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.
Similar Q&A
Understanding Kidney Issues: Symptoms and Concerns for Students
Hello, I am a bit concerned about my kidney health. A few days ago, I experienced symptoms of a urethral infection (itching 1-2 times a day for 2 days). I sometimes have intermittent pain in my lower back, lasting 5 to 10 seconds each time, with the location varying. When I tap o...
Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: If the urine test for the kidneys is normal, a blood test may still be necessary. Additionally, drinking 2500-3500 ml of water a day is recommended (based on your age). If you sit for a long time, make sure to get up and move around. Many people experience urinary symptoms...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Issues: Symptoms and Concerns for Students
Understanding Symptoms of Kidney Issues: Fatigue and Dark Circles
Hello doctor, if I often feel weakness in my lower body, get easily fatigued, and have dark circles under my eyes, could these be signs of kidney problems? Additionally, what causes kidney dysfunction? Thank you.
Dr. Chen Qiunan reply Urology
Hello Mr. B, the symptoms you mentioned are not commonly associated with kidney diseases; they are considered non-specific symptoms that can occur in many conditions. Typical symptoms of kidney diseases include fever, back pain, proteinuria, hematuria, hypertension, polyuria, or ...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms of Kidney Issues: Fatigue and Dark Circles
Understanding Uremia: Symptoms, Kidney Inflammation, and Care Tips
Urinary uremia is said to be caused by kidney inflammation. What are the symptoms of kidney inflammation? I've been feeling strange in the lower back on both sides recently. Also, how can I take care of my kidneys? What dietary considerations should I keep in mind?
Dr. Ke Zhengchang reply Internal Medicine
Hello, A-Feng: In cases of kidney inflammation, it is essential to perform a urinalysis, along with testing for BUN and creatinine levels to assess your kidney function. Generally, uremia is indicated by BUN levels greater than 100 and creatinine levels greater than 10, accompani...[Read More] Understanding Uremia: Symptoms, Kidney Inflammation, and Care Tips
Understanding Kidney Issues: Possible Causes and Diagnostic Steps
Hello Doctor: During a health check-up last September, I was found to have hematuria (1+). A urine test at the end of July also showed hematuria, but kidney function was normal. Last week, I underwent another routine urine test and a urine red blood cell morphology test, which al...
Dr. Lin Wuxuan reply Internal Medicine
Hello: Your condition is classified as microscopic hematuria. Generally, the causes of this mild urinary occult blood need to first rule out interference from menstruation. If the urine test is conducted during the menstrual period, it often leads to false-positive results. The p...[Read More] Understanding Kidney Issues: Possible Causes and Diagnostic Steps
Related FAQ
(Pediatrics)
Kidneys(Urology)
Urination(Pediatrics)
Chronic Kidney Disease(Urology)
Urinary Tract Infection(Pediatrics)
Ureter(Pediatrics)
Kidney Stones(Urology)
Urination(Urology)
Hematuria(Urology)
Infectious Diseases(Urology)