Urine density, also known as urine specific gravity, is a measurement of the concentration of solutes in the urine. It indicates the kidney’s ability to concentrate or dilute urine and acts as a marker of hydration status and kidney function. Although normal values may vary, abnormalities can suggest dehydration, overhydration, or underlying kidney conditions.
Testing urine density is beneficial for individuals with kidney problems, those experiencing symptoms of dehydration or overhydration, and patients with conditions like diabetes that can affect kidney function. It’s also useful for monitoring the effectiveness of treatment for kidney diseases and for evaluating the body’s water balance and hydration status.
Improving urine density involves correcting the underlying cause of abnormal concentration. For high urine density, usually due to dehydration, increasing fluid intake is essential. This means drinking more water and other hydrating fluids. It’s also important to address any factors that increase fluid loss, like excessive sweating, and to manage conditions like diabetes that can affect urine concentration.