Urinary Issues: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Q: Urinary Issues: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Hello Ms. <br>Penny： After administering medication for acute cystitis, most people's symptoms improve once the infection is controlled. <br>However, some individuals may experience more severe inflammation of the bladder. <br>Even though the bacteria have been eradicated, the bl

Urinary problems

Hello Doctor: A few days ago, I suddenly felt a burning sensation while urinating.
I visited a urologist and took antibiotics for three days.
After finishing the antibiotics, the burning sensation improved, but I began to experience the following symptoms: 1.
Difficulty urinating, where the flow suddenly stops halfway, resulting in a small amount or dribbling.
2.
Frequent urgency to urinate, but only a small amount comes out.
3.
A persistent feeling of incomplete bladder emptying after each urination.
4.
I tried to drink more water, but it resulted in frequent trips to the bathroom with little urine output.
After seeking medical attention again, I underwent a urinalysis, which showed no bacteria, and an X-ray, which did not reveal any stones.
The doctor mentioned that inflammation might have caused some bladder injury, leading to difficulty in urination.
Therefore, the doctor prescribed (anti-inflammatory coated tablets) and (Betanidine extended-release tablets) to be taken until June 1, which is the third day, but the symptoms remain the same, and I feel that the urine output is even less and harder to pass.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
What could be the cause of these symptoms? 2.
Is it advisable to stop the medication on my own? 3.
What can be done to alleviate the symptoms? 4.
Is it still appropriate to drink a lot of water?

penny, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/01

Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology

Hello Ms.
Penny: After administering medication for acute cystitis, most people's symptoms improve once the infection is controlled.
However, some individuals may experience more severe inflammation of the bladder.
Even though the bacteria have been eradicated, the bladder epithelium may still be quite swollen, making the bladder very sensitive when urine is present, leading to the sensation that it has not fully healed.
The suspected reasons for this could be an increased sensitivity of the bladder epithelium to urine stimulation following recurrent infections, or individual differences in physiology.
It is generally recommended to take medications that relax the bladder and anti-inflammatory drugs (non-antibiotics) to improve the condition.
You may consider returning for an earlier follow-up to discuss your symptoms further with your physician at the Urology Department of Hsin Ying Hospital, Dr.
Chen Chien-Sheng.

Reply Date: 2016/06/01

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you're experiencing a complex set of urinary symptoms that can be quite distressing. Let's break down your concerns and explore potential causes, treatment options, and lifestyle modifications that may help alleviate your symptoms.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Burning Sensation During Urination: This is often indicative of a urinary tract infection (UTI), but since you've been treated with antibiotics and your follow-up tests showed no bacteria, it could be related to inflammation or irritation of the bladder or urethra.

2. Difficulty in Urination: The sensation of urine stopping mid-flow and the feeling of incomplete emptying can be attributed to several factors, including bladder dysfunction, inflammation, or even psychological factors related to anxiety about urination.

3. Frequent Urgency with Little Output: This symptom can be associated with overactive bladder syndrome or bladder irritation. It can also occur if the bladder is not able to contract effectively due to inflammation or nerve issues.

4. Feeling of Incomplete Emptying: This can be frustrating and is often linked to bladder outlet obstruction or detrusor muscle dysfunction, which can occur after inflammation or irritation.

Possible Causes
Given your symptoms and the results of your tests, several potential causes could be considered:
- Bladder Inflammation (Cystitis): Even in the absence of a bacterial infection, inflammation can cause significant discomfort and urinary symptoms.

- Neurogenic Bladder: If there are issues with the nerves that control bladder function, this could lead to the symptoms you're experiencing.

- Psychological Factors: Anxiety and stress can exacerbate urinary symptoms, leading to a cycle of discomfort and urgency.

- Medication Side Effects: Some medications can affect bladder function and urination.

Treatment Options
1. Medications: You mentioned being prescribed anti-inflammatory medication and a medication for bladder control. It's crucial to follow your doctor's advice regarding these medications. If you feel they are not helping, discuss this with your healthcare provider before making any changes.

2. Pelvic Floor Exercises: Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can improve bladder control and reduce symptoms of urgency and frequency.

3. Behavioral Techniques: Bladder training and scheduled voiding can help retrain your bladder to hold urine longer and reduce urgency.

4. Hydration: While staying hydrated is essential, excessive fluid intake can exacerbate urgency and frequency. It may be beneficial to moderate your fluid intake based on your symptoms and consult with your doctor about the appropriate amount.

5. Dietary Modifications: Avoiding irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and artificial sweeteners can help reduce bladder irritation.

Questions Addressed
1. What could be causing these symptoms?: Likely causes include bladder inflammation, neurogenic bladder issues, or psychological factors. Further evaluation may be necessary to pinpoint the exact cause.

2. Can I stop the medication?: It's essential to consult your healthcare provider before discontinuing any prescribed medication. They can provide guidance based on your specific situation.

3. What can I do to alleviate symptoms?: Consider pelvic floor exercises, bladder training, and dietary modifications. Discussing your symptoms with a urologist may also provide additional insights.

4. Should I continue drinking large amounts of water?: While hydration is important, you may need to adjust your intake based on your symptoms. It’s best to discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Conclusion
Your urinary symptoms can be complex and multifactorial. It's essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, who can help tailor a treatment plan to your specific needs. If symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation may be necessary, including potential referrals to specialists such as a urologist or a pelvic floor therapist. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are effective strategies and treatments available to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

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