Bladder Infections: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery

Q: Bladder Infections: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery

Hello： 1) There is no need to drink too much; if you work indoors and do not sweat, 2000-3000 mL is sufficient. <br>Additionally, maintain a light diet, avoid coffee and tea, do not hold in urine, and prevent constipation. <br>Try not to sit for too long at a time; get up and mov

Bladder infection with urethral discomfort?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about my recent visits.
During my first appointment, they did not perform a urinalysis and diagnosed me with a urinary tract infection based on my symptoms.
I took the medication for six days, but there was not much improvement.
Later, I went to a second clinic where they did a urinalysis, and the bacterial count was high (indicated by purple, with a bit of protein in the urine).
I have been taking my medication regularly and drinking 3000cc of water daily.
After finishing four days of medication, I returned for a follow-up urinalysis, and the bacterial count was normal (indicated by white).
The doctor then prescribed another four days of medication.
Now, on the seventh day, I feel much better, but I still have a slight burning sensation in my urethra, and I frequently feel the urge to urinate even when my bladder is empty.
The symptoms fluctuate, but there is no pain when I urinate.
I am also drinking nearly 4000cc of water a day.
Is this normal? Could it be that I am not fully recovered, or is there a possibility that I have kidney issues? Thank you.

Xiao Xiao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/03

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: 1) There is no need to drink too much; if you work indoors and do not sweat, 2000-3000 mL is sufficient.
Additionally, maintain a light diet, avoid coffee and tea, do not hold in urine, and prevent constipation.
Try not to sit for too long at a time; get up and move around, which will generally lead to gradual improvement.
2) If you have been taking medication for a while and your urine is clear without pain, it is likely that you have mostly recovered (unless you are a patient who experiences 2-4 infections per year) or have nephritis, in which case a longer course of medication may be necessary.
If you are concerned, you can return for a urine test.
3) If a woman experiences lower back pain and increased discharge, it is advisable to see a gynecologist, as it may indicate a gynecological infection.
Kidney issues are more complex and require examination; it cannot be definitively stated whether there is a problem, but generally, younger individuals tend to be fine.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/06/03

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you've been through quite a journey with your bladder infection, and I appreciate you sharing your experience. Let's break down your situation regarding bladder infections, symptoms, treatment, and recovery.

Bladder infections, also known as cystitis, are a common type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that can cause a range of symptoms. These typically include a frequent urge to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and sometimes pelvic discomfort. In some cases, individuals may also experience lower abdominal pain or fever.

From your description, it seems that you initially experienced symptoms that led to a diagnosis of bladder infection without a urine test. This can sometimes happen, as doctors may base their diagnosis on symptoms alone, especially if they are classic indicators of a UTI. However, urine tests are crucial for confirming the presence of bacteria and determining the appropriate antibiotic treatment.

You mentioned that after six days of medication with little improvement, you sought a second opinion where a urine test revealed a high bacterial count. This is an important step, as it allows for targeted treatment. The fact that your symptoms improved after starting a new course of antibiotics is a positive sign. It indicates that the medication is likely effective against the bacteria causing your infection.

Regarding your current symptoms, such as the persistent urge to urinate and the sensation of burning or discomfort, it's not uncommon for these symptoms to linger even after the infection has been treated. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as "post-infectious syndrome," where the bladder may remain sensitive for some time after the infection has cleared. The bladder lining can take time to heal, and irritation may persist even when there is no active infection.

Drinking a significant amount of water, like the 3000-4000cc you mentioned, is generally beneficial as it helps flush out the urinary system and can aid in recovery. However, if you are experiencing an overwhelming urge to urinate without producing much urine, it could be a sign of bladder irritation or inflammation that may take time to resolve.

As for your concern about kidney issues, it’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience any new symptoms such as flank pain, fever, or changes in urine color or consistency, it would be wise to consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend further testing, including blood tests or imaging studies, to ensure that your kidneys are functioning well and that there are no complications from the infection.

In summary, while it sounds like you are on the right track with your treatment, it’s important to continue following up with your healthcare provider. They can help monitor your recovery and address any lingering symptoms. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice. Your health is paramount, and staying proactive about your symptoms is key to a full recovery. Wishing you a smooth and speedy recovery!

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