Nitrites in Urine

A urinalysis test checks for different cells, chemicals, and other substances in a sample of your urine (pee). This includes checking for nitrites. Nitrites in your urine may be a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Different types of bacteria can cause UTIs. Many of these types of bacteria change a normal chemical in your urine, called nitrates, into another chemical, called nitrites. So, if you have nitrites in your urine, it usually means that you have a urinary tract infection (UTI).

UTIs are one of the most common types of infections, especially in women. Most UTIs affect the bladder and urethra (the tube that carries urine out of your body). Fortunately, most UTIs are not serious.

They are usually treated with antibiotics. UTIs that aren't treated could spread to your kidneys, which can be serious. So, it's important to diagnose and treat UTIs early.

Why this test is done

Your health care provider may order a urinalysis as part of a routine checkup or if you have symptoms of a UTI. Symptoms of a UTI may include:

• Frequent urges to urinate (pee), even when you have little urine in your bladder
• Pain or burning when you pee
• Dark, cloudy, or reddish-colored urine
• Bad smelling urine
• Weakness, fatigue, or confusion, mainly in older people
• Fever, which may be a sign of a kidney infection

If you have symptoms of a UTI, it's important to see your provider so you can start treatment right away, if needed.

How to prepare

You may need to stop taking certain medicines before this test, so tell your provider about everything you take. But don't stop taking any medicines unless your provider tells you to.

If your provider has ordered other urine or blood tests, you may need to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before the test. They will let you know if there are any special instructions.

Sample type

Urine

Other names for this test

urine test, urine analysis, microscopic urine analysis, microscopic examination of urine, UA