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What Can You Do About Mucus In The Urine?
The body produces mucus to lubricate and protect certain parts of the body, including the urinary tract. Some mucus in the urine is normal, but an increase may be a sign of an underlying condition that needs medical attention.
However, too much mucus or mucus that has changed in color or consistency can signify an underlying condition that may need addressing.
Read on to learn more about mucus in the urine and when to see a doctor.
Mucus may be present in the urine for many reasons, including those below.
Normal dischargeAs the mucus moves through the urinary tract, it flushes out germs that may otherwise cause infection.
Mucus in the urine is thin and fluid-like, and it can vary in quantity. It is typically clear, white, or off-white. If a person notices large amounts of mucus or mucus that changes color, they might have an infection or another health issue.
Sometimes, people may think that there is more mucus in their urine when this mucus is actually coming from the vagina.
Cervical mucus, which leaves the body as discharge, varies in color, thickness, and quantity at different stages of the menstrual cycle, as well as during pregnancy.
Urinary tract infection (UTI)UTIs are among the most common types of infection that doctors treat every year. Although anyone can get a UTI, they are much more common among females. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, about 40–60% of females will experience at least one UTI in their lifetime.
The symptoms of a UTI include:
STIs are common, with an estimated 20 million new infections occurring every year in the United States. People aged 15–24 years are most at risk.
Both chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause excess mucus in the urine. This symptom is particularly noticeable in males.
Other symptoms of these STIs include:
Chlamydia:
Gonorrhea:
IBS is a functional digestive disorder, which means that the digestive tract does not function normally despite showing no signs of damage or inflammation. IBS is the most common functional gastrointestinal disorder, affecting 10–15% of people worldwide.
One possible symptom of IBS is mucus in the digestive tract. This mucus is present in the large intestine, or colon, but after leaving the body through the anus, it may mix with urine in the toilet bowl and lead people to think that the mucus is in their urine.
Other common IBS symptoms include:
Ulcerative colitis (UC)UC is a form of inflammatory bowel disease.
To combat damage to the colon, the body may produce excess mucus, which passes from the body in the stool. Again, it can mix with urine in the toilet, giving the impression that there is too much mucus in the urine.
Additional symptoms of UC include:
Kidney stones are hard deposits that form inside the kidneys and comprise various minerals and salts. The lifetime risk of getting kidney stones is 11% for males and 9% for females.
Stones that remain in the kidneys do not cause symptoms. However, if they move into the urinary tract, they can cause increased mucus, as well as:
In rare cases, mucus in the urine may be a sign of bladder cancer. However, it is unlikely to be the first symptom of the condition. Symptoms that usually present first include:
It is more likely that mucus in the urine is related to an infection, a digestive condition, or another cause.
Despite this, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible to rule out severe causes such as bladder cancer.
Anyone who experiences excessive amounts of mucus in the urine or a general increase in mucus production should speak with a doctor.
Although it is common to have some mucus in the urine, too much might suggest an underlying condition that requires medical treatment.
To test for mucus in the urine, a doctor may perform a urinalysis, which involves checking a urine sample under a microscope. The procedure is straightforward and noninvasive, and a person will just need to provide a container of urine.
Many doctors will carry out a urinalysis as part of a routine checkup. They may also carry out this test if they suspect that an individual has a UTI.
The underlying cause of excessive or abnormal mucus in the urine will determine the treatment options.
UTIsDoctors will prescribe antibiotics for UTIs that are due to a bacterial infection. It is also important to drink lots of water to flush the bacteria from the system.
People who experience recurrent UTIs may need a 6-month or longer course of low dose antibiotics to prevent a new UTI from developing. If a person develops a UTI following sexual activity, they will typically require a single antibiotic dose.
STIsDoctors will treat both gonorrhea and chlamydia with prescription antibiotics, as no home remedies or over-the-counter (OTC) treatments have proven effective for STIs. Sexual partners will also require treatment for the STI.
A person can reduce their risk of future STIs by always using barrier protection, such as a condom, during sexual activity.
IBSAs IBS is a chronic condition, there is no cure. However, several treatments are available to help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
Medications include:
Certain dietary and lifestyle adjustments may also help, such as:
As with IBS, there is no cure for UC, although there are medicines that may alleviate the symptoms. Such medications include:
Severe cases of UC may require surgery to remove the colon and rectum.
Kidney stonesSmaller kidney stones may not require any treatment, as they can pass from the body through the urine. Drinking more water can aid this process. The symptoms will resolve once the stone has left the body.
Doctors may treat larger stones with extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy — a procedure that breaks up the kidney stone into smaller pieces so that the body can pass them more easily.
Surgery may be necessary to remove very large kidney stones.
As mucus is part of a healthy urinary system, moderate amounts are not a cause for concern. However, excessive amounts of mucus in the urine will need investigating so that a doctor can determine the underlying cause.
Most causes of mucus in the urine are easily treatable with medication, dietary changes, or other appropriate interventions.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Symptoms, Causes, And Remedies
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) happen when microbes overcome the body's defenses in the urinary system. They can cause discomfort and urination problems, but several treatments may resolve them. Bacteria most commonly cause UTIs.
UTIs are one of the most common types of outpatient infections in the United States, leading to more than 8.1 million visits to the doctor every year.
The urinary tract consists of the upper and lower urinary tract. The kidneys and ureters make up the upper urinary tract, and the urethra and bladder make up the lower urinary tract.
UTIs have different names depending on where they occur. For example:
A UTI is a bacterial infection of the urinary tract that can affect:
A UTI is classified as "simple" or "complicated." Simple UTIs will usually only affect the bladder. Complicated UTIs describe resistant infections that require stronger medications, or those that affect the kidneys.
According to 2022 research, groups at a higher risk of complicated UTIs include:
Additionally, blockages and problems with kidney function can increase a person's risk of developing a complicated UTI.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) writes that bladder infections — simple UTIs — are the most common type.
Overall, females are more likely to develop a UTI than males, with 40–60% of females developing an infection at least once in their life and 10% of females developing a UTI once a year. Females are at a higher risk than males because their urethra is shorter, which makes it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder.
In adultsLower UTIs affect the bladder or urethra and can cause:
Upper UTIs affect the kidneys and ureters. As well as the symptoms above, they can cause:
In malesMales and females share the same symptoms. However, 2021 research suggests that males had a higher chance of experiencing symptoms that affect the lower urinary tract.
It is worth noting that this study involved 1,256 people from a single community in Japan, so the findings may not apply to other populations.
In childrenAdditional symptoms in children include:
Additional symptoms of UTIs in older adults or those with a urinary catheter include:
The Urology Care Foundation notes that different bacteria live on the skin or around the rectum and vagina. When the bacteria enter the urethra, they can travel to the bladder.
According to the NIDDK, the body usually flushes out the bacteria before they reach a person's bladder. However, in some cases, the body is unable to do so, resulting in a UTI.
UTIs most commonly occur due to the following bacteria:
People of any age and sex can develop a UTI. However, some people are more at risk than others.
The following factors can increase the likelihood of developing a UTI:
The NIDDK notes that females are more likely to develop UTIs than males. This is because females have a shorter urethra, meaning the bacteria have less distance to travel to the bladder.
Additionally, the urethra is closer to the rectum, where the UTI-causing bacteria are present.
Going through menopause and using birth control methods, such as diaphragms or spermicide, can also increase the chance of developing a UTI.
Is pregnancy a risk factor for a UTI?According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, pregnant people have a higher risk of UTIs than other people.
Changes in the body during pregnancy can cause changes in the urinary tract.
Learn more about UTIs in pregnancy here.
In malesMales share the same risk factors for developing a UTI. However, having an enlarged prostate is a male-specific risk factor.
An enlarged prostate can block or obstruct the usual flow of urine.
In some cases, lower UTIs can lead to pyelonephritis. This is a sudden and severe kidney infection.
Symptoms include:
If a person suspects they have a kidney infection, they should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Recurrent or long-lasting kidney infections can cause permanent damage. Some sudden kidney infections can be life threatening, particularly if bacteria enter the bloodstream in a condition known as septicemia.
They can also increase the risk of pregnant people delivering infants prematurely or with low birth weight.
There are several measures that an individual can take to reduce the risk of developing a UTI, including:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests taking showers instead of baths and avoiding douching.
Females should also wipe from the front to the back to help avoid spreading the germs from the rectum to the vagina. In addition, if a person experiences frequent or recurring UTIs, they should talk with a doctor about switching birth control methods if they use it.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists mentions that cranberry pills and unsweetened cranberry juice may help decrease the chance of contracting UTIs. However, research is ongoing.
Individuals should contact a doctor if they develop UTI symptoms, especially if they have developed symptoms of a potential kidney infection.
A doctor will usually diagnose a UTI after asking about a person's symptoms and testing a urine sample to assess the presence of white blood cells, red blood cells, and bacteria.
In some cases, a doctor may culture the urine to identify the type of bacteria causing the infection.
If someone has recurrent UTIs, a doctor may request further diagnostic testing to determine if anatomical or functional issues are the cause. Such tests may include:
A healthcare professional can prescribe antibiotics to treat UTIs, regardless of a person's sex.
The type of medication and length of treatment will depend on a person's symptoms and medical history.
People should always complete the full course of treatment to make sure that the infection is fully clear and reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance. UTI symptoms can disappear before the infection has completely gone.
To cure a UTI that has occurred due to problems within the urinary system, a healthcare professional will need to diagnose the underlying issue.
If the person is seriously ill, they may need to be admitted to a hospital to ensure they consume sufficient fluids and receive the correct medication.
People may also need to go to the hospital if they are:
To help treat and prevent recurrent UTI infections, a healthcare professional may:
There are several suggested remedies that people with a UTI can try at home. These include:
A 2021 study found that other successful home remedies to help stop recurrent UTIs included:
A person should contact a doctor if they develop symptoms of a UTI. Without treatment, UTIs can lead to a sudden and severe kidney infection which can be life threatening.
The NIDDK advises people to seek care immediately if they develop:
Below are answers to the top frequently asked questions about urinary tract infections.
What are 3 symptoms of a UTI?Although symptoms can differ from person to person, the following three symptoms may indicate a person has a UTI:
Generally, a person will be able to tell they have a UTI if they have any of the following symptoms:
If a person develops these symptoms, they should seek medical advice from a healthcare professional who will be able to confirm if they have a UTI.
How do you get rid of a UTI fast?A person should always see a doctor if they develop symptoms of a UTI, as they can progress into a kidney infection.
Some ways a person can get rid of a UTI quickly include the following actions:
However, some people need to see a doctor to relieve their symptoms.
Is a UTI an STD?Whilst it is possible to get a UTI after sex, and being sexually active can increase the likelihood of developing one, a UTI is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Why do I keep getting urinary tract infections?Risk factors for recurrent urinary tract infections include:
A person should speak with a doctor if they get recurrent UTIs.
A UTI is an infection of the urinary tract. The urethra and bladder make up the lower urinary tract, and the upper urinary tract consists of the kidneys and ureters.
The main symptoms include a burning sensation during urination and a frequent and intense urge to urinate. The symptoms are the same for both males and females. However, males are more likely to experience the sensation that they have not finished urinating and urine dribbling from the penis after urination.
UTIs occur due to bacteria present on the skin and around the rectum and vagina. However, some risk factors are female- or male-specific.
Treatment includes antibiotics, and a person should drink plenty of fluids.
If an individual notices symptoms of a UTI, they should contact a healthcare professional. Without treatment, a kidney infection can occur.
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When Is Mucus In Urine Normal And Abnormal?
Medically reviewed by Matthew Wosnitzer, MD
Urinary mucus is constantly produced by mucous membrane cells in the urinary tract to flush out bacteria that might cause infection. Having small amounts of mucus in urine is normal and healthy. If you notice "stringy" material after urination or urine that is sticky, it's possible that you're experiencing an abnormal increase of mucus caused by a number of factors.
These include a urinary tract infection (UTI), sexually transmitted infections (STIs), kidney stones, or another health issue.
Read on to learn what you need to know about the normal and abnormal causes of mucus in urine for women and men, when to get a urinalysis (urine test) to see if you have too much mucus in your urine, how cervical mucus can throw off a urinary mucus diagnosis, and treatment options.
Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images
Causes of Mucus in UrineThe body produces more mucus as a first line of defense when it needs to trap unwanted allergens, flush away bacteria, or get rid of a virus. The gelatinous consistency of mucus creates a vehicle for sweeping trapped infectious material or foreign particles out of the body.
In the same way your body constantly produces nasal mucus to keep your nose and respiratory tract healthy, it also perpetually produces mucus in the urethra, a part of the urinary tract that drains urine from the bladder, to keep these areas healthy.
It's completely healthy and normal for small amounts of this urethral mucus to be present in urine; large amounts aren't normal.
Abnormally excessive mucus in urine may be caused by the following:
In WomenPregnancy, menstruation, ovulation, and birth control pills can all increase the thickness of urinary mucus in women, which makes it easier to see. It's also not uncommon for women to confuse cervical mucus coming from the vagina for urinary mucus.
UTIs, also called bladder infections, can create abnormal amounts of mucus in urine for both women and men. However, women get UTIs about 30 times more frequently than men. One reason women get more urinary tract infections is because their urethra is shorter, which makes it easier for bacteria to make its way into the bladder and cause infection.
Bacterial vaginosis (when bacteria in the vagina becomes imbalanced) and vaginal yeast infections (a fungal infection in the vagina) can also cause excess mucus production that mixes with urine.
In MenSexually transmitted infections can cause excessive urinary mucus in both women and men. However, excess mucus in urine from STIs like gonorrhea or chlamydia is often more easily perceived when men pee.
Inflammation of the prostate gland (prostatitis) can cause urethral discharge that makes urine look cloudy, and it may contain mucus.
Kidney stones can also cause excess mucus in urine. Although women and men can both get kidney stones, men are slightly more likely to experience kidney stone disease (KSD).
Retrograde ejaculation pushes semen into the bladder instead of exiting from the penis during a man's orgasm. Because semen that's trapped in the bladder can mix with urine, the sticky discharge when peeing for the first time after sex can be mistaken for an problem with the urine.
Signs of Mucus in UrineNormal mucus in urine is a clear, gelatinous fluid that's usually thin and odorless. It's not abnormal, though, to see some mucus threads in your pee that have a slightly off-white color or cloudiness.
Large amounts of mucus, however, may indicate an infection of the urinary tract, the reproductive tract, or the gastrointestinal tract. See your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.
When to See a Healthcare ProviderSee a healthcare provider if there's an abnormal amount of mucus threads in your urine or if your urine seems thicker and stickier than usual, have a yellowish-green color, or give off a foul odor.
What Is a Urinalysis?A urinalysis is a test of the urine. Urinalysis is the gold standard for determining if someone has excessive mucus in their urine. This easy-to-do test, which only requires a urine sample, is usually administered in a medical setting. If initial results show abnormalities, more testing is usually needed to determine the underlying cause of unusual mucus production.
How to Treat Unusual Mucus in UrineAntibiotics are used to treat unusual mucus in urine that's caused by a bacterial infection in the urinary tract. If abnormal urinary mucus is caused by a sexually transmitted infection, successful treatment of the STI will clear up the excess mucus. Similarly, if excess urinary mucus is caused by kidney stones, treating this condition should return mucus production to normal.
Complications of Untreated Symptoms and Delayed TestingExcess mucus in urine is often a warning sign of an underlying condition that should be treated promptly. If you're experiencing abnormal amounts of urinary mucus, don't delay speaking to a healthcare provider and getting a urinalysis. Complications of untreated symptoms could include a urinary tract infection starting in the bladder and spreading to the kidneys, causing acute pyelonephritis (kidney infection).
SummaryHaving small amounts of mucus in the urine is not abnormal. Mucus keeps your urinary tract healthy. It helps flush away bacteria that can cause bladder infections. Having small amounts of clear or slightly cloudy mucus threads in your urine is normal.
Seeing greenish-yellow mucus or an abundance of cloudy threads in the toilet bowl or wall urinal after peeing may be a sign of a urinary tract infection. Other causes like sexually transmitted infections and kidney stones can also create excessive urinary mucus. Speak to a healthcare provider if you notice abnormal amounts of mucus in your urine or if it's discolored, looks stickier than usual, or smells bad.
Read the original article on Verywell Health.
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