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The method of measuring the flow of urine is called uroflowmetry, which shows how fast urine flows, how much it flows out, and how long it takes. It is a diagnostic test that assesses how well the urinary tract functions. This test is suggested if a person has trouble urinating or has a slow stream. Measuring the average rate of urine flow shows any obstruction in the urinary tract, like an enlarged prostate. It is often combined with a cystometrogram to help find problems like a weak bladder. Let us learn more about the uroflowmetry tests. 

What to Expect During the Test? 

For the test, you need to arrive at the Ranchi urology centre with a full bladder. It is suggested that you do not urinate for a few hours before the test. The doctor will ask you to urinate into a funnel which will be connected to the electronic uroflowmeter, which records the information about the urine flow on a flow chart. The flow rate is calculated as millilitres of urine passed per second.

An electronic uroflowmetry is hooked up to the funnel, which measures the speed and quantity of urination. You should not urinate until the machine is turned on. The device calculates the amount of urine you pass and the length of time it takes for you to empty the bladder completely. This information will be recorded in a chart. Normal urination will have the initial urine stream beginning slowly, speeding up, and finally going down again. The device will record any difference from the norm to help make a diagnosis. 

What Do the Results Indicate?

The fastest urine flow rate is known as Qmax and is used to determine if a block or obstruction is severe. The test results will be known right away, and the average results are based on the patient’s age and gender. Urine flow typically runs from 10-21 ml per second. For women, it ranges from 15-18 ml per second. 

A low flow rate may indicate an obstruction either at the bladder neck or in the urethra, a weak bladder or even an enlarged prostate. A fast or high flow rate may signal weak muscles around the urethra or urinary incontinence problems. The urologist will create a treatment plan based on the test results. 

What is the Purpose of the Uroflowmetry Test?

A urologist may recommend a uroflowmetry test if the patient has a weak urine stream, slow urination or difficulty urinating. It may also be used to test the sphincter muscle, which is a circular muscle that closes tightly around the bladder opening. It helps prevent urine leakage. The results help determine how well your bladder and sphincter are functioning. Conditions that may affect your normal urine flow include:

• Bladder and prostate cancer
• Benign prostatic hypertrophy or enlarged prostate gland
• Urinary blockage
• Neurogenic bladder dysfunction or trouble with the bladder due to the nervous system

To Conclude

After the test, the urologist will consider your symptoms and their results to develop a treatment plan. They will determine if treatment is necessary and what the options are for treatment. So immediately, talk to a urologist if you are experiencing any problems urinating, as it could be a sign of a more serious health condition.