Does Drinking Water Affect Urinalysis Accuracy for Urethritis? - Urology

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Drinking water can indeed affect the accuracy of urinalysis results, particularly in the context of diagnosing urethritis or urinary tract infections (UTIs). When you consume a significant amount of water, as you did (1500-2000cc), it dilutes the urine. This dilution can lead to a lower concentration of substances that are typically measured during urinalysis, such as white blood cells, bacteria, and other indicators of infection.
In your case, the initial urinalysis conducted at the clinic indicated mild urethritis, which suggests some level of inflammation or infection. However, when you returned to the hospital after drinking a large volume of water, the urinalysis showed no signs of infection. This discrepancy can be attributed to the dilution effect caused by the excessive water intake. Essentially, the urine may have been too diluted to detect the presence of bacteria or inflammatory markers that would typically indicate an infection.

It's important to note that urinalysis can be affected by various factors, including hydration status, the timing of the test, and the method used for analysis. For instance, the first test used a dipstick method, which can sometimes yield false positives or negatives depending on the concentration of the urine. In contrast, the hospital's urinalysis likely involved more sophisticated techniques, such as centrifugation and microscopic examination, which can provide a more accurate assessment of the urine's composition.

To further clarify your situation, if you are experiencing symptoms such as unusual odor and burning during urination, it is advisable to monitor these symptoms closely. Mild urethritis can sometimes resolve on its own, but persistent or worsening symptoms may require further evaluation and possibly treatment.
In terms of medical knowledge, urethritis can be caused by various factors, including bacterial infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and irritants. Symptoms typically include burning during urination, increased frequency of urination, and sometimes discharge. If you suspect an infection, it's crucial to seek medical advice, as untreated infections can lead to more severe complications.

In conclusion, while drinking a large amount of water can dilute urine and potentially affect urinalysis results, it is essential to consider the overall clinical picture, including symptoms and any additional tests that may be warranted. If you continue to experience symptoms or have concerns about your urinary health, I recommend following up with a healthcare provider for a comprehensive evaluation.