What is the normal urine specific gravity range?

The normal urine specific gravity range is important for evaluating a person's hydration status and kidney function. A value of 1.012 to 1.028 reflects normal concentration capabilities of the kidneys, indicating that they can appropriately concentrate urine based on the body's hydration needs.

Specific gravity measures the concentration of solutes in urine; lower values indicate dilute urine, while higher values suggest more concentrated urine. The range of 1.012 to 1.028 captures the physiological variability that can occur based on factors like fluid intake, diet, and overall health. Maintaining this range allows healthcare providers to assess renal function accurately.

Values outside this range may signal different health issues, such as dehydration or renal concentrating ability impairment. Thus, knowing the normal range helps in diagnosing and managing patient conditions effectively.