Urine Test for Pus Cells: Normal Range, Causes, Symptoms and Prevention

When you go for a routine urine examination, one important thing doctors check is the presence of pus cells. The term urine examination pus cells simply refers to checking how many white blood cells (WBCs) are found in the urine sample. These cells appear when there is an infection or inflammation in the urinary tract or kidneys. A high number of pus cells can be an early sign of issues like urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder inflammation, or kidney infection. That is why understanding what pus cells mean and how they affect your health is very important.

Under normal conditions, urine contains very few or no pus cells. A small number is considered normal, but a raised count can indicate a problem that needs attention. A urine test showing pus cells is one of the first red flags, and knowing the symptoms and causes can help you act quickly and prevent complications.

What Are Pus Cells?

Pus cells are actually white blood cells (WBCs) that your body sends to fight infection and inflammation. When bacteria enter the urinary tract, or when the bladder or kidneys become irritated, white blood cells rush to the affected area. These then pass out through urine, showing up as "pus cells" in the report.

Pus cells alone do not confirm an infection. They simply indicate that your body is responding to something unusual. More tests may be required to identify the exact cause.

Normal Range of Pus Cells in Urine

Doctors use a microscope to count how many pus cells appear in a urine sample. The findings are written as pus cells per HPF (high power field).

Here is the normal and abnormal range:

If your report shows more than 10 pus cells, doctors usually recommend additional tests to find the exact reason.

Common Causes of High Pus Cells in Urine

A high pus cell count does not always mean something serious, but it should be checked on time. The most common causes are:

1. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI):- This is the most common reason for high pus cells. Bacteria enter the urinary tract and cause infection, leading to symptoms such as burning urine, frequent urination, and abdominal pain.
2. Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis):- When a UTI spreads upward to the kidneys, it becomes more serious. This causes fever, flank pain, chills, and a high WBC count in urine.
3. Bladder Infection (Cystitis):- Inflammation of the bladder leads to increased pus cells, pain, and discomfort.
4. Kidney Stones:- Stones rub against the urinary tract and cause irritation, bleeding, and inflammation, which can increase pus cells.
5. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs):- Infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause pus cells even if the urine culture is normal.
6. Prostate Infections (in men):- Prostatitis can lead to pus cells along with pelvic discomfort and painful urination.
7. Blockages or Structural Problems:- Blocked urine flow, enlarged prostate, or abnormalities in the urinary tract allow bacteria to grow, increasing pus cells.
8. Pregnancy-Related Urinary Changes:- Pregnant women are at higher risk of UTIs, which may show up as pus cells in urine.

Symptoms of High Pus Cells in Urine

Not everyone will have symptoms. Sometimes, mild infections produce no signs. However, in most cases, the following symptoms can appear:

• Burning or pain while urinating
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Urinating very small amounts
• Lower abdominal or pelvic pain
• Blood in urine (pink or red urine)
• Back or flank pain
• Fever and chills (in advanced infections)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Weakness and tiredness

If you experience 2 or more symptoms at the same time, you should get a urine examination immediately.

Urine Examination: What Does It Check?

A standard urine examination includes:

• Pus cells
• Red blood cells
• Bacteria
• Crystals
• Sugar
• Protein
• Ketones
• pH level
• Urine color & clarity
• Specific gravity
• Epithelial cells

These give doctors a clear picture of your urinary system, hydration level, kidney health, and possible infections.

Tests Required When Pus Cells Are High

If your urine examination shows high pus cells, doctors may recommend one or more of these tests:

1. Urine Culture & Sensitivity
2. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
3. KFT Blood Test
4. Ultrasound KUB
5. CT Scan (if needed)

Why Early Attention to Urinary Symptoms is Important

Many people ignore mild urinary symptoms, assuming they will disappear on their own. However, even a small infection can spread quickly if not treated on time. When bacteria multiply in the urinary tract, they irritate the bladder and kidneys, leading to increased pus cells, pain, and discomfort. If the infection reaches the kidneys, it can become more serious and harder to treat. Early urine examination helps detect these issues before they turn into major complications. This is why regular testing, proper hygiene, and timely medical treatment are essential to protect your kidneys and prevent repeated urinary infections.

How to Maintain Urinary Health and Prevent Pus Cells

Healthy urinary habits can prevent most infections. Here are simple prevention tips:

1. Drink enough water daily: Hydration flushes out bacteria and keeps urine dilute.
2. Do not hold urine for long: Holding urine encourages bacterial growth and causes irritation.
3. Maintain proper hygiene: Clean the genital area daily; clean front to back.
4. Urinate after sexual activity: This flushes out bacteria that may enter during intercourse.
5. Manage kidney stones: Stone treatment reduces repeated urinary infections.
6. Strengthen your immunity: Eat fruits, drink water, and avoid excessive sugar.

Why Choose City X-Ray & Scan Clinic?

For urinary issues, accurate testing is very important. City X-Ray offers high-quality diagnostic services that ensure correct and quick results.

1. Accurate & Reliable Testing
2. Complete UTI and Kidney Testing Under One Roof
3. Fast Reports
4. Expert Pathologists & Radiologists
5. Affordable Rates
6. Home Sample Collection

Conclusion

The presence of pus cells in a urine examination is a sign that your body may be fighting an infection or irritation. While mild levels are common, high levels need investigation and treatment. Understanding symptoms, knowing the causes, and doing the right tests help in detecting issues early.

Choosing a reliable diagnostic centre like City X-Ray & Scan Clinic ensures accurate urine examination, timely reports, and expert guidance. With proper hygiene, hydration, and preventive care, you can maintain good urinary health and avoid repeated problems.