New here - is this a symptom??

[Ambersky]

I'm so glad to have found this site and have tentatively come to a diagnosis for myself of IC. I went to my doctor last week (3rd time in a year) saying that I had a UTI but tests are always negative and they tell me I am dehydrated. I am going to arm myself with some of this informatation on site and make another visit!

Anyway I have the pain discomfort especially in the am and seem to always be aware of my bladder. I had been trying to drink alot of cranberry juice - LOL after reading this board. I seem to be feeling better today after two days of trying to eliminate some of the problem foods.

Anyway the one symptom that I wondered about is that there is a very strong urine smell after I urinate and sometimes it is still in the bathroom several hours later. I think that is where the doctor came up with the dehydration diagnosis but I had been drinking alot of caffeine free diet coke and the cranberry juice. So I would just like to know if a strong urine smell can be a symptom!!! Thank you very much.

[emilyrose197377]

I am not really sure strong urine smell is a sign of infection since the dr. says you don't have an infection. but cranberry juice is an irritant for the bladder in many icers so cranberry might be making you worse. good luck to you I hope you find your answers. Take Care.

[ICNDonna]

If they are telling you you are dehydrated, that usually means you are not drinking enough water to keep yourself hydrated. That also will account for the strong smelling urine in many cases. You really need to increase your fluid intake --- you might try taking small drinks frequently throughout the day. Sometimes that's easier than trying to down a full glass at one time.

Donna