The kidneys are a vital part of the human body’s built-in waste management system. They filter bodily fluids and excrete the waste into urine. The digestive system is filled with different types of flora that naturally occur and help break down different elements in the body. One such bacterium is lactobacillus. When it grows wild, it may be present in urine which is linked to more serious infections and health problems.

What Does Lactobacillus in Urine Mean?

First, everyone should understand that although digestive flora is a natural part of the body, too much or too little can be a problem. Some low-grade problems people experience when their internal bacteria are not quite right are gas, bloating, fatigue, and acid reflux. The rod shaped bacterium known as lactobacillus is most often a problem for those who are already immune compromised. Lactobacillus in urine refers to an influx of the bacteria which causes painful urinary tract infections. When left untreated, this bacterium can also cause blood and organ infections.

Normal Function of Lactobacilli

Under normal circumstances, this bacterium is important because it produces vitamin K. This vitamin is commonly known as lactase – the essential digestive enzyme for breaking down dairy products. Individuals who do not produce enough of this are often deemed lactose intolerant. Lactobacillus also plays a role in producing acidophillin and acidolin which are anti-microbial substances responsible for shutting down the growth of bad gut bacteria.

Lactobacillus is generally abundant in the female vaginal system. It provides a number of benefits such as helping store glucose, aiding in oestrogen production, and warding off bacteria such as E.Coli and Gardnerella. Additionally, it is crucial in warding off yeast infections.

Lactobacillus Overgrowth Syndrome (Cytolytic Vaginosis)

While low levels of lactobacillus in urine are truly beneficial to the body, high levels are a serious issue. Women who experience high levels of this bacterium may notice dry, itchy vaginal walls, painful urination, and thick vaginal discharge that may also be dry and flakey. All of these symptoms are often classified as a yeast infection – although it is truly Cytolytic Vaginosis. Another cause of high yeast levels is poor blood sugar regulation in women who are diabetic. The additional glucose in the vagina feeds the lactobacillus bacteria and helps it grow.

Do I Have A Lactobacillus Infection?

Before rushing to the doctor, many women want to figure out if they actually have a lactobacillus infection or if they are experiencing something more common like a yeast or urinary tract infection. All three health issues carry similar symptoms which is why it is always important to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis so you do not inadvertently worsen your condition. Diagnosis of the disorder will require the following steps.

• Urinalysis: The urinalysis is an analysis of your urine based on color, clarity, and pH. Physicians will also perform other lab tests to check for glucose, creatinine, and anything suspicious. This is usually the first thing that they do and can give your doctors a pretty good idea as to what is going on in your body and how it could affect you as time goes on.
• Microscopy: Under a microscope, doctors will also look for crystal stains in urine. The crystal stains usually look like a purple crystal cushion. If this is prominent, then it will likely be identified as the bacteria lactobacilli and it will need to be treated as thus.
• Culture: Culture samples can be used for different parts of the diagnosis process. For this diagnosis, a small amount of urine will be left to incubate on growth plates to see if it grows into the infection. It will also be tested on a chromatography scale and undergo other testing in the lab.
• Significant Bacteriuria: Lactobacillius in urine at a heightened level must be demonstrated through various tests in order to properly diagnose this disorder. The appropriate range for significance is 100,000 bacteria/mL of urine. Any less and your doctors may perform other tests in order to see if there are other issues that are occurring in your body.
• Antimicrobial Assays: Lastly, physicians will test to make sure that the bacteria respond to a particular antibiotic through the antimicrobial assays. This helps them identify whether or not it has become resistant to certain antibiotics.

Treatments for the Infection of Lactobacillus in Urine

 There are some treatment options for lactobacillus infection which a physician will recommend based on his/her findings in the laboratory.

1. Antibiotics

The traditional option for treating this disorder is with antibiotics. Penicillin is the most common antibiotic which is prescribed today. Individuals who have advanced cases of lactobacillus overgrowth may need to receive the medication intravenously for faster results. However, most will receive an oral prescription than can be taken daily for 5-7 days. Individuals who are allergic to penicillin or its derivative medications may be prescribed a different antibiotic.

2. Antipyretics

In severe cases, a fever may be present. This must be addressed immediately as high fever is dangerous to any individual of any age. Antipyretics are one type of drug that is often administered in a hospital to help control the fever. Aspirin, Ibuprofen, and Acetaminophen help decrease fever and can be picked up at any grocery store, drug store, or even a gas station for relief in as little as 30 minutes.

3. Intravenous Fluid Therapy

One of the major concerns around lactobacillus overgrowth is that it may infect the blood stream of those who are immune compromised. Individuals who fall into this category may receive intravenous therapy to help increase blood volume and pressure, and fight off the infection.

4. Surgery

In the occurrence of an infection that swells in one area, surgical drainage may be necessary. Lactobacillus is likely to cause pockets of infection in the oral cavity and stomach areas. Surgical drainage can be used to remove the debris and properly treat the bacteria.