Frequent Urination and Pubic Pain: Causes and Solutions - Urology

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Frequent urination and pubic pain?


Hello Dr.
Du, last month I experienced severe frequent urination (I don't feel the urge when sitting, but as soon as I stand up, I have an urgent need to urinate, and sometimes I leak before I reach the bathroom).
I need to go to the restroom approximately every 20 minutes to an hour, with a single urine volume of about 150cc.
I went to the hospital for a check-up, and although the urinalysis was normal, the outpatient physician prescribed me antibiotics and medication for overactive bladder.

During my follow-up appointment a week later, I mentioned that I had a dull pain in my left lower back, but the physician said the urinalysis was clean and it was likely a muscle strain.
Even if there was an infection, I was prescribed antibiotics again.
In the second week, since my symptoms did not improve, the physician prescribed a different antibiotic along with two types of overactive bladder medications (noting that they might cause significant dizziness, so only two were prescribed).

In the third week, my condition still did not improve, and the physician stopped the antibiotics, switching to three types of overactive bladder medications.
However, since last night, I have been experiencing a dull pain in both sides of my pubic bone, which becomes more pronounced when pressed.
I am unsure if this is a symptom of an underlying condition or if pubic bone pressure is normally painful.
Additionally, the pain in my left lower back has worsened.

I would like to know if you recommend observing my symptoms for a few more days and waiting until my follow-up appointment next Friday for the physician to examine me, or if you would suggest that I seek another evaluation at the hospital as soon as possible.
Also, could the pain in these two areas be related to my frequent urination? What possible conditions could this indicate? Thank you for your assistance, Dr.
Du.

Yilin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/22

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: If there are changes and persistent pain, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
Bilateral pain may be related to frequent urination, but there should be other symptoms present.
It's important to maintain proper hydration and avoid beverages that may irritate the bladder.
If you are taking other medications, be sure to inform your physician.
As for the left flank pain, it may not be related to urination; consider whether there has been any intense physical activity.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/01/22

More Info


Frequent urination and pubic pain can be distressing symptoms that significantly impact your quality of life. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of urinary urgency, potential pelvic pain, and discomfort in the lumbar region. These symptoms can arise from various underlying conditions, and understanding the potential causes can help guide appropriate treatment.

Firstly, frequent urination, especially when accompanied by urgency (the sudden, compelling need to urinate), can be indicative of several conditions. One common cause is overactive bladder (OAB), a condition characterized by an increased frequency of urination and urgency, often without a urinary tract infection (UTI). In your case, it appears that your urine tests have ruled out infection, which is a positive sign. However, OAB can still be present and may require specific treatment options, such as anticholinergic medications or beta-3 adrenergic agonists, which help relax the bladder muscle.

Another possibility is interstitial cystitis (IC), also known as painful bladder syndrome. This condition can cause chronic pelvic pain, frequent urination, and urgency. It is often diagnosed when other causes of bladder symptoms have been excluded. The presence of pelvic pain, especially if it is associated with bladder filling or urination, can be a significant indicator of IC. In some cases, bladder distension or hydrodistension, as well as treatments like bladder instillations with hyaluronic acid, may be recommended to alleviate symptoms.

Your mention of left lumbar pain could also be relevant. While it may be attributed to muscle strain, it is essential to consider that kidney issues or referred pain from the bladder or pelvic region could also manifest as back pain. If the pain persists or worsens, further imaging studies or evaluations may be warranted to rule out any underlying renal issues or other anatomical concerns.

Regarding your current treatment regimen, it is understandable to feel frustrated, especially if symptoms have not improved despite the use of antibiotics and medications for OAB. It is crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about the lack of improvement and any new symptoms, such as the pubic pain you are experiencing. If the pain is exacerbated by pressure, it may suggest a musculoskeletal issue, but it could also be related to the bladder or pelvic floor dysfunction.

In terms of next steps, if your symptoms are significantly impacting your daily life, it may be prudent to seek a follow-up appointment sooner rather than waiting for your scheduled visit. A thorough evaluation by a urologist or a pelvic floor specialist could provide more insights into your condition. They may recommend additional tests, such as urodynamic studies, which assess how well the bladder and urethra are functioning, or imaging studies to evaluate the pelvic organs.

In summary, frequent urination and pubic pain can stem from various conditions, including overactive bladder, interstitial cystitis, or musculoskeletal issues. It is essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to explore these possibilities and develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. Don't hesitate to advocate for yourself and seek further evaluation if your symptoms persist or worsen. Your comfort and well-being are paramount, and addressing these symptoms effectively can lead to a significant improvement in your quality of life.

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