Connect with others who understand.

  • Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  • Real advice from people who’ve been there
  • People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of myPBCteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A myPBCteam Member asked a question 💭
Du Quoin, IL

I was diagnosed in 2020 but my doctor wouldn’t say what stage I’m in. I don’t have the itching yet.

January 17
 · 
Reactions
A myPBCteam Member

Change Doctors. It is very important to know what stage you are in. The goal is to maintain and stay in one stage for as long as you can thru nutrition and exercise.
Do not have regrets from not demanding answers. This Disease can progress quickly if you are in the dark of where you stand. What is your Meld score? What are your liver numbers? Are you in stage 1,2,3,or 4? What foods damage my Liver?
Demand answers and be your own warrior.

January 24
A myPBCteam Member

Yes my doctor told me I didn’t need to worry about staging at that point so I’m assuming I was diagnosed early.

January 17
A myPBCteam Member

Hi marci
You are so fortunate your enzymes are within normal range!!!!😍

January 24
A myPBCteam Member

Thank you so much for the advice. I already have a new doctor but I have not asked questions like this. I asked how soon I will die from it to my old doctor and she said I don’t need to worry about that.
I’m taking urso at this time and my liver enzymes are within normal range. That is all I know about my condition other than my own research about it and how it will affect my symptoms.
Thank you again ❤️

January 24
myPBCteam

Can PBC cause foul-smelling urine?

Foul-smelling urine isn't typically listed as a direct symptom of PBC. However, people with PBC do have a higher history of urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can definitely cause urine to smell bad.

If you're noticing a foul odor, it's worth mentioning to your doctor. They can check Show Full Answer

Can PBC cause foul-smelling urine?

Foul-smelling urine isn't typically listed as a direct symptom of PBC. However, people with PBC do have a higher history of urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can definitely cause urine to smell bad.

If you're noticing a foul odor, it's worth mentioning to your doctor. They can check for a UTI or other causes unrelated to PBC.

Regarding your stage, it's completely reasonable to ask your doctor directly what stage you're in. Being your own advocate means preparing questions before appointments and asking for clear answers about your condition. You might want to write down:

* What stage of PBC am I in?
* How do you determine the stage?
* What symptoms should I watch for as my condition progresses?

Not everyone with PBC experiences itching, especially in earlier stages. About 73-81% of people with PBC experience itchy skin at some point, but that means many don't. If itching does develop later, there are treatments available to help manage it.

January 17

Related Questions

View All
A myPBCteam Subscriber asked a question 💭