Urine is sterile when produced by a healthy body but loses its sterility when expelled due to contamination from bacteria in the air and collection container. It is safe to drink in small quantities, but repeatedly drinking it reintroduces waste products into the body. The high water content of urine can be treated and recovered […]
Maple syrup urine disease is a rare genetic disorder that prevents the body from processing amino acids properly. It can be fatal if not treated with a lifelong restrictive diet. Symptoms include poor feeding, vomiting, lethargy, and seizures. Treatment involves a limited diet and protein supplements. Genetic counseling can prevent the disease. Maple syrup urine […]
Researchers have created a rubber-like substance from urea and fatty acids found in urine, which has self-healing qualities and minimal environmental impact. The process is labor-intensive, but the resulting product has potential for use in various industries. Not only is it possible to make gum out of urine, it’s already been done. Researchers have developed […]
Medications and medical conditions can affect amylase levels in urine, which can indicate problems related to the pancreas. Certain drugs can cause amylase to rise, leading to inaccurate measurements. A clean-catch urine test or a 24-hour urine test can measure amylase levels. Medications and medical conditions are two factors that can affect amylase levels in […]
Military urinalysis is a urine test to detect illegal drug use or make a medical diagnosis. Service members are kept in a controlled area until they provide an adequate urine sample, which is then transported to a laboratory for testing. Soldiers may be subjected to random tests without notice. If traces of illegal drugs are […]
Urine pregnancy tests detect the hormone hCG in urine or blood after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterus. A woman can take a home test about a week after missing a period, but false positives or negatives can occur. Tests cost less than $20 and are available at drugstores or online. A urine pregnancy […]
Ketosis and urine are connected as ketone bodies are present in urine when the body burns fat for energy. Testing urine for ketones can indicate if a patient has ketosis, which can be caused by fasting, diabetes, or a ketogenic diet. Changes in urine or breathing can be a sign of a problem, and home […]
Red blood cells in urine can indicate bladder or kidney problems. Hematuria, or abnormal levels of red blood cells, can have various causes, including infection, injury, or tumors. Treatment depends on the underlying cause, and follow-up testing is important to ensure complete resolution. Red blood cells in the urine can be a sign of a […]
In survival situations, finding potable water is crucial. Distilling urine can be done by boiling it in a covered container over a fire or through passive solar heating. The latter involves digging a hole, placing a clean vessel in the center, and covering the hole with a plastic sheet. Water condenses overnight and during the […]
A urine alcohol test detects whether a person has consumed alcohol and can determine the time frame of ingestion. It is commonly used for workplace safety and probation. The test can detect alcohol in the urine for 6-24 hours after consumption, and an extended version can detect alcohol use up to 5 days prior. Other […]
Urine was historically used to extract saltpeter, a crucial ingredient in gunpowder, due to its high nitrate content. Other ingredients like coal and sulfur were also needed. Urine has also been used as fertilizer, pest repellent, and in fabric preparation. Urine can in fact be used in the production of gunpowder, and has historically been […]
Epithelial cells in urine can provide diagnostic information, but it depends on the type and numbers present. Squamous cells are common and may indicate contamination, transitional cells can indicate inflammation or infection, and renal tubular cells in large numbers indicate a kidney problem. Further testing may be necessary. Epithelial cells in urine can provide some […]
Urinary leakage, or incontinence, can be caused by physical pressure, pre-existing conditions, or anatomical problems with the bladder. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, bladder training, exercises, and surgery. If left untreated, it can lead to complications and prevent the diagnosis of underlying conditions. Urinary leakage, also known as urinary incontinence, is a condition in which […]
Urine osmolality measures urine concentration and can help diagnose conditions such as heart failure, diabetes insipidus, and kidney diseases. A midstream urine sample is taken, and a serum osmolality test may also be required. High osmolality with increased urine output can indicate diabetes mellitus, while low osmolality can indicate kidney disease or overhydration. Diabetes insipidus […]
Urine tests can detect legal and illegal drugs, and the only way to pass is to have no drugs in your system. Flushing, dilution, adulteration, masking, and urine replacement are illegal methods to pass a test, but they are unreliable and can be easily detected. Urine tests for medications are often given to people due […]
Maple syrup urine disease is a rare genetic disorder that causes sweet-smelling urine due to the body’s inability to break down certain amino acids. It can cause severe brain damage and even lead to life-threatening seizures or coma. Treatment involves a low protein diet and strict adherence to doctor’s guidelines. Maple syrup urine disease is […]
A urine organic acid test screens for inherited metabolic disorders, detecting abnormally high levels of metabolic products that may indicate an inborn error of metabolism. Symptoms of organic acidemias include lethargy, seizures, vomiting, and failure to thrive. Treatment includes a restricted diet, amino acid replacement, and vitamin therapy. A urine organic acid test is done […]
Pus in urine can be caused by bacterial infections, urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted diseases, or abscesses. UTIs are a common cause and can be prevented with better hygiene. Pregnant women should seek medical attention if they notice pus in their urine. Treatment usually involves antibiotics and keeping the genital region clean and dry. Invasive […]
Urine cytology is a painless diagnostic test that examines cells in the urine to identify signs of disease, such as cancer or infection. Specimens are collected by asking for a clean sample or using a catheter. Further testing is needed to determine the cause of any abnormalities found. Urine cytology is a microscopic examination of […]
A urine culture test can diagnose the cause of a urinary tract infection, and a sensitivity test can help doctors determine the best treatment. The clean catch method is used to collect a urine sample, and abnormal results may indicate an infection. Women, diabetics, and those with urinary tract blockages are at higher risk. Symptoms […]
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