White Particles in Urine: Causes and Concerns - Urology

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The urine may contain white particles?


Hello Dr.
Liu, I would like to ask you some questions.
Here are the situations I have experienced:
1.
Sometimes I experience pain during urination, and my urine appears cloudy.
When it is cloudy, I notice small white particles in my urine.
What could this be? Is it kidney stones or protein in the urine?
2.
Occasionally, I feel a burning sensation in my penis.
3.
When I experience pain while urinating, I also feel frequent urination both before and after urination.
4.
Sometimes I have abdominal pain.
I have had a urinalysis, but the doctor told me everything was normal.
Therefore, I thought I might have kidney stones and didn't pay much attention to it.
Recently, I noticed that whenever I engage in sexual activity, these symptoms reappear a few hours later, similar to the first point.
Could I have a sexually transmitted infection?

Ya Q, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/10/28

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology


A burning sensation? It is very likely a urinary tract infection.
When symptoms occur, it is best to go to the hospital immediately (you can go to the emergency room at night) for a urinalysis and further evaluation and treatment.

Reply Date: 2006/10/28

More Info


Understanding the presence of white particles in urine can be concerning, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as pain during urination, cloudy urine, and a burning sensation. Let's break down your questions and concerns systematically.

1. White Particles in Urine: The appearance of white particles in urine can be attributed to several factors. These particles could be due to the presence of crystals, which may indicate the formation of kidney stones or urinary tract stones. However, they could also be mucus, pus, or even cellular debris resulting from an infection or inflammation in the urinary tract. Given that you mentioned experiencing pain and cloudy urine, it is essential to consider the possibility of a urinary tract infection (UTI) or other underlying conditions.

2. Pain and Burning Sensation: The symptoms of pain during urination and a burning sensation are often associated with infections, such as UTIs or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Infections can cause inflammation of the urinary tract, leading to discomfort and the presence of white blood cells or pus in the urine, which may appear as white particles. If these symptoms occur after sexual activity, it raises the possibility of an STI, which can also cause similar symptoms.

3. Frequent Urination: The sensation of needing to urinate frequently, both before and after urination, can be a sign of irritation in the bladder or urethra, often due to infection or inflammation. This symptom can also be exacerbated by anxiety or stress, which can lead to increased awareness of bodily sensations.

4. Abdominal Pain: Abdominal pain can be associated with various conditions, including urinary tract issues, kidney stones, or even gastrointestinal problems. If the pain is localized to the lower abdomen, it may correlate with bladder or urethral irritation.

5. Previous Urine Tests: It is reassuring that previous urine tests indicated normal results. However, it is important to note that urine tests may not always detect all conditions, especially if the infection is not active at the time of testing. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to seek further evaluation, including a more comprehensive urine analysis or imaging studies to rule out stones or other abnormalities.

6. Sexual Activity and Symptoms: The correlation between sexual activity and the onset of your symptoms is noteworthy. Certain STIs, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, can cause urethritis, leading to pain, burning, and discharge. If you suspect that your symptoms may be related to an STI, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for appropriate testing and treatment.


Recommendations:
- Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a urologist or a healthcare provider specializing in sexual health. They can perform a thorough examination, including a detailed history and physical examination, and may recommend further testing, such as urine cultures or STI screenings.

- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help dilute your urine and may alleviate some symptoms, especially if they are related to irritation or infection.

- Avoid Irritants: Consider avoiding potential irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, which can exacerbate urinary symptoms.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any associated activities (like sexual activity). This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing and treating your condition.

In conclusion, while the presence of white particles in urine can be benign, it is essential to consider the context of your symptoms. Persistent or worsening symptoms warrant further investigation to ensure appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

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