TeenHealthFX - Answers

Pee & Urine Issues - Pain, Bed-Wetting, Amount & Frequency / Question
Published: February 23, 2004

Dear TeenHealthFX,

Lately I have been experiencing a slight increase in frequency of urination, particularly today. I'm a male, 16 Y.O., and I've gone to the urologist for this. The problem started about two months ago, went to the doctor (not-urologist), got it checked out (had a UA), it came back negative. Pretty much that's how it was, with just frequency. I got an appointment scheduled with my urologist (it took a month to actually get in to see him), and for about the next three weeks my frequency went back to normal and was until a couple days after the Urologist appointment. When I went there, they took another UA and felt around my abdomen for any pains. The doctor basically said that if the problems start back up again (the frequency), I should go back and see them to get an ultrasound. I've always been a very stressed out person and this past week has been particularly stressful. I'm not sure if the urinary frequency is because the doctor told me about it (thus I looked out for it and worried about it), or not. I've been drinking a fair amount of fluids, but nothing extreme. What should I do? I really don't want to go back to the doctor (As I don't like hospitals in general), and I feel that this is probably due to stress.

Signed: Pee'n In Tx

Dear Pee'n In Tx,

It is great that you have already seen a physician for your problem, but TeenHealthFX is still concerned about you, because you are still experiencing symptoms that you feel are not normal. Even though you feel that stress may be the cause and visiting the doctor is not high on your list of favorite activities, it is our recommendation that you speak to your parents about making another appointment for you.

While sometimes learning about symptoms makes us more aware of them and causes us to overanalyze, it is often good to get them checked out. You could also keep a journal of symptoms so you can have documented facts to show the doctor. Include in your journal:

Number of ounces of liquids consumed
Number of trips to the bathroom
What type of beverages you are drinking
Whether you feel a sense or urgency when you have to urinate
If your bladder feels like it gets emptied, or feels like it stays full even after you have gone to the bathroom.

Again, it is very important to have this checked out, as serious complications can occur if problems with the urinary tract and kidneys are not taken care of. You mention that an ultrasound may be preformed. This diagnostic test may be performed by placing a gel on your abdomen and running a wand that is attached to a machine over this area. This will help to determine if there are any structural issues with the urinary tract. This test also may include an injection of dye which can be used to determine if there are any functional problems with the way the urinary system is working. Tests and trips to the doctor can be made less stressful by finding a physician who keeps you informed about what is going on, and bringing support people like parents or others with you to help you.

FX is also concerned about your stress level and how you describe yourself as a "very stressed out person." In addition to taking care of the urine issues, you can also discuss your "stress situation" with your doctor. He/she may recommend that you see a therapist who may help you to identify what makes you stressed, and how you can better deal with stresses that come up in daily life.

Lastly, know that you are not alone with either of your issues. Check out the many questions in the category Pee & Urine Issues - Pain, Bed-Wetting, Amount & Frequency and do a search of FX using the keyword "stress" to learn about other teens who have similar concerns.

Signed: TeenHealthFX