OVERVIEW:
The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline body environment is. The human body works continuously
to control the pH of the blood and other fluids. The body’s pH balance is also known as acid-base
balance. Acidosis and alkalosis describe the abnormal conditions that result from an imbalance in
the pH of the blood caused by an excess of acid or alkali. This imbalance is typically caused by some
underlying condition or disease.
What is this test?
This laboratory test is performed on a urine sample to measure its acidity. It is due to an imbalance in the composition of urine.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed:
- To determine the risk of kidney stones
- To determine the treatment plan for UTI’s
- To diagnose renal tubular acidosis or pyelonephritis.
WHAT DOES THE TEST MEASURE?
A urine pH level test is a test that analyzes the acidity or alkalinity of a urine sample. The pH is a measure
of how acidic or alkaline (basic) the urine is. A urine pH of 4 is strongly acidic, 7 is neutral (neither acidic
nor alkaline), and 9 is strongly alkaline. Sometimes the pH of urine is affected by certain treatments.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
How is this test performed?
This test is performed on a urine sample.
What are the risks associated with this test?
There is no significant risk associated with this test.
Is there any preparation required before the test?
No preparation required before this test.
What is metabolic acidosis?
Metabolic acidosis occurs when the body produces too much acid. It can also occur when the kidneys
are not removing enough acid from the body.
What is metabolic alkalosis?
Metabolic alkalosis is a metabolic condition in which the pH of tissue is elevated beyond the normal
range
INTERPRETATION OF THE RESULT:
If the Ph of urine sample less than 7, this could indicate an environment conducive to kidney stones.
Other conditions that prefer an acidic environment are:
- acidosis
- dehydration
- diabetic ketoacidosis
- diarrhea
- starvation
- The pH greater than 7 indicates a basic environment and the reason could be:
- gastric suctioning that takes away stomach acids
- kidney failure
- kidney tubular acidosis
- pyloric obstruction
- respiratory alkalosis
- urinary tract infection
- vomiting
