Is It Really a Urinary Tract Infection? Your Mother's Symptoms

Is it really a urinary tract infection?

Hello, my mother has undergone a bladder suspension surgery, but in recent years, the surgical sutures have come loose, leading to urinary incontinence that requires her to wear adult diapers to maintain her daily life (she also changes them frequently).
However, we are unsure of the specific cause.
She often experiences a burning sensation during urination, dark yellow urine, chest tightness, dizziness, and loss of appetite, making her feel very unwell.
Is this simply a urinary tract infection? This situation has been persistent and feels like a ticking time bomb for my mother, and despite visiting multiple hospitals, there has been no improvement.
I would like to know if this condition is indeed a urinary tract infection, or if there could be other underlying causes? Which medical specialty should we consult for the right help? I really want to help my mother overcome this distressing situation...
Thank you.

Xiao Mai, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/27

Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine

● If the issue is related to postoperative sutures, the focus should be on addressing the sutures or any ongoing urinary incontinence problems.
Women may experience pelvic organ prolapse (such as the uterus, vagina, urethra, and intestines) due to childbirth, aging, estrogen deficiency, obesity, and constipation, which can lead to urinary incontinence.
This condition can be managed and improved at a major hospital.
● Urinary tract infections, aside from subjective discomfort, can be evaluated through medical examination.
However, it appears that the urinary incontinence issues are primarily related to pelvic organ prolapse, which can also trigger urinary tract infections.
Please consult the Women's Urology Division in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology or the Urology Department at a major hospital.
Wishing your mother good health, Dr.
Chen Tai-Cheng from the Family Medicine Department at Taoyuan Hospital is concerned for you.

Reply Date: 2017/08/27

More Info

It sounds like your mother is experiencing a complex set of symptoms that may not be solely attributed to a urinary tract infection (UTI). Given her history of urinary incontinence surgery and the subsequent complications, it is essential to consider multiple factors that could be contributing to her current condition.

Firstly, the symptoms you describe—burning sensation during urination, dark yellow urine, chest tightness, dizziness, and loss of appetite—could indeed suggest a UTI, especially if she has a history of recurrent infections. However, the presence of these symptoms does not automatically confirm a UTI. The fact that she has undergone surgery and is experiencing leakage and discomfort indicates that there may be underlying issues related to her surgical site or bladder function.

The burning sensation and dark urine could be signs of infection, but they could also indicate dehydration or concentrated urine, especially if she is not drinking enough fluids. It is crucial to ensure that she is adequately hydrated, as this can help dilute the urine and potentially alleviate some discomfort.

Moreover, the chest tightness and dizziness are concerning symptoms that may not be directly related to a UTI. These could indicate other medical issues, such as anxiety, cardiovascular problems, or even side effects from medications she may be taking. It is essential to address these symptoms with a healthcare provider, as they could signify a more serious condition that requires immediate attention.

Given the complexity of her symptoms and the lack of improvement despite multiple visits to different healthcare providers, it may be beneficial to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a specialist. A urologist, particularly one who specializes in female urology or pelvic floor disorders, would be well-equipped to assess her urinary issues in the context of her surgical history. They may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as a urinalysis, urine culture, or imaging studies, to rule out any anatomical abnormalities or persistent infections.

Additionally, considering her surgical history, it may be worthwhile to explore whether there are any complications related to the surgical mesh or sutures that could be causing her symptoms. Sometimes, surgical materials can lead to irritation or infection, which may not be easily diagnosed without specific imaging or examination.

In summary, while a urinary tract infection could be a contributing factor to your mother's symptoms, it is essential to consider other potential causes, including complications from her previous surgery and other medical conditions. A multidisciplinary approach involving a urologist and possibly other specialists, such as a gynecologist or a primary care physician, may provide a more comprehensive understanding of her health issues and lead to more effective treatment options. Encouraging her to maintain hydration, monitor her symptoms closely, and seek timely medical advice will be crucial in managing her condition.

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