Glucose In Urine (++) – Is Blood Sugar Normal?

Glucose in urine, also known as glycosuria, typically refers to the presence of glucose in the urinary system. In a healthy individual, when blood passes through the kidneys, glucose is filtered and then reabsorbed back into the bloodstream through the renal tubules. As a result, only a minimal amount — or none at all — of glucose is left in the urine. Therefore, a normal urine test should show a negative result for urinary glucose. However, if a urine test reveals a (+) reading for glucose, it may indicate one of several scenarios.

Elevated Blood Sugar Levels

One of the most common causes of glucose in urine is elevated blood sugar levels. When blood glucose exceeds the renal threshold — typically around 8.9–10 mmol/L — the kidneys are unable to reabsorb all of the glucose, leading to its appearance in the urine. This situation is often observed in individuals with diabetes mellitus. If left unmanaged, persistent glycosuria can be a sign of poor glycemic control and may require medical intervention.

Normal Blood Sugar With Glucosuria

It is also possible to have glucose in the urine despite having normal blood sugar levels. This phenomenon is commonly seen in certain physiological conditions. For example, during pregnancy, hormonal changes can lower the renal threshold for glucose, resulting in the appearance of glucose in the urine even when blood sugar levels are within the normal range. In such cases, the presence of urinary glucose is usually harmless and does not require treatment.

Renal Conditions Leading to Glucosuria

Another potential cause of glucose in urine is an underlying kidney disorder. Certain chronic kidney diseases can impair the tubules' ability to reabsorb glucose, leading to a lower renal threshold. This means that even with normal blood sugar levels, glucose may appear in the urine. If this is suspected, further diagnostic tests and kidney function assessments are recommended to identify and manage any underlying renal issues.

When To Seek Medical Advice

If you receive a urine test result showing glucose (++) and are unsure of the cause, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help determine whether the glycosuria is due to high blood sugar, a temporary physiological change, or a kidney-related condition. Proper diagnosis and follow-up are essential for maintaining long-term health and preventing complications.