Brown sediment in urine?
Hello Dr.
Du, I have a question again.
My last visit to the urologist was on April 30, and the urinalysis results were normal, with a post-void residual volume of 57 mL.
The doctor advised me to return for a follow-up in six months and to undergo an ultrasound.
Yesterday afternoon and today, I noticed sediment in my urine that looked like sand grains.
I discarded the urine and collected the sediment, but when I touched it, it was sticky like mud on the tissue.
Could this be the passage of kidney stones (I previously had some stones smaller than 0.4 cm detected on a CT scan for other conditions), or could it be something else? Should I seek medical attention, or is it okay to just observe for now? Currently, I have no other discomfort.
Thank you for your guidance.
Er Mao, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/06/14
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Given your age and the presence of foreign objects in your urine, it is important to follow up with a medical appointment.
You mentioned that it could possibly be small kidney stones, which is a significant possibility, but other causes cannot be ruled out.
Wishing you good health.
Reply Date: 2018/06/14
More Info
Brown sediment in urine can be concerning, and it’s important to understand what it might indicate. Based on your description, the sediment resembling sand or mud could be due to several factors, including the presence of kidney stones, urinary tract infections, or other underlying conditions.
Firstly, it’s worth noting that the appearance of sediment in urine can be normal in some cases, especially if it consists of mucus, epithelial cells, or crystallized substances. However, given your history of kidney stones, it’s prudent to consider that the sediment could be related to stone passage. Kidney stones can vary in size, and even small stones can cause discomfort or changes in urine appearance. The fact that you previously had stones detected via CT scan adds to the possibility that you might be experiencing the passage of these stones.
The characteristics of the sediment you described—being sticky and resembling mud—could suggest that it contains organic material or a combination of minerals and cellular debris. If the sediment is indeed from kidney stones, it may be composed of calcium, uric acid, or other compounds, depending on the type of stones you have.
While you mentioned that you currently have no other symptoms, such as pain, hematuria (blood in urine), or urinary frequency, it is still advisable to monitor your condition closely. If the sediment persists, or if you develop any additional symptoms, it would be wise to consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation, such as a repeat urinalysis, imaging studies, or even a referral to a urologist for a more comprehensive assessment.
In the meantime, staying well-hydrated is crucial. Increased fluid intake can help flush out the urinary system and may assist in passing any small stones. Additionally, keeping track of any changes in your urine, such as color, odor, or the presence of pain, can provide valuable information for your healthcare provider.
If you notice any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:
- Severe pain in the lower back or abdomen
- Blood in the urine
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Fever or chills, which could indicate an infection
In summary, while brown sediment in urine can sometimes be benign, given your medical history, it’s essential to remain vigilant. Observing your symptoms and maintaining communication with your healthcare provider will help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. If the sediment continues or worsens, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice for further evaluation and management.
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