24-Hour Urinary Sodium and Potassium Ratio (with Electrolyte Profile)
This test measures the balance of sodium and potassium in your urine over 24 hours, along with other electrolytes, to help assess kidney function and fluid balance.
["Helps diagnose kidney issues, fluid imbalances, or conditions affecting electrolyte levels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 101826-6
- Short code
- Na Urate cry 24h SatFr Ur
- Synonyms
- Na Urate cry 24h SatFr Ur
- Category
- electrolyte
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 3.5
- Ref high
- 7.2
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like swelling, high or low blood pressure, frequent urination, or signs of kidney problems. It’s also used to monitor conditions like kidney disease, heart failure, or certain hormonal disorders that affect how your body handles electrolytes.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely collect all your urine for 24 hours, starting and ending with the first morning urine. Drink regular fluids unless instructed otherwise. Avoid certain medications that could affect electrolyte levels.
How the Test Works
The test measures the amount of sodium, potassium, and other electrolytes in your urine over a full day. This helps determine if your kidneys are properly filtering these substances or if there’s an imbalance in your body.
What the Results Mean
Abnormal results may indicate kidney disease, fluid retention, hormonal imbalances, or other conditions affecting electrolyte balance. Your doctor will interpret the results in relation to your symptoms and medical history.
Reference range
NCBI: Uric Acid Male 3.5-7.2 mg/dL; Female 2.5-6.8 mg/dLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
24-Hour Urine Electrolyte Ratio Profile
Frequently asked questions
What causes false high or low results in this test?
How often should I get this test?
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy