Re: Cloudy Urine

Posted By HFHS M.D.-AK on September 16, 1998 at 12:17:01:

In Reply to: Cloudy Urine posted by Christine on September 02, 1998 at 17:37:02:






Over the past month, I have noticed on a few occasions (2 or 3 times) that my urine is cloudy looking.  Sometimes it is very light yellow and cloudy or a "normal" yellow and cloudy.   Maybe "cloudy" isn't even the right word--it's just not as clear as usual. This has happened infrequently but I find it worrisome.  I am asymptomatic for an infection--no urgency, frequency, or burning.  What could cause this.  Today I noticed it occurred a few hours after lunch.  I did eat at a restaurant for lunch that I think used a high sodium content in their food. (My clothing is making a lot of "marks" on me since eating there--water retention!!)  Also, I have taken some Maalox today.  Can food or Maalox cause this?
Christine



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Dear Christine,
If you are asymptomatic then you probably do not have an infection.  If you were very concerned, you could have an initial screening test done called a urinalysis.  This would indicate if you had an infection or any protein in the urine.
The only other idea I have is that urine becomes very alkalotic after eating.  This can cause phosphates in the urine to precipitate and often give the urine a thickend particulate consistency.  You are probably normal but you may want to consult you family doctor to make sure.
This information is provided for general medical educational purposes only.  Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition.  More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its satellites (1 800 653-6568).
Sincerely,
HFHS M.D.-AK
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