A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that affects any part of your urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria, but some can be due to viruses or fungi. UTIs are more common in women than men, and they can occur at any age.
The UTI screen is a combination of various tests aimed at diagnosing a UTI and understanding its impact on the patient's health. It includes a Complete Blood Count (CBC) test, an Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) test, a urine culture, a complete urine examination, and a fasting blood glucose test. Together, these tests provide valuable information about the patient's immune response, the presence and type of bacteria in the urine, urinary health, and blood glucose levels. The fasting blood glucose test is particularly important as people with diabetes are at a higher risk of UTIs.
Preparations RequiredBefore your test, you may need to fast for at least 8 hours. Drink plenty of water before the urine test.
Report Time4 hours except for Urine Culture - 3 Days
Why do I need to undergo a UTI Screen?
A UTI Screen is done to diagnose a urinary tract infection (UTI) and determine the type of bacteria causing the infection. It can also help monitor the effectiveness of treatment for a UTI.
What does a Complete Blood Count (CBC) test indicate in a UTI Screen?
The CBC test measures the concentration of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets in the blood. An increase in white blood cells may indicate an infection.
Home Sample Collection Process
1
Book your convenient slot
2
Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
3
Reporting of the sample at lab
4
Download Reports
Frequently Asked Questions
The ESR test measures how quickly your red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube. A faster-than-normal rate may indicate an inflammatory condition in your body, such as a UTI.
A urine culture is done to identify the type of bacteria causing the UTI. It can help determine the appropriate antibiotic treatment.
A complete urine examination can reveal abnormalities in urine that may indicate a UTI, such as the presence of white blood cells, red blood cells, bacteria, or certain chemicals.
The fasting blood glucose test is included as people with diabetes are at higher risk of UTIs. Regularly monitoring blood glucose levels can help manage diabetes and reduce the risk of UTIs.
For accurate results, you should fast for at least 8 hours before the blood test. Drink plenty of water before the urine test to ensure a sufficient sample.
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm for the CBC, ESR, and fasting blood glucose tests. For the urine tests, you will be asked to provide a urine sample.
Your results will be provided by the lab or your healthcare provider. If you have a UTI, your healthcare provider will discuss treatment options with you.
It typically takes between 48 to 72 hours to get your results, but this can vary depending on the lab.
The blood draw might cause minor discomfort, but it is usually over quickly. The urine tests are painless.
The blood draw carries minimal risks, such as slight pain or bruising at the needle site. There are no risks associated with the urine tests.
You should not eat or drink anything except water for at least 8 hours before your blood test.
Certain medications can affect your test results. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking.
If your results are abnormal, your healthcare provider will discuss the next steps, which may include further testing or starting treatment for a UTI. Remember, if you suspect you have a UTI, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and ensure a quicker recovery.
A UTI Screen is designed to identify urinary tract infections specifically. However, some components of the test, such as a Complete Blood Count (CBC), can provide information about other health conditions.
UTI Screen is generally reliable in diagnosing a urinary tract infection. However, sometimes, the bacteria causing the UTI may not grow in the culture. In such cases, your doctor may rely on symptoms and other test results to diagnose the UTI.
If you're experiencing symptoms suggestive of a UTI such as pain while urinating, frequent urge to urinate, lower abdominal pain, or cloudy urine, you should get a UTI Screen. For individuals with recurrent UTIs or other risk factors, the doctor may recommend periodic screenings.
If your UTI Screen is positive, indicating a UTI, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. You may also be advised to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the bacteria out of your urinary system.
Most UTIs are not serious if treated promptly. However, if left untreated, a UTI can lead to complications such as kidney infections, which can be serious.
While some mild UTIs can resolve on their own, it's generally recommended to treat UTIs with antibiotics to prevent complications. Always consult your healthcare provider if you suspect a UTI.
Yes, UTIs are more common in women than men due to anatomical differences. They're also more common in sexually active individuals, pregnant women, men with enlarged prostate, and individuals with diabetes or with a catheter inserted into the bladder.
Certain measures can help prevent UTIs, including drinking plenty of fluids, urinating regularly and when the urge arises, urinating before and after sex, and maintaining good hygiene.
Infections, including UTIs, can cause temporary spikes in blood sugar levels, especially in individuals with diabetes. That's why it's crucial for diabetics to manage their blood sugar levels carefully during an infection.
Common symptoms of a UTI include a burning sensation during urination, a frequent urge to urinate, lower abdominal pain, cloudy, strong-smelling urine, and sometimes fever. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.
Login / Signup
