How to Reduce Pus Cells in Urine: Treatment, Prevention & More

Pus cells in urine are medically known as pyuria. It indicates inflammation or infection in the urinary system and occurs mainly due to Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), kidney infections, and other underlying causes. The presence of these cells in the urine results from the body's immune response to infection. This requires immediate medical attention and appropriate interventions to avoid complications. 

Keep reading this article to know the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of pus cells in urine.   

Medical Conditions Leading to Pus Cells

Urinary tract infection is the most common cause of pus cells in urine. It develops due to the infection and multiplication of bacteria in the urinary tract. The majority of UTIs are localised in the lower urinary tract, which consists of the bladder and urethra. 

Women have a higher likelihood of developing UTIs because their urethra is shorter. Some of the common features of UTIs include:

• Caused by E. coli bacteria from the intestinal tract

• It affects any portion of the urinary system

• More common in women and the elderly

• Often occurs after sexual activity

• It may become recurrent in some cases

• Requires antibiotic treatment

• It can spread to kidneys if untreated

Pyelonephritis is also one of the causes of pus cells in urine. It is a kind of bacterial kidney infection that develops when bacteria move upwards from the lower urinary tract. This disease needs to be treated immediately. Otherwise, it can lead to permanent kidney damage. 

Key characteristics of this kidney infection include:

• Usually starts as a UTI that spreads upward

• Affects one or both kidneys

• It can cause severe complications

• Requires stronger antibiotics

• May need hospitalisation

• Often causes back pain and fever

• It can become chronic if untreated

• This may indicate underlying kidney problems

Symptoms Associated with Pus Cells in Urine

The body shows various signs when pus cells increase in urine. Recognising these symptoms leads to faster treatment:

• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine

• Burning sensation during urination

• Frequent urge to urinate

• Lower abdominal pain

• Changes in urine colour

• Discomfort in the lower back

• Fever in severe cases

• Blood in urine

Following are some of the benefits of early detection:

• Prevents spread of infection

• Reduces treatment duration

• Minimises kidney damage risk

• Lowers treatment costs

• Prevents chronic conditions

• Improves recovery chances

• Reduces antibiotic resistance risk

• Maintains kidney function

Diagnostic Tests and Procedures for Pus Cells in Urine

The primary diagnosis for detecting pus cells in urine is done by urinalysis. It examines the physical, chemical, and microscopic components of urine samples and helps determine infection severity. Key aspects of urinalysis include:

• Visual examination for colour, clarity, and concentration

• Dipstick test to check pH, protein, and other chemicals

• Microscopic analysis to count pus cells per high-power field

• Culture tests to identify specific bacteria

• Results are typically available within 24-48 hours

When urinalysis results are inconclusive or show severe infection, doctors may recommend additional tests. These procedures help identify underlying causes and determine appropriate treatment. Additional tests may include:

• Blood tests to check for infection markers

• Ultrasound and CT scan of kidneys and bladder

• Cystoscopy to examine bladder lining

• Kidney function tests

• Specialised bacterial culture tests

Treatment Approaches for Pus Cells in Urine

Treatments tend to vary according to medical professionals based on the cause of elevated pus cells. Generally, antibiotic medication is used to counteract bacterial infections and treatment duration normally lasts between 3-14 days. A few common medicines and treatment routines are mentioned below:

• Antibiotic medications like Amoxicillin, Ciprofloxacin and Nitrofurantoin. The prescription of this type of medication is based on the bacterial culture in the patient’s body.

• Anti-inflammatory medications are used as pain relievers if needed.  Mostly, Ibuprofen is used for pain and swelling.

• Doctors arrange follow-up care routines to provide maximum efficiency in treatment. This includes regular urinalysis to monitor improvement, adjustment of medications as needed and additional testing if symptoms persist.

Proper hydration decreases the pus cells in the urine. In this regard:

• Clear to light yellow urine indicates good hydration. 

• Adequate fluid intake helps flush out bad bacteria and toxins from the urinary system. 

• Consuming more water lowers the irritation of the urinary tract. 

• 8-10 glasses of water are needed for daily water intake. 

• More water should be consumed during hot weather or exercise.

Below are a few benefits of proper hydration:

• Flushes bacteria from the urinary tract.

• Reduces the concentration of irritants.

• Supports kidney function.

• Prevents bacterial growth.

Consult Top Urologist

Dr. Uddalak Chakraborty

Neurologist

8 Years • MBBS, MD(GENL.MED.),DM(NEUROLOGY)

Kolkata

MCR SUPER SPECIALITY POLY CLINIC & PATHOLOGY, Kolkata

₹1200

Consult OnlineAvailable in 9 minutes

₹1000

No Booking Fees

Visit DoctorAvailable at 11:35 AM

Dr. Lakshaman K

Neurologist

19 Years • MBBS,MS General Medicine,MCH Neurosurgery

Bengaluru

R V speciality Clinic, Bengaluru

₹600

No Booking Fees

Visit DoctorAvailable in 9 minutes

Dr. Joydeep Biswas

Neurologist

15 Years • MBBS, DNB General Medicine, DNB Neurology

Barasat

Diab-Eat-Ease, Barasat

82%

(25+ Patients)

₹900

Consult OnlineAvailable in 14 minutes

Dr. Manideep Malaka

Neurologist

7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Neurology)

Karimnagar

Care Hospital, Karimnagar

₹900

Consult OnlineAvailable at 11:30 AM

₹600

Visit DoctorAvailable in 24 minutes

Dr. Arunesh

Neurologist

14 Years • MD INTERNAL MEDICINE / FELLOWSHIP IN NEUROLOGY

Jabalpur

NEURO EXPERT CLINIC, Jabalpur

₹500

No Booking Fees

Visit DoctorAvailable in 39 minutes

Home Remedies and Natural Solutions for Pus Cells in Urine

A proper diet supports urinary tract health and helps reduce pus cells naturally. The right type of foods stimulates immune function to create an atmosphere that discourages bacterial growth. Here are some of them: 

• Fresh fruits and vegetables

• Foods with probiotics

• Foods with vitamin C

• Low-sodium options

Below are a few foods to avoid in this condition:

• Caffeinated beverages

• Alcohol

• Spicy foods

• Artificial sweeteners

• Acidic foods during active infection

Natural remedies can complement medical treatments to reduce pus cells. These solutions often provide additional support for the immune system and urinary tract health. Check out the recommended tips below:

• Increase vitamin C-rich foods

• Add probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt

• Consume cranberry juice or supplements

• Limit sugary and processed foods

• Try herbal teas (uva ursi, marshmallow root)

• Take D-mannose supplements as recommended

• Consume apple cider vinegar diluted in water

• Probiotic supplements help in this condition

• Vitamin C supplements are helpful as well

Note: Always consult healthcare providers before starting any natural remedies.

Prevention Strategies for Pus Cells in Urine

Good hygiene will prevent bacteria from entering the urinary tract, and with proper cleaning and care, discomfort can be significantly reduced. Below are a few essential practices to prevent the occurrence of infections and pus cell formation:

• Wiping front to back after toileting

• Regular cleaning of the genital area

• Wearing breathable cotton underwear

• Avoiding harsh soaps

• Regular bathroom breaks

Furthermore, simple lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce the risk of developing urinary tract problems. Here are a few recommended lifestyle changes:

• Staying well-hydrated

• Urinating after sexual activity

• Maintaining a healthy diet

• Regular exercise

• Stress management

Importance of Regular Medical Check-ups for Pus Cells in Urine

Regular medical check-ups help monitor urinary health and prevent complications. They allow early detection of potential problems before they become severe. Key benefits of regular medical check-ups include:

• Early detection of urinary tract infections

• Monitoring of pus cell levels

• Assessment of treatment effectiveness

• Prevention of chronic conditions

• Adjustment of medications as needed

Consistent monitoring helps prevent the recurrence of urinary infections and maintains optimal health. It enables healthcare providers to track patterns and adjust treatment plans. Below are a few effective monitoring routines that help with this condition:

• Regular urinalysis every 3-6 months

• Tracking of symptoms and triggers

• Documentation of treatment responses

• Assessment of lifestyle factors

• Evaluation of preventive measures' effectiveness

Conclusion

Managing pus cells in urine requires a multi-faceted approach. Medical treatment forms the foundation of care, regular check-ups help monitor progress and prevention through good hygiene is essential. Proper hydration supports urinary health, while natural remedies can complement medical treatments. 

Active lifestyle changes can prevent recurrence, and early intervention is key to preventing complications. Furthermore, if one plans to go for natural remedies, they should be in conjunction with the recommended medication.