Is It a Kidney Issue? Bladder and Urinary Symptoms

Is it a kidney problem?

Hello doctor, two months ago I experienced severe symptoms of cystitis, including fever, nausea, vomiting, chills, frequent urination, and painful urination.
An ultrasound revealed a benign cyst on my kidney.
A few weeks ago, I experienced frequent urination with pain again.
After seeing the doctor, I was prescribed antibiotics for three days.
Upon my follow-up visit, my inflammation index was down to 2, and the doctor prescribed another four days of medication for a complete cure.
After finishing the medication, I thought I was fine, but in the past few days, I've had frequent urination with cloudy urine accompanied by small bubbles, and I've felt some discomfort.
Yesterday, I also noticed two small transparent blisters in my mouth! I thought that drinking more water, exercising, and taking a multivitamin would help me recover, but today I haven't eaten much and still feel nauseous...
The urinary issues haven't improved (though the blisters have disappeared).
I would like to know if this is a bladder or urethra issue or a kidney problem? I want to see a doctor but I'm unsure whether to consult a urologist or a nephrologist...
or should I just be patient, drink more water, and rest?

Jen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/24

Dr. Wu Jiyu reply Internal Medicine

Based on your inquiry, it seems that you may have a urinary tract infection.
If you have completed the necessary treatment but are still experiencing discomfort, it is advisable to follow up with a urologist or nephrologist.
If necessary, consider undergoing a urine culture.
Additionally, drinking plenty of water and not holding in urine are essential measures to prevent urinary tract infections.
Thank you for your question, and the Nephrology Department at Changhua Hospital is here to support you.

Reply Date: 2016/08/24

More Info

Based on the symptoms you've described, it appears that you are experiencing a complex interplay of urinary and possibly kidney-related issues. Your history of bladder inflammation, along with the recent symptoms of frequent urination, pain during urination, and the presence of cloudy urine with bubbles, suggests that you may still be dealing with a urinary tract infection (UTI) or another underlying condition affecting your bladder or kidneys.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Frequent Urination and Pain: These symptoms are classic indicators of a UTI. The fact that you experienced fever, chills, and nausea previously suggests that your body was fighting an infection. The presence of pain during urination (dysuria) and the sensation of incomplete bladder emptying can also indicate inflammation of the bladder (cystitis).

2. Cloudy Urine with Bubbles: Cloudy urine can be a sign of infection, particularly if it is accompanied by a foul odor or other symptoms. The bubbles might indicate the presence of protein or other substances in the urine, which can occur in various conditions, including infections or kidney issues.

3. Gastrointestinal Symptoms: The nausea and vomiting you experienced could be related to the infection, as systemic infections can often lead to gastrointestinal symptoms. However, if these symptoms persist, it may be worth investigating further to rule out any gastrointestinal issues.

4. Oral Canker Sores: The appearance of small, transparent blisters in your mouth could be unrelated to your urinary symptoms, but they may indicate a viral infection or stress-related condition. It's essential to monitor these and consult a healthcare provider if they persist or worsen.

Next Steps
Given your symptoms and medical history, here are some recommendations:
1. Consult a Urologist: Since your primary symptoms are related to urination and bladder function, it would be prudent to see a urologist. They can perform specific tests, such as a urinalysis and possibly a urine culture, to determine if there is an ongoing infection or other issues like bladder stones or interstitial cystitis.

2. Consider a Nephrologist: If your symptoms suggest kidney involvement (e.g., pain in the flank area, changes in urine output, or persistent protein in the urine), a nephrologist may be necessary. They can assess kidney function and determine if there are any underlying kidney diseases.

3. Hydration and Rest: While waiting for your appointment, continue to drink plenty of fluids, as hydration can help flush out the urinary system. Rest is also crucial for recovery, especially if your body is fighting an infection.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, including any changes in urination, pain levels, and gastrointestinal symptoms. This information will be invaluable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing your condition.

5. Follow-Up on Treatment: If you were prescribed antibiotics, ensure you complete the full course, even if you start feeling better. If symptoms persist after treatment, return to your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms could stem from either bladder or kidney issues, and it is essential to seek specialized care to determine the exact cause. A urologist will likely be your first point of contact, but do not hesitate to involve a nephrologist if kidney-related symptoms arise. Your proactive approach to your health is commendable, and with the right medical guidance, you can work towards resolving these troubling symptoms.

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