What does it mean if urine specific gravity is high in a urine test?

Under normal circumstances, the main causes of high urine specific gravity in urinalysis include insufficient water intake, intense physical exercise, dehydration, diabetes, and acute glomerulonephritis. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Insufficient Water Intake

When daily water intake is too low, urine becomes concentrated and solute concentration increases, leading to elevated urine specific gravity without other discomfort. Increase daily water intake to 1500–2000 mL, drink small amounts frequently, avoid drinking large quantities at once, and have regular follow-up urinalysis.

2. Intense Physical Exercise

After intense exercise, excessive sweating leads to fluid loss and urine concentration, causing a temporary increase in urine specific gravity, possibly accompanied by mild thirst. Replenish fluids promptly after exercise with warm water or diluted salt water; avoid drinking large amounts of water immediately post-exercise. Gradually increase exercise intensity to minimize excessive fluid loss.

3. Dehydration

Significant fluid loss due to vomiting, diarrhea, or working in high-temperature environments results in highly concentrated urine and markedly increased specific gravity, often accompanied by dry mouth and reduced urine output. Oral rehydration salts (ORS III) should be taken promptly to restore fluids and electrolytes. In severe cases, intravenous infusion of normal saline may be required. The underlying cause of dehydration should be identified and treated accordingly—for example, adjusting diet during episodes of diarrhea.

4. Diabetes

Elevated blood glucose levels exceeding the renal glucose threshold lead to glucose excretion in urine, which carries water out with it, resulting in high urine specific gravity. This is often accompanied by symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, and weight loss. Under medical guidance, medications such as metformin hydrochloride tablets, gliclazide tablets, or insulin injection may be used to control blood sugar. Regular monitoring of blood glucose and urinalysis is essential, along with limiting sugar intake.

5. Acute Glomerulonephritis

Impaired glomerular filtration function allows leakage of proteins and other large molecules into the urine, increasing urinary solutes and elevating specific gravity. Symptoms may include edema and hematuria. Under medical supervision, medications such as hydrochlorothiazide tablets, nifedipine tablets, or penicillin V potassium tablets may be prescribed. Patients should rest in bed and avoid fatigue, follow a low-salt diet, limit protein intake, and undergo hemodialysis if the condition is severe.

In daily life, maintain adequate hydration to prevent chronic dehydration; exercise moderately and replenish fluids promptly; undergo regular health checkups including urinalysis and blood glucose monitoring; and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms such as edema or abnormal urine color appear, to avoid delaying diagnosis and treatment.