Urinalysis

What are the symptoms? Many people don't recognize the onset of diabetes, largely because initial symptoms are not particularly severe. For Type 1 diabetes, those symptoms may include frequent urination, unusual thirst, hunger, sudden weight loss or extreme fatigue and irritability. In addition to those symptoms, Type 2 diabetes can cause slow-healing cuts or bruises, tingling or numbness in the extremities, or recurring skin, gum or bladder infections. Be aware that some people with Type 2 diabetes—and most women with gestational diabetes—never exhibit symptoms.

What does the test include? The HealthCheckUSA urinalysis test involves taking a small urine sample. Because glucose is not typically found in urine, any excess detected by this test may show an abnormally high blood sugar level. In addition to diabetes, urinalysis is also an excellent screening tool for other diseases and medical conditions, including kidney stones, urinary tract infections and liver disease. If your results show abnormally high blood sugar levels, see your doctor for further evaluation.

Who should be tested? The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends diabetes testing for adults with a body mass index over 25 and at least one added risk factor. Those added risks include a close relative with diabetes, women who developed gestational diabetes during pregnancy, women who delivered a baby weighing more than nine pounds, high blood pressure or cholesterol, heart disease, sedentary lifestyle, or a history of polycystic ovary syndrome. The ADA also advises anyone over age 45 to test for the disease. If the results are normal, consider testing again every three years. Additionally, consider testing if you experience one or more of the symptoms noted above. Early detection and treatment can help you avoid serious medical complications.