Uroflowmetry
Last updated on April 14th, 2024 at 03:51 pm
Uroflowmetry is a test that doctors use to measure how much urine is passed during urination. It also measures the speed of urination.
The test is also known as the uroflow test. It can help your doctor identify the causes of urinary difficulties.
Why is a Uroflowmetry Test Done?
Your doctor may recommend a uroflowmetry test if you have a weak urine stream, slow urination, or difficulty in urinating.
They may also use it to test your sphincter muscle (a circular muscle that closes tightly around the bladder opening). It helps to prevent leakage of urine.
Results from the test can help your doctor determine how well your sphincter and bladder are functioning.
This test can also be used to test for obstructions in the normal flow of urine. By measuring the average and maximum rates of your urine flow, the test can estimate the severity of any obstruction or blockage.
It can also help to identify other urinary problems, such as an enlarged prostate or a weakened bladder.
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Conditions that can Affect Normal Urine Flow
These conditions include:
1. Benign prostatic hypertrophy or enlargement of the prostate gland, which can block the urethra completely
2. Prostate cancer
3. Bladder cancer
4. Urinary blockage
5. Neurogenic bladder dysfunction, or trouble with the bladder due to a nervous system problem such as spinal cord injury or tumor
Preparing for a Uroflowmetry Test
Don’t worry, your doctor will provide you with guidance regarding your role before this procedure.
- You’ll need to give a urine sample. It may seem uncomfortable or awkward, but you shouldn’t experience any physical discomfort during the test.
- Be sure to visit your doctor’s office with a full bladder. You should drink plenty of liquids (water) to make sure you have enough urine for the test.
Tell the doctor if you are pregnant or think you might be. You should also tell your doctor about all medicines, vitamins, herbs, and any other supplements you’re taking.
Certain medications can interfere with the functions of the bladder.
What happens during the Uroflowmetry Test?
- Unlike traditional urine tests in which you urinate into a cup, you’ll need to urinate in a special toilet or a funnel-shaped device for this test. You mustn’t put any toilet tissue on or in the toilet or device.
- It’s best to urinate as you normally would, without attempting to manipulate the flow or speed in any way.
- An electronic uroflowmeter hooked up to the toilet or funnel measures the speed and quantity of urination. You mustn’t urinate until the machine is turned on.
- The uroflowmeter calculates the amount of urine you pass, the flow rate in milliliters per second (mm/s), and the length of time it takes to empty your bladder. It will record this information on a chart.
During normal urination, your initial urine stream starts slowly, speeds up, and then finally slows down again. The uroflowmeter can record any differences from the norm to help the doctor to make a diagnosis.
When you are finished urinating, the machine will report your results. The doctor will then discuss the result (findings) with you. Depending on your specific case, you might need to perform the urine test on several consecutive days.
Test Results Interpretation
Your doctor will use the results to determine your Qmax, or peak flow rate. Doctors generally use the peak flow rate, along with your urine volumes and voiding pattern, to determine the severity of any obstruction or blockage.
- A decrease in urine flow may suggest you have a blockage in the urethra or weak bladder muscles.
- An increase in the urine flow may suggest you have weakness in the muscles which helps to control the flow of urine. This may also be a sign of an overactive bladder (urinary incontinence).
After testing the flow of urine, your doctor will take your symptoms and situation into account before they develop a treatment plan. You might need additional urinary system testing.
You should discuss the results of your test with the doctor. They can help you determine if treatment is necessary and what options you have if you need the treatment.
Talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing any problems during urination. It could be a sign of a more serious health condition.
How to book an appointment for Uroflowmetry Test?
Booking an appointment for Uroflowmetry in Nepal at Clinic One is pretty easy.
You have the option of emailing us or calling us (given below) or simply coming in person to make an appointment, the choice is yours.
Our customer service department will choose a time at which both you and our doctor(s) are available.
Email: info@clinicone.com.np
Contact no: 016617401 | 9851310113
or, Request an appointment below.