[31F] Experiencing frequent urination, abdominal swelling, and dark urine

What might be happening

Based on the information you provided, the most likely diagnosis is a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs are common infections that happen when bacteria, often from the skin or rectum, enter the urethra, and infect the urinary tract. The symptoms you described, such as a sudden urge to urinate, dark yellow and foul-smelling urine, and discomfort at the end of urination, are common signs of a UTI.

• Treatment for UTIs typically involves antibiotics to clear the infection. Your doctor may also prescribe a medication to ease the burning sensation during urination.

Your abdominal bloating and weight gain could be related to the UTI if the infection has spread to your kidneys (a condition known as pyelonephritis), but it could also be due to other conditions such as:

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): a common disorder that affects the large intestine and can cause bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits.

  • Treatment for IBS typically involves dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and managing stress.

• Endometriosis: a condition you already have, can sometimes cause bloating and changes in bowel habits.

  • Treatment for endometriosis often involves hormonal therapy, pain relievers, and in some cases, surgery.

What you can do

1. Drink plenty of water: This helps to dilute your urine and ensure that you'll urinate more frequently — allowing bacteria to be flushed from your urinary tract before an infection can begin.

2. Avoid drinks that may irritate your bladder: Avoid coffee, alcohol, and soft drinks containing citrus juices and caffeine until your infection has cleared. They can irritate your bladder and tend to aggravate your frequent or urgent need to urinate.

3. Use a heating pad: Apply a warm, but not hot, heating pad to your abdomen to minimize bladder pressure or discomfort.

However, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. UTIs usually require treatment with antibiotics, and it's important to get a proper diagnosis.

What you should look out for

If you develop any of the following symptoms, seek medical help immediately:

• Blood in your urine
• High fever with shaking chills
• Nausea and vomiting
• Pain in the side, back or groin area
• Severe abdominal pain

Please remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm an AI and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.