Osmolality Test
The Osmolality test is carried out to help evaluate the balance of electrolytes and water in the human body. It determines the concentration of particles in the urine and thus measures particles /kg water. If the values of the test show low osmolality than normal, it indicates higher than usual levels of water with respect to the amount of particles dissolved and a higher value of the test shows that there is less water with respect to the particles dissolved in it. This test is usually done when a patient has low sodium levels or if he or she is taking mannitol. This test is carried out if the doctor suspects an ingestion of toxins such as methanol or ethylene glycol. The osmolality test can be carried out with a urine sample as well a blood sample.
Osmolality Test Reasons
The osmolality test helps in knowing the body water and urine concentration. It helps investigate the conditions of hyponatremia or chronic diarrhea. It also helps in finding out the causes for increased or decreased urine production. It can detect the ingestion of toxins such as methanol. It is used to monitor the effects of treatment for the conditions that affect osmolality. It is ordered when a patient suffers chronic diarrhea. The test is also conducted to investigate the causes of very low sodium levels in a patient. It also checks if the hypothalamus is producing enough antidiuretic homone which is also called ADH.
Osmolality Test Preparation
The health provider that you are consulting might ask you to stop any kind of drugs or medication that might interfere with the test or give incorrect test results. Drugs like dextran and sucrose which increase specific gravity measurements might be asked to stop a few days before the test. X ray examinations which include intravenous dye might be asked to stop for at least three days before the test. A normal balanced diet before the test is essential.
Osmolality Test Procedure
As the test involves normal urination, it is not all painful or uncomfortable. A midstream urine sample is collected. Unlike other urine sample tests, this test does not need the morning sample nor does it need the patient to stop intake of food prior to the test. For a blood test, a sample of the patient’s blood is taken from the vein in the hand, with the help of a needle and stored in a vial. It is then sent to the lab for further tests.