What is a ketones urine test?

Ketones in urine test measures ketone levels in your urine. Normally, the cells in your body use b

lood glucose  for energy. It comes from the food you eat. Your body breaks down most of that food into glucose and releases it into your bloodstream. If your cells can’t get enough glucose(hungry or exercise or disease) , your body breaks down fat for energy instead. This produces an acid called ketones, which can build up in your blood and urine.

Having some ketones in your urine is normal. But high ketone levels in your urine may be a sign that your blood is too acidic. This condition is called ketoacidosis. The most common type of ketoacidosis is a complication of diabetes called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Diabetic ketoacidosis is a medical emergency that often develops quickly and can lead to a coma and be life-threatening.

If you have diabetes, a ketones in urine test can help find high ketone levels early, so you can get treatment right away. Home tests are available if your health care provider recommends frequent testing.

What is it used for?

A ketones in urine test is often used to help monitor people who are more likely to develop high levels of ketones. You are more at risk if you have a medical condition, diet, or exercise habits that cause your body to use fat for energy instead of glucose, such as:

• Diabetes. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening condition caused by high ketone levels. It’s most common in people who have type 1 diabetes. But people who have type 2 diabetes can also develop DKA.
• Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts a long time.
• Alcohol use disorder (AUD), which can cause alcoholic ketoacidosis.
• Eating disorders and starvation.
• Certain digestive diseases.
• Eating a “keto diet,” which is low in carbohydrates (foods that supply glucose for energy).
• Exercising too hard for a long time.
• Pregnancy.

Why do I need a ketones in urine test?

Your provider may order a ketones in urine test if you have diabetes or other conditions that increase your risk for developing high ketone levels. You may also need this test if you have symptoms of ketoacidosis, which may include:

Early symptoms of ketoacidosis:

• Urinating (peeing) a lot
• Extreme hunger or thirst
• Dehydration
• Headache

Severe symptoms of ketoacidosis:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Pain in your abdomen (belly)
• Confusion
• Trouble breathing
• Feeling very tired or sleepy
• Fruity-smelling breath

If you have severe symptoms of ketoacidosis, seek immediate medical help. Large amounts of ketones can be life-threatening