Concerns about Dilute Urine for uACR Testing
I’m a 37-year-old man weighing 100 kg and standing 192 cm tall. I have been diagnosed with type II diabetes for more than 15 years and am currently taking Forxiga and metformin. My latest HBA1C reading stands at 5.6, while my eGFR is measured at 116. A recent urinalysis did not indicate the presence of protein. However, the results of my uACR test revealed the following: the level of albumin in my urine was less than 1 mg/L, with urine creatinine being below 1.5 mmol/L. It was noted that the urine albumin is at less than the detectable limit, and the urine appears very diluted. I have been advised to conduct a follow-up test, ideally using the first morning urine sample. Unfortunately, my general practitioner is unavailable for a month, leaving me uncertain about whether these results are a cause for concern or not. I would greatly appreciate any insights or opinions on this matter. Thank you!
Answers (1)
7/19/2025, 8:50:35 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's great that you're proactively seeking information about your health. Your recent lab results and concerns about dilute urine in relation to your uACR (urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio) test are understandable, especially given your history with type II diabetes.
Main Points:
- Your uACR results indicate very low albumin, which generally suggests low risk of kidney issues.
- Dilute urine may not necessarily indicate a problem but can affect uACR readings.
- Retesting with a first morning urine sample is a good next step for more accurate results.
Explanation:
-
Understanding Your Results:
- Albumin Levels: A uACR of less than 1 mg/L means that very little albumin is present in your urine, which is a positive sign as it indicates that your kidneys are likely functioning well.
- Dilute Urine: If your urine is very diluted (meaning it's more water than waste), it can sometimes make it harder to detect albumin accurately. This is why the first morning urine sample, which is typically more concentrated, is recommended for follow-up.
-
Your Current Health Status:
- With an HbA1c of 5.6, your blood sugar levels appear to be well-managed, which is important for preventing kidney damage related to diabetes. Your eGFR is also within a normal range, indicating good kidney function.
Next Steps:
-
Follow Up Testing:
- Perform the follow-up test using a first morning urine sample as advised. This will provide more relevant information regarding your kidney function related to diabetes management.
-
Hydration Awareness:
- Be mindful of your hydration levels leading up to the test. Avoid significant fluid intake right before the test to ensure that your urine is appropriately concentrated for more accurate results.
-
Monitoring Symptoms:
- Keep an eye on any changes in your health. If you notice any symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or changes in urination patterns, note them down as they might be relevant for your healthcare provider later.
-
Stay Informed:
- Read up on kidney health, especially as it relates to diabetes. Understanding how to maintain kidney health can help you be more proactive.
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Contact a Healthcare Provider if Needed:
- If your general practitioner’s absence extends, and you're feeling uncertain about your results, consider reaching out to another healthcare provider or a diabetes nurse educator who can give you quicker guidance.
It's reassuring that your initial results seem positive, but the follow-up is crucial for monitoring your health. Stay proactive, and don’t hesitate to gather any further information or ask questions as new concerns arise.
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