What is specific gravity of urine?
The specific gravity of urine is a measure of its concentration compared to pure water. It indicates how well the kidneys are concentrating or diluting the urine, which can reflect hydration status and overall kidney function. This measurement is important for evaluating how effectively the body is managing fluid balance.
The specific gravity of urine typically ranges from about 1.005 to 1.030. This range can vary slightly depending on the individual and their health condition. Lower specific gravity values, closer to 1.005, indicate that the urine is more diluted. This usually occurs when a person is well-hydrated or has a condition that causes excessive fluid intake or loss.
Higher specific gravity values, closer to 1.030, suggest that the urine is more concentrated. This often indicates that the body is retaining water due to dehydration or other conditions that reduce fluid intake or increase fluid loss. Elevated specific gravity can also be a sign of kidney dysfunction, where the kidneys are not effectively filtering or concentrating urine.
Routine urinalysis often includes a specific gravity test to help assess hydration levels, diagnose kidney conditions, and monitor overall health. Abnormal specific gravity results might prompt further investigation or treatment to address underlying health issues.
