DIY Builds
Photo by Eugene Lisyuk Pexels Logo Photo: Eugene Lisyuk

Why is my pee heavier than water?

The higher the number of particles in the urine, the higher the urine specific gravity. If there are more particles than in water, urine will be denser, and the specific gravity will be higher. Particles present in the urine may include glucose, proteins, and ketones.

Why does my metal shed leak?
Why does my metal shed leak?

The cold metal in contact with the warm air means that water droplets/condensation forms on the inside surface of the shed roof. The condensation...

Read More »
Can mice climb up metal?
Can mice climb up metal?

But can mice climb metal? Metal, like glass, is a surface that is typically too smooth for mice to climb. The exception here can be some types of...

Read More »

A doctor will use a urine specific gravity test if they suspect that a person is dehydrated, has impaired kidney function, or has a condition that can alter the body’s fluid status, such as diabetes insipidus .

The test involves collecting a urine sample for testing in a laboratory.

A urine specific gravity test compares the density of urine with the density of water. It allows doctors to see the concentration of particles present in urine. Doctors consider the result of a urine specific gravity test to be normal if it is within the range 1.003–1.030 . However, doctors cannot specify low, acceptable, or high values because many factors can affect urine composition. Urine specific gravity is only one measure of health. If a doctor identifies an unusual result, they may recommend further testing to determine if an underlying condition is causing the urine changes.

urine culture

urine osmolality

urine pH

ketone testing

Results from these other tests will help make an accurate diagnosis.

Learn more about urinalysis here.

Causes of high readings

High specific gravity suggests that the concentration of urine is too high. This can be a sign of dehydration, and the doctor may recommend drinking more clear fluids.

Conditions that cause high specific gravity include:

dehydration

diarrhea or vomiting resulting in dehydration

congestive heart failure

shock

High levels of certain substances in the urine can also cause high specific gravity.

Substances include:

glucose

proteins

red or white blood cells

Learn more about red blood cells in the urine here.

Causes of low readings

Low specific gravity suggests that urine is too diluted. The person may be drinking too much fluid or have a condition that makes them thirsty.

Conditions that cause low specific gravity include:

Hyponatremia can result from some of these conditions. If a person has hyponatremia, sodium levels in the body are too low.

Learn what happens where there is too much sodium in the body.

Other factors that can affect results

Other factors that may give an inaccurate result include :

exposing the sample to light and temperature, which can change the composition of some particles

bacterial growth

alkaline pH

glucose, which can affect pH

contrast agents used in scans and other procedures

recent exercise

some foods, such as beetroot, rhubarb, blackberries, and food colorings

some medications, including ibuprofen, chloroquine, and metronidazole

Learn more about the pH levels of urine here.

Urine specific gravity and urine color

If a person has concerns about whether they are consuming enough fluid, checking their urine color may help. Urine tends to be darker and has higher specific gravity when a person does not drink enough fluids. Urine is lighter and has lower specific gravity when a person is well-hydrated. If a person continues to have dark urine after consuming extra fluid, it may be time to speak with a doctor. Urine specific gravity tests can give a more precise measurement of the urine’s concentration than just looking at the color alone.

Learn more about what different colors of urine can mean.

Do they make heaters that run off batteries?
Do they make heaters that run off batteries?

Battery based heaters, or hand warmers, are a great portable option for sporting events, camping, or being outdoors during cold weather. The...

Read More »
What oil do you use on pallet wood?
What oil do you use on pallet wood?

Hemp oil is a solid choice for projects with pallet wood because it nourishes rough pieces without destroying their durability. Jul 26, 2021

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Who gets the 400 energy payment?

From October 2022 to March 2023, most homes in England, Scotland and Wales will get a £400 non-repayable discount on their electricity bills. This is known as the Energy Bills Support Scheme, and it will be delivered in six monthly instalments. 2 days ago

02

If your supplier has your correct details, they should have already let you know how you’ll get your discount, which will be either through vouchers or a credit. If you get discount vouchers, these will be sent to you by text message, email or post. The vouchers will usually be valid for three months. However, all Energy Bill Support Scheme vouchers will have expired by 30 June 2023. This means that vouchers issued after March may be valid for less than three months. Once a voucher expires, you won’t be able to add it to your meter. Your electricity pre-payment meter can usually hold a limit of around £250. But make sure you contact your supplier to check the exact amount of money your meter can hold, as it can vary slightly. This limit means that you won’t be able to save up all your vouchers and use them in one go. Alternatively, you might have been told by your supplier that you’ll be credited automatically when you top up at your usual top-up point. Get in touch with your supplier now if they haven’t already contacted you about how you’ll get your discount.

Do Lifetime sheds leak?
Do Lifetime sheds leak?

IMPORTANT! Regardless of which of these foundations you choose to suit your purposes, if the surface is not properly leveled, your Lifetime Shed...

Read More »
What adds the most value to a home?
What adds the most value to a home?

What Home Improvements Add the Most Value? Kitchen Improvements. If adding value to your home is the goal, the kitchen is likely the place to...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
Can I use sand under concrete slab?
Can I use sand under concrete slab?

As a general rule, stay away from using sand as a subbase. You're better off using gravel; your concrete will last longer and have less of a chance...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
How much would it cost to build a 12x24 garage?
How much would it cost to build a 12x24 garage?

A 1-car garage will cost between $7,500 and $14,250 to build. The most common sizes for a one-car garage are 12' x 24' and 14' x 28'. One car...

Read More »