Urological Issues: Childhood Symptoms and Kidney Health - Urology

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Urinary tract issues


Doctor, when I was about ten years old, I experienced pain while urinating and had pus on the glans.
However, I did not receive any treatment until puberty, when I noticed that when I strained to have a bowel movement, semen would come out.
Later, around the age of eighteen, I visited a traditional Chinese medicine doctor who said I had issues with my lower jiao.
After taking medication for about three days, my urinary problems were completely resolved.
My question is, could my childhood issues have affected my kidneys? In my twenties, I consulted a nephrologist who said my kidneys were in good condition.

Xiao Wei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/04/12

Dr. Liu Jiaju reply Urology


Xiao Wei: Your issue is likely a urinary tract infection.
With proper treatment, it should not affect the kidneys.
I recommend that if there is no improvement, you should consult a urologist for a detailed examination and treatment.

Reply Date: 2012/04/12

More Info


Understanding urological issues in childhood, particularly symptoms related to kidney health, is crucial for ensuring long-term well-being. Your experience of painful urination and the presence of discharge during childhood raises important questions about potential impacts on kidney health and overall urological function.

Firstly, it is essential to recognize that childhood urological symptoms, such as painful urination (dysuria) and discharge, can be indicative of underlying conditions, including urinary tract infections (UTIs) or other infections. In your case, the presence of a scab and pus on the glans (the head of the penis) suggests that there may have been an infection or inflammation, possibly related to conditions like balanitis or posthitis, which can occur when the head of the penis is not properly cleaned or when there is an infection.

While you did not receive treatment at the time, it is fortunate that you did not experience any long-term complications that affected your kidney health. The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste from the blood and maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance. If a urinary tract infection ascends from the bladder to the kidneys, it can lead to pyelonephritis, which can potentially cause kidney damage if left untreated. However, since you reported that your kidney function was assessed as good in your twenties, it is likely that any infections you experienced did not lead to significant kidney damage.

The fact that you sought treatment later in life and found relief from your symptoms indicates that your urological health improved. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) approaches, which often focus on balancing the body's energies and addressing underlying imbalances, can be effective for some individuals. The concept of "lower jiao" in TCM refers to the lower part of the body, including the kidneys and bladder, and addressing issues in this area can lead to improvements in urological symptoms.

In terms of potential long-term effects on your kidneys, it is reassuring that a healthcare provider has evaluated your kidney health and found it to be normal. Regular check-ups and monitoring are essential, especially if there is a history of urological issues. Maintaining good hydration, practicing proper hygiene, and seeking prompt medical attention for any recurrent symptoms can help protect kidney health.

If you have ongoing concerns about your urological health or any potential lingering effects from your childhood experiences, it may be beneficial to consult a urologist or nephrologist. They can provide a thorough evaluation and recommend any necessary tests to ensure your kidneys and urinary system remain healthy.

In summary, while childhood urological symptoms can raise concerns about kidney health, your reported good kidney function in adulthood suggests that any issues you experienced did not lead to lasting damage. It is always wise to remain vigilant about urological health and seek medical advice when needed to ensure ongoing well-being.

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