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24-Hour Sodium Intake via Urine Collection

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures how much sodium you consume over 24 hours through your urine. Sodium balance is important for maintaining fluid and electrolyte levels in your body.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess sodium intake and kidney function in relation to sodium excretion."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
9086-0
Short code
Sodium intake Est
Synonyms
Sodium intake Est
Category
electrolyte
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
136
Ref high
145
Critical range
120 N/A – 160 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
estimated
CPT
84295
SNOMED
110741000
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have conditions like kidney disease, heart failure, or high blood pressure that affect sodium balance. It can also help diagnose or monitor certain metabolic disorders or evaluate kidney function in relation to sodium intake.

What Does the Test Involve?

You will collect all urine for a full 24-hour period in a special container. The test measures sodium concentration in your urine to determine how much sodium your body is excreting over time.

How Is the Test Performed?

No special preparation is needed beyond collecting urine in a sterile container over 24 hours. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are the Possible Results?

Results are typically expressed as the total sodium excreted in milligrams (mg) over 24 hours. Interpretation depends on clinical context and your overall health status.

Reference range

Adult: 136-145 mmol/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

What does a 24-hour sodium intake test measure?
This test measures the total amount of sodium excreted in your urine over a full day, helping assess how well your kidneys are handling sodium from your diet.
Why might my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have kidney problems, high blood pressure, or other conditions affecting sodium balance, or if they suspect an imbalance in sodium metabolism.
How do I prepare for this test?
No special preparation is needed. Collect all urine in a container for 24 hours, including the first urine of the next morning after the previous day’s collection ends.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy