After urination, there is still a sensation of urgency, and the urine specific gravity test results are low?
Hello Doctor: I have a persistent feeling of needing to urinate even after I finish, but I only pass a few drops.
After urination, I usually feel uncomfortable, and there is a slight presence of blood.
I have indeed been drinking very little water these past two days and am currently taking antibiotics for a urinary tract infection.
However, the urinalysis shows low specific gravity.
Can urinary tract infections cause low specific gravity, especially in the context of low fluid intake? The following test results are abnormal; should I schedule a follow-up appointment with a specialist? Thank you.
Bacteria 1+ (203) HWBC 49 HBlood Trace HWBC esterase 1+ SP.
Gravity 1.002 L
Niu Bao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/06/03
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: The report seems to indicate inflammation.
As for whether the specific gravity is low, it can also be related to the amount of water consumed before the test.
However, urine tests are also dependent on the proper collection of urine samples.
Generally, it is advisable to repeat the test if necessary.
Wishing you good health.
Reply Date: 2024/06/03
More Info
Low urine specific gravity, as indicated by a measurement of 1.002, suggests that your urine is quite dilute. This can occur for several reasons, including high fluid intake, certain medical conditions, or even the effects of medications. In your case, you mentioned that you have been drinking very little water, which typically would lead to more concentrated urine, not dilute. This discrepancy could indicate an underlying issue that warrants further investigation.
The presence of urgency after urination, where you feel the need to urinate again shortly after having just done so, combined with the sensation of incomplete bladder emptying (only a few drops of urine) and the presence of blood, raises concerns for a urinary tract infection (UTI) or other urinary tract issues. The fact that you are currently on antibiotics suggests that your healthcare provider is treating you for a suspected UTI, which is a common cause of these symptoms.
In terms of your specific questions regarding urine specific gravity and its relation to urinary tract infections, it is important to note that while UTIs can sometimes lead to changes in urine concentration, they typically do not cause low specific gravity on their own. Instead, low specific gravity can be associated with conditions such as diabetes insipidus, chronic kidney disease, or excessive fluid intake. Given that you are experiencing symptoms of a UTI, it is crucial to monitor your condition closely.
The presence of bacteria in your urine (1+) indicates a possible infection, and the trace blood could be a sign of irritation or inflammation in the urinary tract, which can occur with UTIs. The elevated white blood cell count (49) further supports the likelihood of an infection, as this is a common response of the body to fight off pathogens.
Given your symptoms and the lab findings, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider or a urologist. They may want to conduct further tests, such as a urine culture, to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and determine the appropriate antibiotic treatment. Additionally, they may perform imaging studies or a cystoscopy if they suspect any structural abnormalities in the urinary tract.
In summary, your low urine specific gravity, along with the urgency, incomplete emptying, and blood in the urine, suggests a potential urinary tract infection or another underlying condition. It is essential to seek further evaluation and treatment from a healthcare professional to address these symptoms effectively. Staying hydrated is also crucial, but be sure to follow your doctor's recommendations regarding fluid intake, especially while on antibiotics.
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