How long will it take for the white blood cells and red blood cells in a routine urine test to return to normal after treatment?

Aug 12, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I went to the hospital for a checkup, and my urinalysis showed high levels of white blood cells and red blood cells. Doctor, I would like to ask, how long does it take to recover from high levels of white blood cells and red blood cells in a urinalysis?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Cao Zhiqiang

Elevated white and red blood cells in routine urine tests can improve within different time frames depending on the underlying cause. Recovery can be judged according to the following points:

1. Urinary tract infection (UTI): If elevated white and red blood cells are caused by bacterial UTIs, antibiotics can be used for treatment. Most cases of UTI can be cured within approximately 4 weeks. During treatment, it is important to follow the doctor's instructions precisely and complete the entire course of medication without stopping prematurely.

2. Other underlying conditions: If the cause is more complex, such as nephritis, kidney stones, or even tumors, the treatment duration may be longer, potentially ranging from several weeks to months, and may require surgery or other specialized treatments. Treatment for kidney stones may take weeks or even months, while tumor treatment might require continuous therapy over several months to years.

3. Individual factors: Treatment duration and effectiveness are also influenced by the patient's age, overall health, immune status, and other individual factors. Generally, younger and healthier patients tend to recover more quickly.