Do I Need to See a Psychiatrist for My Anxiety About UTI Symptoms?

Do I need to go to the outpatient clinic for this?

Hello, Doctor: From June to September of this year, I experienced recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) approximately every 1.5 weeks.
Although the final medical evaluation confirmed that I have kidney inflammation and I am currently undergoing medication treatment, I have noticed that I feel very anxious about these recurring symptoms.
I often worry about the possibility of another episode.
When I am at home, I feel more at ease because I can use the bathroom anytime.
However, as soon as I know I have to go out (for example, to a bookstore), or if I am already outside, I start to worry about whether there will be a place to use the restroom.
My heart rate and breathing seem to quicken, and I find myself unconsciously wanting to go to the bathroom.
I often tell myself that I don't need to go, but the more I think about it, the more this feeling intensifies.
I even feel uncomfortable and uneasy, and at times, I become fearful of going out (even walking to the end of the street to take out the trash makes me feel uneasy).
Is this considered anxiety? I cannot relax when I go out, and I constantly think about whether I will need to use the restroom and not have a place to do so, or why I keep feeling the urge to go.
Why do I feel my heart rate and breathing quicken and feel uncomfortable when I am outside? I am about to enlist in the military, and I am worried that many outdoor activities will make me feel anxious.
Could you please provide some guidance on whether there are ways to address this? Or should I consider seeing a mental health specialist?

Da P, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/10/01

Dr. Su Zongwei reply Psychiatry

Yes, it does seem that you are experiencing anxiety symptoms, and there appear to be signs of situational phobia.
If these symptoms are caused by a urinary tract infection (UTI), it would be advisable to wait for a period after treatment to see if there is improvement.
However, if similar symptoms persist after the UTI has resolved, it is recommended to seek an outpatient evaluation.

Reply Date: 2006/10/01

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing significant anxiety related to your recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and the fear of having to manage these symptoms while outside your home. Your concerns about needing to find a restroom, the physical sensations of increased heart rate and breathing, and the discomfort you feel when anticipating being away from home are all indicative of anxiety.
Anxiety can manifest in various ways, and in your case, it seems to be closely tied to the fear of experiencing UTI symptoms in public settings. This is not uncommon, especially for individuals who have faced recurrent health issues. The worry and anticipation of needing to use the restroom can create a cycle of anxiety that exacerbates your symptoms. This is often referred to as "anticipatory anxiety," where the fear of a future event (in this case, needing to find a restroom) leads to heightened anxiety and physical symptoms.

Given your situation, it would be beneficial to consider seeking help from a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. They can provide you with strategies to manage your anxiety, which may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is particularly effective for anxiety disorders as it helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies. Additionally, a mental health professional can assess whether medication might be appropriate for your anxiety, especially if it is significantly impacting your daily life and ability to function.

In the meantime, there are several self-help strategies you can try to manage your anxiety:
1. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce anxiety symptoms. These techniques can help ground you in the present moment and alleviate the physical sensations of anxiety.

2. Gradual Exposure: Gradually exposing yourself to situations that trigger your anxiety can help desensitize you to those fears. Start with short outings where you feel relatively safe and gradually increase the duration and complexity of your outings.

3. Journaling: Keeping a journal to document your feelings and experiences can help you identify patterns in your anxiety. Writing about your fears can also provide a sense of relief and clarity.

4. Establish a Support System: Talk to friends or family members about your feelings. Having a support system can provide comfort and reassurance when you are feeling anxious.

5. Plan Ahead: When you know you will be going out, plan your route and identify potential restrooms along the way. Having a plan can help reduce anxiety about finding a restroom.

6. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: Both substances can increase anxiety levels and may exacerbate the physical symptoms you are experiencing.

Your anxiety about needing to manage UTI symptoms is valid, and it is important to address it. Seeking help from a mental health professional can provide you with the tools you need to cope with your anxiety effectively. Remember, you are not alone in this, and many people experience similar feelings. Taking the step to seek help is a positive move toward regaining control over your anxiety and improving your overall well-being.

Similar Q&A

Do I Need to See a Psychiatrist for My Anxiety and Urgency Issues?

Hello, doctor. Recently, I have been feeling inexplicably anxious and tense, and whenever I get nervous, I feel an overwhelming urge to use the restroom that I can hardly control. This situation has been bothering me for several years, but it has become increasingly severe lately...

Dr. Chen Wenyu reply Psychiatry
Hello Claire: Your issue is clearly an anxiety disorder, and the situation appears to be somewhat severe, as you are experiencing what is known as "phobia." You have started to avoid certain situations or environments. This condition requires a combination of medication...

Understanding Urinary Issues: When to Seek Further Medical Help

Doctor, I have a long-standing habit of holding in my urine. Last month, I went for an examination, and the doctor said I had a urinary tract infection. I was prescribed medication (for bacterial infection and frequent urination), and I was told there was no need for a follow-up ...

Dr. Du Mingyi reply Urology
There's no need to be overly anxious; it's unlikely for someone in their 20s to have cancer. It's more likely a common urinary tract infection, which is quite frequent among young women. Try to avoid holding in urine. If there are symptoms of depression or anxiety,...

Do I Need to See a Doctor for My Anxiety and Mental Health Concerns?

Sometimes I worry about everything and find it hard to trust what I see, often leading to repetitive checking. When I'm anxious, I tend to become overly tense, and my mood fluctuates greatly. I frequently experience negative thoughts, and sometimes my anxiety makes me want t...

Dr. Duan Yongzhang reply Psychiatry
Hello! It is recommended that you visit a psychiatric outpatient clinic for an in-person consultation with a physician to understand your condition. If you are over 18 years old, you can see a general psychiatrist; if you are under 18, you should see a child psychiatrist.

Understanding Urinary Incontinence Linked to Anxiety: A Dual Approach

I have been seeing a psychiatrist for a long time and have also been using a masturbation cup for an extended period. My wife can cooperate with reducing its use, but she cannot agree to increase its use. Recently, I have experienced urinary incontinence, wetting myself multiple ...

Dr. Sun Hongshun reply Urology
Hello Mr. Chen: I recommend that you first visit a urologist for a basic examination. Issues such as urinary tract infections, overactive bladder, or prostate problems could be causing your symptoms. I hope we can address your concerns initially. If the symptoms persist, we can c...