1. Type 2 Diabetes: Learn the Warning Signs
2. Diabetes and Foot Problems Slideshow
3. Take the Diabetes Quiz!

In this Article

• Introduction
• Urine Tests for Diabetic Kidney Disease
• What happens if the microalbuminuria test is positive?
• Urine testing for severe hyper glycemia
• How do I test for ketones?
• When should I test for ketones?
• When should I call my doctor?
• How do I record my test results?
• Urine Tests for Diabetes Index

Urine Testing For Severe Hyperglycemia

Sometimes, your health care provider may perform a urine test to determine if your blood sugar is dangerously high and if you are producing substances called ketones. Ketones are the by-product of the fat burning process that occurs in the absence of insulin. When a person with diabetes develops hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, if there is not enough insulin around (type 1 diabetes) or if their body is unable to utilize the insulin properly (type 2 diabetes) and break down sugar, the body turns to fat stores to create energy for the cells. While ketones can be a source of energy for many cells, they can be toxic in large amounts and cause a life-threatening emergency condition called ketoacidosis.

Ketone levels can be measured in the urine by your doctor or by using an over-the-counter kit at home.

How Do I Test for Ketones?

Testing for ketones involves dipping a test strip into your urine. The test strip changes color and is then compared to a color chart.

When Should I Test for Ketones?

If you have type 1 diabetes, test your urine for ketones when:

• You feel sick (have a cold, the flu, or other illness) and have nausea or vomiting.
• You are pregnant.
• Your blood sugar level is high (usually over 240 milligrams per deciliter or mg/dL) or as directed by your doctor.

If you have type 2 diabetes, you have a very low chance of developing ketoacidosis, even if you are on insulin therapy. However, during severe illnesses, it is possible that ketoacidosis may develop.

If you have type 2 diabetes, you should test your urine for ketones when:

• You feel severely sick (have a cold, the flu, or other illness) and/or have unexplained nausea or vomiting
• Your blood sugar level is high (over 300 milligrams per deciliter or mg/dL, or as directed by your doctor) and continues to rise throughout the day.

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