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What Causes UTI?
Question: 60 y.o. post menopausal female. Hypothyroidism. Med 100mcg Tirosint.
Several years ago I had an unusual feeling of pressure, sort of like I need to expel something through my vagina, a Gyn nurse told me it was a UTI (even though I had no other symptoms)and indeed it was. I've had that same feeling many many times but each time I get checked I'm told I have no infection. 2 weeks ago had a true UTI, urgency, burning etc was put on Cipro for 3 days but it didn't feel like it was cleared. Last Saturday it started again with the tenderness around the pubic region and urgency although no burning. Did a home test and showed Ok for nitrites but XXXXXXX positive for Leucocytes. Went to dr next day he put me on Macrobid tested and got the same result of very high Leucocytes he said he'd send off for a culture as it seemed that I was starting another UTI. Today again I'm having the spasms of wanting to expel something but the Dr says the results of the culture were negative. What's going on?
Several years ago I had an unusual feeling of pressure, sort of like I need to expel something through my vagina, a Gyn nurse told me it was a UTI (even though I had no other symptoms)and indeed it was. I've had that same feeling many many times but each time I get checked I'm told I have no infection. 2 weeks ago had a true UTI, urgency, burning etc was put on Cipro for 3 days but it didn't feel like it was cleared. Last Saturday it started again with the tenderness around the pubic region and urgency although no burning. Did a home test and showed Ok for nitrites but XXXXXXX positive for Leucocytes. Went to dr next day he put me on Macrobid tested and got the same result of very high Leucocytes he said he'd send off for a culture as it seemed that I was starting another UTI. Today again I'm having the spasms of wanting to expel something but the Dr says the results of the culture were negative. What's going on?
Brief Answer:
Could be interstitial cystitis
Detailed Answer:
Interstitial cystitis is a chronic bladder irritation that causes the same symptoms as a UTI. Inflammatory conditions like it can cause a positive test for leukocytes but negative culture results. It can cause significant bladder discomfort and can be hard to treat. Since you have had so many episodes, you may want to see a urologist. This specialist can do a cystoscopy which shows the inside lining of your bladder. He or she may then be able to identify inflammation or other causes of your symptoms.
Hope this answers your query. If you have further questions, I would be happy to answer them.
Could be interstitial cystitis
Detailed Answer:
Interstitial cystitis is a chronic bladder irritation that causes the same symptoms as a UTI. Inflammatory conditions like it can cause a positive test for leukocytes but negative culture results. It can cause significant bladder discomfort and can be hard to treat. Since you have had so many episodes, you may want to see a urologist. This specialist can do a cystoscopy which shows the inside lining of your bladder. He or she may then be able to identify inflammation or other causes of your symptoms.
Hope this answers your query. If you have further questions, I would be happy to answer them.
Note: Consult a Urologist online for consultation about prostate and bladder problems, sexual dysfunction, kidney stones, prostate enlargement, urinary incontinence, impotence and erectile dysfunction - Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
Answered by
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