Description
Why It’s Done:
• To evaluate selenium deficiency, which may cause symptoms like fatigue, weakened immune function, and muscle weakness
• To assess selenium toxicity, which can occur if there is excessive selenium intake, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or hair loss
• To monitor nutritional status in individuals with malabsorption conditions or those on long-term nutritional support
• To track selenium levels in individuals undergoing specific treatments or those with chronic health conditions, such as thyroid disorders
• To assess the selenium intake from the diet or supplements
Preparation:
• No special preparation is usually needed for this test.
• Collect a spot urine sample (usually the first urine of the day) in a clean container as instructed by your healthcare provider.
• Inform your doctor about any selenium supplements or medications you are taking, as they may affect the results.
