Calcium, Spot Urine Test
About Calcium, Spot Urine test
Calcium, spot urine test is used to determine the amount of calcium in the urine. Calcium is used by your body in a variety of processes. It is one of the most vital nutrients in your body that is required for strong bones and teeth.
Your body's calcium levels are controlled by your parathyroid gland. When your body needs more calcium, it releases more of it from the bones. Excess calcium is eliminated from your body through urine. Excess of calcium in the urine can lead to formation of kidney stones. Thus, getting this test done is recommended to aid in the diagnosis of kidney stones or parathyroid disease.
Calcium, Spot Urine test is also known as
Urinalysis (calcium)
Symptoms of kidney stones
Pain in lower back
Nausea and vomiting
Blood in urine (hematuria)
Painful urination (dysuria)
Frequent urination
Fever
Chills
Cloudy or bad-smelling urine
When is Calcium, Spot Urine test done? This test is done to determine
Dietary intake of calcium from various sources (e.g. milk)
Development of kidney stones
Evaluation of problems of the parathyroid gland
Detection of certain bone diseases
Preparation for the test
No special preparation is required for this test.
Interpretation of test results
|
Sample |
Male |
Female |
|
Calcium, Spot Urine |
0.9-37.9 milligrams per decilitre (mg/dL) |
0.5-35.7 milligrams per decilitre (mg/dL) |
Increased levels of calcium, spot urine value indicate that the individual is consuming a diet high in calcium, which can result in kidney stones, increased mobilization of calcium from the bones, or conditions associated with hypercalcaemia. Decreased levels may be a sign of malnutrition.
FAQs
How is the sample collected for the calcium, spot urine test?
A urine sample is used for this test. You will be given a sterile container by your healthcare provider to collect a urine sample. Midstream urine collection is the proper technique for taking a urine sample. The first few urine drops should be discarded because they could contain microorganisms that are present on the genital surface. It is advised that you clean the area around your genitalia before taking a urine sample.
If I am on certain medications, do I need to stop taking them before this test?
Before the test, you might be asked to avoid certain medications such as supplements, antacids etc. for a few days. Never discontinue taking any medication without first consulting your doctor. If you need to follow any special instructions, your healthcare provider will inform you.
Are there any risks associated with the calcium, spot urine test sample collection?
Urine sample collection for calcium, spot urine test does not pose any risks.
Are there any drugs that can interfere with the test results?
There are some drugs that may increase urine calcium levels, including anticonvulsants, loop diuretics, and carbonic anhydrase inhibitor diuretics. There are also drugs that lower urine calcium levels such as adrenocorticosteroids, thiazide diuretics, and oral contraceptives.
How can I lower the calcium levels in my urine?
If your calcium, spot urine test shows high values of calcium, you can lower it by consuming a diet that focuses more on vegetables and fruits and less on animal products such as red meat and eggs.
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