the standard range of glucose levels.
If your results are outside of the normal range, your doctor may order additional tests.

Risks and Complications

The tests are relatively safe and simple, and complications are rare. It is possible, however, that the results are inaccurate due to various reasons such as improper sample collection or storage.

Why is the Test Done?

Glucose in urine tests are done to detect high levels of glucose in the urine which may indicate diabetes, or other medical problems such as kidney problems or pancreatic disorders. This test is also done after a person has diabetes to measure how well the person's diabetes is controlled and to make sure that no serious complications are developing.

When is the Test Done?

The test is usually done when a person has symptoms of diabetes, such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, fatigue, and blurry vision. It is also usually done if a person has a family history of diabetes. The test is also done as part of a routine physical examination or during a pregnancy.