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