Urinary Tract Infections and Urine Analysis

Abnormal Urine Characteristics

• Nitrites in urine indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Red blood cells in urine indicate hematuria, often due to infection or injury
• White blood cells (pus) in urine indicate infection
• Glucose in urine indicates glycosuria, often due to diabetes
• Bile in urine indicates signs of liver disease
• Milky or cloudy urine can be caused by bacteria, crystals, fat, white or red blood cells, or mucus

Urine Output

• Normal 24-hour urine volume is 800-2,000 milliliters per day
• Oliguria: abnormally small amount of urine, often due to shock or kidney damage
• Polyuria: abnormally large amount of urine, often caused by diabetes
• Dysuria: painful or uncomfortable urination, often from UTI

Common Symptoms of Urinary Problems

• Abdominal cramping
• Abdominal, pelvic, or back pain
• Bloody or pink-colored urine (hematuria)
• Cloudy urine
• Fever and chills
• Frequent urination
• General ill feeling
• Leaking of urine
• Pain or burning with urination (dysuria)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Urgent need to urinate
• Incontinence: involuntary loss of bladder and bowel control

Urinary Problems

• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): infection in any part of the urinary system
  • Symptoms: strong urge to urinate, burning feeling when urinating, urinating often, cloudy urine, red or pink urine, strong-smelling urine, pelvic pain
• Bladder Infections (Cystitis): usually caused by bacteria
• Kidney Infections: when a bladder infection 'backs up' the ureters
• Kidney Stones: foods that increase the risk include those high in sodium, cola beverages, fast foods, processed meats, certain supplements, black tea, and chocolate

This quiz covers the signs and symptoms of urinary tract infections, including cloudy or milky urine, and the analysis of urine components such as hemoglobin, nitrites, and white blood cells.