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Urology  (Expert Forum)
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233190?1193370436
Red sand in urine, enlarged testicle, and more
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
Kevin Pho, MD Boston - MA
Questions in the Urology forum are answered by Dr. Stephen Liroff, affiliated with the Henry Ford Hospital. Topics covered include benign prostate disease, penis curvature, cystisis, kidney stones, pediatric urology, prostate, sexual dysfunction, urinary tract infections (UTI), and urological cancers.

Red sand in urine, enlarged testicle, and more

by kayaker43, Apr 06, 2005 12:00AM
I'm 48 and very fit. I had a hernia operation at Shouldice in the early 80's and my mother and grandmother died of polycystic kidney disease. I have avoided doctors for years due to poor health coverage and little money but need to adress some issues.



When camping for long periods, I sometimes urinate into a milk jug to avoid finding a bathrooom. I noticed a reddish brown sand like sediment in the bottom of the jug. Other general observations are that I seem to urinate more than others? Maybe 8-10 times per day and can fill a gallon jug in two days. Is this an early sign of kidney problems



My left testicle is much larger and seems to have two soft masses inside roughly equal size the second mass above the testicle isn't painful or hard but feels numb. I heard these can be harmless cysts and its been there for a very long time. The right testicle seems to have shrunk or lost its sperm after the hernia operation.



Finally sexually active again after a many years, my sperm volume seems quite low and erections are much harder to get and keep even though the desire is there. Nocturnal erections can dissapear for weeks at a time. Is this more than just aging?

by Kevin Pho, MD, Apr 09, 2005 12:00AM
Red sediment can be a sign of kidney problems.  Specifically, blood in the urine can be indicative of bladder, prostate, or kidney disease.



I would consider sending the urine off for an analysis to determine if in fact that is blood.  Blood tests can be considered to evaluate a metabolic panel (which can look at sugar and kidney function).  Imaging with an ultrasound would be part of the workup as well.



If the kidney is ok, I would consider evaluation of the bladder and the lower urinary tract.  A cystoscopy can be considered for further evaluation.



Regarding the scrotal masses, you can consider an ultrasound for further evaluation.



These options can be discussed with your personal physician.



Followup with your personal physician is essential.



This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.



Kevin, M.D.

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