Urine

Urine specific gravity

Urine specific gravity tells how concentrated the urine is — how much substance it contains relative to water. It mainly reflects hydration and the kidneys' ability to concentrate urine.

Ranges we useEFLM
RatingRangeWhat it means
Worth improvingbelow 1.003 Very dilute urine. High fluid intake or a concentrating disorder.
Good1.003 – 1.035 Within range (relative density 1.003–1.035).
Worth improving1.035 and aboveVery concentrated urine. Often dehydration.
Source: EFLM · European Urinalysis Guideline 2023 (Kouri T et al.) · 2023

Why it matters

ECLM: reflects hydration and the kidneys' concentrating ability.

If it’s low

Low specific gravity means dilute urine — a lot of drinking or (if persistently low) a poorer ability of the kidneys to concentrate.

If it’s high

High specific gravity means concentrated urine — usually dehydration (too little drinking); less often an excess of substances (e.g. sugar, contrast agent).

What to do

It mainly reflects hydration — on its own it rarely requires action. Persistently low with excessive thirst/urination belongs to a doctor.

Read together with

Urine pH · Glucose in urine

This content is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your doctor about your results.

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