Concerns About a Urinalysis Result and Antibiotic Prescription
As a 54-year-old woman, I recently visited my doctor for a routine lab test, feeling perfectly healthy. While preparing to provide a urine sample, I realized that I was not only short on urine but also urgently needed to use the bathroom. In an attempt to fill the cup as best as I could while holding back the urge to poop, I managed to produce a small amount of urine. I noticed that I was quite close to an accident but ultimately succeeded in filling the cup before rushing to the toilet to relieve myself. After the sample collection, I didn’t observe any fecal matter on the cup or anything concerning. Fast forward four days, and I received a call informing me that antibiotics had been prescribed for a urinary tract infection (UTI). Although I am no stranger to UTIs from two decades ago, I am currently asymptomatic. When I questioned the medical staff about the necessity of taking antibiotics given my lack of symptoms, they firmly asserted that it was essential. I felt hesitant to discuss the potential contamination of my sample with feces, especially since it was Friday afternoon, right before the weekend. Now, I'm left contemplating whether I should proceed with the antibiotics or if this diagnosis might be a result of the sample’s possible contamination.
Answers (1)
9/12/2025, 9:50:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel uncertain about starting antibiotics, especially if you're asymptomatic following your urinalysis. Let's break down the situation regarding your test results and the suggestion to take antibiotics for a urinary tract infection (UTI).
Main Points:
- Understanding the Urinalysis Results: Sometimes, urine samples can be affected by contamination, particularly if you were rushing and felt the need to use the bathroom. If there was potential contamination, it could influence the test results.
- Asymptomatic UTIs: Many medical professionals recommend treatment for UTIs even if you don't have symptoms, especially if your urinalysis showed specific markers indicating an infection.
- Concerns About Antibiotic Use: Taking antibiotics without evident symptoms can raise concerns about antibiotic resistance and side effects.
Explanation:
When your doctor diagnosed a UTI based on the urinalysis, they likely found bacteria or other indicators of infection, which often leads them to prescribe antibiotics for treatment, especially if there are high risks associated with untreated infections. However, the context of your sample collection—specifically, the urgency you felt—could mean that the results are not entirely reliable.
Next Steps:
- Reassessment of Symptoms: Gauge any changes over the next couple of days. If you remain completely symptom-free (no burning sensation, increased frequency of urination, or pain), note that.
- Holding Off on Antibiotics: Consider postponing taking the antibiotics for now to see if you remain asymptomatic, discussing with your healthcare provider about your hesitance regarding the contamination of the urine sample.
- Requesting a Follow-Up Test: If you're comfortable, request a repeat urinalysis to confirm the infection, especially if you have doubts about the initial results. This can help clarify if treatment is necessary.
- Consulting Again on Monday: If you're still unsure, or if any symptoms do develop, you can call your doctor or the medical office on Monday for further advice, addressing your concerns about the sample's potential contamination.
It's important to prioritize your health, and seeking clarification or a second opinion is always a valid approach. You're actively participating in your healthcare, which is vital for making informed decisions. Let me know if you need further clarification!
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