We here in Tarrant County have been seeing a rash of UAs classified as diluted. I have a phone call with our provider scheduled for next week to discuss the issue. As I understand it, a sample is classified as "diluted" if its specific gravity and creatinine levels are outside of certain tolerances. Has anyone else either researched this issue or experienced a similar uptick in diluted specimens?

Our probaton office has seen quite a few dilltued results, especially in the past 2 years or so. I'm told there are products on the market designed to produce the same effect, and am also told if you drink enough liqiud of any kind, the sample will come back dilluted. Have not researched it myself, just going by what I was told. We always retest if we get a dilluted sample. Random testing dates also help solve the problem.

Remember all the press about drinking at least 64 ounces of water a day? At least at one time, there was talk that this was necessary for health.

A friend in the medical profession has mentioned to me that they often have to ask people NOT to drink their usual amount of water before a test. The proliferation of water bottles, and the fact that people carry them everywhere has led to a definate increase in water consumption. It may not just be an attempt to thwart the test.

Lisa, what about those who drink hot water? I'm still trying to grasp that concept. Mike :-)

Well - lots of people like to drink something warm, especially at work. However, copious quantities of coffee and tea are not healthy. So - hot water is the answer. A little lemon makes it absolutely wonderful! No calories, no caffine, and minimal cost!