24-hour urine calcium test
Quick answer: This test measures the total amount of calcium your kidneys pass into urine over 24 hours. Doctors order it to look into kidney stones, parathyroid problems or bone conditions such as osteoporosis.
- Sample24-hour urine
- Takes24 hours of collection at home
- Before the testCollect all your urine for 24 hours in the container provided, following the lab's instructions, and keep it cool.
How the test is done
- 1You collect a large container, and sometimes a preservative, from the lab
- 2On day one, you pass your first morning urine into the toilet and note the time
- 3For the next 24 hours, you collect every drop of urine in the container
- 4You add the first urine of the next morning, then return the cooled container
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal ranges differ between labs and by age and sex, so discuss your result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A high level can be seen with kidney stones, an overactive parathyroid gland, too much vitamin D or high calcium intake. A low level can be seen with low vitamin D, kidney disease or low calcium intake.
Who usually has this test
People with kidney stones, raised blood calcium, parathyroid problems or bone thinning.
Risks and aftercare
There are no physical risks, but keep any preservative away from skin and children.
Names and options
Also called: urine calcium 24 hour
Listed by the hospital as
- 24 HR URINE CALCIUM
- CALCIUM 24 HR URINE
Questions about this test
What if I miss one urine sample during the 24 hours?
Missing even one sample can make the result falsely low. Tell the lab, as they may ask you to start again on another day.
Should I change my diet before a 24-hour urine calcium test?
Usually you keep to your normal diet so the result reflects everyday life. Your doctor may give special instructions if they want to check something specific.
Why is a 24-hour test used instead of a single urine sample?
Calcium in urine changes through the day with meals and fluids. Collecting over a full day gives a more complete picture than one sample.
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Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.