Diabetes Health Center
Diabetes and Urine Tests
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.
When Should I Call My Doctor?
The result of the urine test for ketones should always be negative. Any positive results should be reported to your health care provider immediately. You should also call your doctor right away if your blood sugar remains elevated or if you have stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing, sweet-smelling breath, or if you are urinating excessively.
After contacting your doctor, you should:
- Drink plenty of water and fluids to try to decrease the amounts of ketones and maintain hydration.
- Continue to check your blood sugars intermittently; they may be high and you may need to give yourself a small amount of very rapid acting insulin. Your health care provider will give you instructions on what to do.
- Go to the local emergency room if instructed by your doctor to receive intravenous fluid and insulin therapy.
How Do I Record My Urine Test Results?
Keep detailed records of any urine or ketone tests you perform. Your records can help alert you and your health care provider to any problems. Bring these records with you every time you visit your health care provider.
Get information on how to manage diabetes every day.
Learn about hemoglobin A1C, an important blood test for people with diabetes.
View the full table of contents for the Diabetes Guide.
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