Everything To Know About Leukocytes in Urine

Taking care of the body has always topped the priority list. Looking after your eating habits, exercising daily, and following a good lifestyle have always helped in living happily and healthy. However, there are some times when your body faces some unwanted diseases and infections. To deal with them Leukocytes or white blood cells work around the clock to deal with these deadly invaders. No wonder your body has its own way of indicating internal issues or health problems. If leukocytes are present or found in urine, then there is a possibility of an infection or inflammation in the urinary system. Thus, it is essential to learn about leukocytes in urine and how it can hamper your health.

Understanding Leukocytes

Leukocytes as blood cells are synthesized in the bone marrow along with the lymphatic system. They are beneficial in defending the body from any sort of infection, illness, or other foreign invaders. As per pathologists, leukocytes are of different types, such as:

Basophils

They are known to release histamine along with other chemicals during the response to any allergy.

Monocytes

They are considered large leukocytes which help during an inflammatory response. Plus, monocytes can easily develop into dendritic cells.

Neutrophils

This is a common type of leukocyte. Neutrophils respond first and fight off any fungal infections or bacterial infections.

Eosinophils

Eosinophils are behind the body’s response to any kind of allergic reactions and even parasitic infections.

Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes are behind the immune response of the body which also involves antibody production. Moreover, there are two other types of lymphocytes: T lymphocytes which are considered natural killer cells, and B lymphocytes which are considered to produce antibodies to fight off any infection. Not many people know apart from being present in the bloodstream, leukocytes are also present in the bodily fluids along with urine.

What are the reasons behind leukocytes in urine?

There are many factors that contribute to the presence of leukocytes in urine. The below-mentioned are a few leukocytes in urine causes:

Everything To Know About Leukocytes in Urine | Khosla Stone Kidney & Surgical Centre

Urinary tract infection or UTI

The most common cause of getting leukocytes in urine is a urinary tract infection. The reason behind getting UTIs could be bacteria, viruses, and even fungi. This issue can even hamper the urinary tract parts such as the bladder, kidneys, etc.

Interstitial cystitis

This can cause bladder pressure, discomfort, along with a certain pain. Further, result in leukocytes in urine.

Kidney infections or pyelonephritis

The UTI can severely affect the kidneys. Thus, it can even indicate that you are facing the presence of leukocytes.

Kidney stones

The presence of kidney stones can indicate that there is inflammation in the body and even leukocytes in urine.

Sexually transmitted infections or STIs

Sexually transmitted diseases like chlamydia, etc. can lead to serious inflammation. This happens in the urinary tract. This can further result in leukocytes in urine.

Systemic conditions

Not many people are aware but systematic medical conditions like genitourinary cancer, holding urine for a longer period, and blood diseases can lead to leukocytes in urine.

Various medications

One of the other leukocytes in urine causes is the use of medications like antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs can cause a side effect which is leukocytes in the urine.

What are the symptoms of leukocytes in urine?

The appearance of leukocytes in urine can lead to different symptoms. Here are some of the common leukocytes in urine symptoms:

Frequent urination
Chills
Fever
Nausea and vomiting
Burning sensation or pain while urinating
Strong or uneven urine smell
Cloudy or uneven color of urine
Back pain
Pain in the lower abdomen or discomfort

It can be worrisome but leukocytes in urine symptoms can be tackled with the right treatment.

What are the possible leukocytes in urine treatments?

The underlying cause of leukocytes in urine while defining its treatment. However, here are some leukocytes in urine treatment that can be opted for better health:

Antibiotics

If you are facing leukocytes due to any bacterial infection like UTI then your opted doctor will suggest an antibiotic course to get rid of the infection.

Medication for chronic conditions

If you are facing leukocytes because of any chronic condition like interstitial cystitis then the doctor will suggest medicines that will help in managing any underlying cause.

Good lifestyle changes

There are some situations where a minor lifestyle modification is required. You need to enhance your fluid intake, urinate at the right time, follow an active routine, etc. Overall, this can help in diminishing the issue of leukocytes in urine.

Surgery

There are some cases when the doctors suggest opting for surgery to get to the underlying issue. This can help in getting relief from leukocytes in urine.

Antifungal medications

If there is any fungal infection which is leading to leukocytes in urine, then the doctors will suggest some antifungal medications.

Conclusion

Leukocytes in urine should not be taken lightly. It is a serious health concern that can even lead to other health issues such as UTIs, chronic conditions, and much more. This is the reason to understand the causes, symptoms, underlying issues, and even the right treatments for it for a healthy life. Individuals can opt for the right doctor for a suitable treatment and maintain urinary tract health. This will sort your ways and lead a hassle-free life.

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Rajesh Khosla

Senior Urologist & Laser Surgeon with over 20+ years of clinical excellence in RIRS, HoLEP, Mini-PCNL, and Laparoscopic Surgeries at Khosla Stone Kidney & Surgical Centre, Ludhiana.

Everything To Know About Leukocytes in Urine