Sand in Urine: Causes and When to Seek Medical Help - Urology

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Passing sand-like particles in urine?


Hello doctor, I went surfing at the beach yesterday, and today I noticed a lot of sand in my urine, but I don't feel any discomfort.
Could this be due to drinking too much seawater or could sand have entered my urinary tract? Do I need to seek medical attention?

Hong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/03

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: Drink more water.
If there is no frequent urination, you may observe the urinary pain for now.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/08/03

More Info


When it comes to the presence of sand or sediment in urine, it is important to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention. In your case, having been at the beach and noticing sand in your urine without any discomfort raises a few considerations.

First, it is unlikely that the sand you see in your urine is a result of sand entering your urinary tract. The urinary system is designed to prevent foreign particles from entering, and the presence of sand in urine is more commonly associated with the formation of crystals or sediment due to various factors, such as dehydration, dietary habits, or underlying medical conditions.

One possible explanation for the appearance of sand in your urine could be related to dehydration. When you are at the beach, especially if you are active like surfing, you may not drink enough water to stay hydrated. Dehydration can lead to concentrated urine, which may cause the formation of crystals or sediment. This is often seen with certain types of urinary crystals, such as calcium oxalate or uric acid crystals, which can appear as sand-like particles.

Another consideration is the possibility of a urinary tract infection (UTI) or kidney stones. While you mentioned that you do not have any discomfort, it is still important to monitor for any symptoms that may develop, such as pain during urination, frequent urination, or lower abdominal pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, it would be advisable to seek medical attention.

In general, if you notice persistent sand or sediment in your urine, or if you develop any accompanying symptoms, it is a good idea to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend a urinalysis to check for any abnormalities, such as the presence of crystals, bacteria, or blood in the urine, which could indicate an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

In summary, while the presence of sand in your urine after a day at the beach may not be immediately concerning, it is essential to stay hydrated and monitor for any changes in your urinary habits or discomfort. If the situation persists or worsens, seeking medical advice is the best course of action to ensure your urinary health is not compromised.

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