I'm having this issue where my stool has undigested food in it for about a month now, and I'm also experiencing a burning feeling when I pee. My urine culture test showed E. Coli, but apparently, the colony count is low. Are these two problems connected? Could the UTI be causing the undigested food situation, or are they unrelated? I'm a bit concerned and would appreciate your thoughts on this.

Dr Dhankecha Dineshbhai

General Practitioner

• MBBS
• 6+ Yrs

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Possible Causes_

1. Musculoskeletal issues: Strained or pulled muscles in the abdominal or intercostal areas, especially if you've recently increased gym intensity.
2. Gastrointestinal issues: Gallbladder problems, liver issues, or gastrointestinal inflammation (e.g., gastritis) could cause discomfort under the right rib.
3. Other possible causes: Pneumonia, pleurisy, or costochondritis (inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone) might also contribute to this discomfort.

Whom to Consult

1. Primary Care Physician (PCP):
   • Schedule an appointment with your PCP to discuss your symptoms and medical history.
   • They'll evaluate your overall health and refer you to a specialist if needed.
2. Gastroenterologist:
   • If your PCP suspects a gastrointestinal issue, they might refer you to a gastroenterologist for further evaluation.
3. Orthopedic Specialist or Sports Medicine Doctor:
   • If your PCP believes the discomfort is related to a musculoskeletal issue, they might recommend consulting an orthopedic specialist or sports medicine doctor.

Before Consulting a Doctor

1. Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of when the discomfort occurs, how long it lasts, and any factors that relieve or exacerbate it.
2. Gym activities: Inform your doctor about your gym routine, including any recent changes or intense workouts.

Answered 04/07/2025