What is the Osmolality Test? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post, and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form down below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is osmolality?
Osmolality is the concentration of particles dissolved in body fluid.
Also Read: Magnesium Test
What are osmolality tests?
The osmolality test measures the number of dissolved particles in body fluid. It reflects the concentration of dissolved substances such as glucose, urea, and electrolytes (sodium, potassium, and chloride) in the blood.
What is the normal range of the osmolality test?
For Adults: 285 to 295 mOsm/kg
For Children: 275 to 290 mOsm/kg
What is it used for?
A blood osmolality test is used for a variety of reasons:
- To find out the balance between water and certain chemicals in the blood.
- To find out if you have swallowed a poison
- To help diagnose dehydration
- To help diagnose the overhydration
- To help diagnose diabetes insipidus
A urine osmolality test is also used along with a serum osmolality test to check the body’s fluid.
A stool osmolality test is used to find out the reason for chronic diarrhoea.
Why is the osmolality test done?
This test is needed when you have symptoms of a fluid imbalance, diabetes insipidus, or certain types of poisoning.
The symptoms of diabetes insipidus and fluid imbalance are similar and may include:
- Excessive thirst
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Confusion
- Fatigue
- Seizures
The symptoms of poisoning will be different because it depends on the type of substance that was swallowed.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Convulsions
- Difficulty breathing
- Slurred speech
What does a low level indicate?
If the level of blood osmolality is lower than normal is due to the various conditions as follows:
- ADH oversecretion
- Lung Cancer
- Low sodium level
- Drinking too much water or fluid
- Hypothyroidism
- The adrenal gland not working normally
What does a high level indicate?
The lower level may be due to such conditions:
- Diabetes insipidus
- High blood sugar level
- High levels of nitrogen waste products
- High sodium level
- Stroke
- Dehydration
