What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI)?
UTIs are infections in any part of your urinary tract, including your kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most infections occur in the bladder or urethra but can spread to your kidneys if left untreated, which can be a serious illness.
Symptoms of a UTI include:
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Pain or a burning sensation when urinating
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Urine with a pink, red, or brown tint
- Frequent urination with small amounts of urine
- Pelvic pain in women
UTIs are more common in women than men and can be mistaken for other conditions, especially among older adults.
What causes UTIs?
UTIs are most often caused by E. coli from the digestive tract, though other types of bacteria can cause them. UTIs develop when bacteria enter the urethra or urinary tract, either due to the close proximity of the anus to the vaginal opening and urethra in women or during sexual intercourse.
Men can develop UTIs if they have a surgical procedure near their penis, which houses their urethra. Catheters are another common cause for UTIs in both men and women.
How are UTIs diagnosed?
The most common way to diagnose a UTI is by testing a urine sample for the presence of bacteria. Your doctor provides you with a sterile cup to collect your urine in the restroom and then tests the urine for E. coli and other bacteria that can cause infection.
If the results are inconclusive, additional tests like a urine culture, CT scan, MRI, or scope, may be needed to determine the cause and location of your infection.
How are UTIs treated?
The team provides antibiotics to treat UTIs. Additionally, at-home care can help relieve your discomfort while your antibiotics take effect. At-home suggestions include:
- Drinking plenty of water
- Using the restroom frequently
- Washing your hands frequently to avoid spreading the infection
- Taking a supplement with cranberry juice
If you experience frequent UTIs, your doctor can prescribe a low dose of antibiotics to be used for six months. Vaginal estrogen therapy is another option if your UTI is related to postmenopause.
For quick and effective UTI treatment, schedule a visit online, or call Huntington Urology Specialists today.
