Frequent Urination: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation

Symptoms of frequent urination?

Hello, Dr.
Lin.
I have been experiencing frequent urination lately, and I only pass a small amount each time.
Sometimes, I feel pain in my lower abdomen after urinating, and there is a little blood when I wipe with tissue, although the urine color is normal.
I went to the hospital for a urinalysis, and they said the results were normal.
Does a normal report mean there is no issue? At that time, I also consulted with the obstetrics and gynecology department, and the internal examination was normal.
Should I undergo further blood tests to confirm that there are no issues with my bladder and kidneys?

Ting, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/30

Dr. Lin Wenxu reply Urology

Based on your description, there is a possibility of acute hemorrhagic cystitis.
It is recommended to visit the urology outpatient department again for a urine test, and if necessary, further X-ray and ultrasound examinations can be conducted.
Please note that there have been instances where urine tests showed normal results one day, only to reveal a urinary tract infection the following day.
Additionally, some individuals may exhibit symptoms of acute cystitis, yet all urine tests consistently show normal results, in which case the possibility of "interstitial cystitis" should be considered.

Reply Date: 2016/04/30

More Info

Frequent urination, especially when accompanied by pain and blood in the urine, can be concerning and warrants further evaluation. While your urine tests came back normal, it is important to understand that normal results do not always rule out underlying issues. Here are some points to consider regarding your symptoms and the need for further medical evaluation.

1. Understanding Symptoms: Frequent urination, especially when it is accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen and blood in the urine, can indicate several potential issues. These may include urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder inflammation, kidney stones, or other urinary tract disorders. Even if your urine test results are normal, these conditions can sometimes be present without showing abnormalities in a standard urinalysis.

2. Normal Urine Tests: A normal urine test typically checks for the presence of blood, protein, glucose, and signs of infection. However, some conditions may not be detected through routine testing. For example, microscopic hematuria (blood in urine that is not visible to the naked eye) may not always be detected unless specifically looked for. Additionally, certain infections or inflammatory conditions may not show up in a standard urine test.

3. Further Evaluation: Given your symptoms, it would be prudent to seek further evaluation. This could include:
- Blood Tests: To assess kidney function and check for any signs of infection or inflammation.

- Imaging Studies: Such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to visualize the kidneys and bladder for stones, tumors, or other abnormalities.

- Cystoscopy: A procedure where a thin tube with a camera is inserted into the bladder to directly visualize the bladder lining and urethra.

4. Consulting a Specialist: Since you have already seen a gynecologist, it may be beneficial to consult a urologist, who specializes in urinary tract disorders. They can provide a more focused evaluation of your urinary symptoms and recommend appropriate diagnostic tests.

5. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including the frequency of urination, any pain experienced, and the presence of blood. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in determining the next steps.

6. Potential Causes: Conditions such as interstitial cystitis (IC), overactive bladder (OAB), or even pelvic floor dysfunction could be contributing to your symptoms. These conditions may require specific treatments that differ from those for UTIs or kidney stones.

7. Emotional and Psychological Impact: Chronic urinary symptoms can also lead to anxiety and affect your quality of life. It’s important to address not just the physical aspects but also the emotional impact of these symptoms. Seeking support from a mental health professional may be beneficial if you find that your symptoms are causing significant distress.

In conclusion, while normal urine test results are reassuring, they do not eliminate the possibility of underlying issues. Given your symptoms, it is advisable to pursue further evaluation with a healthcare provider, preferably a urologist, to ensure that any potential conditions are identified and treated appropriately. Your health and well-being are paramount, and taking proactive steps in seeking further evaluation is crucial in managing your symptoms effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Frequent Urination: When to Seek Medical Attention

I have been experiencing frequent urination for about 2 to 3 years, and I feel like my bladder is smaller than others. Before my cystitis on June 9th of this year, I would sometimes drink a sip of water and then have a large amount of urine just 10 minutes later. Additionally, I ...

Dr. Li Yilun reply Urology
Frequent urination is defined as more than 8 times a day for women or more than once at night. In young women, common causes include infections and inflammation. If symptoms persist and become chronic, the underlying causes can be more complex. If the infection is treated but fre...

Understanding Frequent Urination: When to See a Urologist or Psychiatrist

In situations involving long journeys or the inability to access a restroom, one may experience frequent urination, needing to go every 10 minutes. In daily life, this can lead to anxiety about finding a restroom, causing individuals to visit the bathroom even when they do not fe...

Dr. Wang Yazhen reply Psychiatry
Hello, Hong Li-Ya: As you mentioned, it is advisable to first consult a urologist to determine if there are any physiological factors involved. If physiological issues are identified, they should be addressed accordingly. If not, then it would be appropriate to seek a psychiatric...

Persistent Urgency After Urethritis: When to Seek Further Evaluation

Hello doctor, last week I experienced some frequency in urination and immediately went to see a doctor for a urinalysis, which showed no signs of inflammation, so the doctor did not prescribe any medication. A few days later, I went back for another urinalysis, which showed mild ...

Dr. Du Mingyi reply Urology
You can go to a major hospital to have a urine test, X-ray, and ultrasound to check for any other issues.

Understanding Urinary Issues: When to Seek Further Medical Help

Doctor, I have a long-standing habit of holding in my urine. Last month, I went for an examination, and the doctor said I had a urinary tract infection. I was prescribed medication (for bacterial infection and frequent urination), and I was told there was no need for a follow-up ...

Dr. Du Mingyi reply Urology
There's no need to be overly anxious; it's unlikely for someone in their 20s to have cancer. It's more likely a common urinary tract infection, which is quite frequent among young women. Try to avoid holding in urine. If there are symptoms of depression or anxiety,...