Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection?

Bladder infections are characterized by an urge to urinate, burning during urination, urinary frequency, and cloudy or foul smelling urine. A kidney infection is a more severe form of a UTI and can also be associated with fevers and flank discomfort.

How is a urinary tract infection diagnosed?

A UTI is diagnosed by a provider evaluation accompanied by a urine test, which can assess for the presence of bacteria and other abnormalities in the urine. A UTI is treated with antibiotics, which can treat the bacteria responsible for causing the infection.

Why do some people get recurrent urinary tract infections?

If one is affected by recurrent UTIs they should be evaluated by a urologist to rule out anatomical factors which can contribute to these infections. Some patients are predisposed to UTIs due to genetic factors and after sexual intercourse. Additionally having a big prostate, not being able to empty your bladder well, diabetes, vaginal atrophy, and kidney stones are factors that have been demonstrated to contribute to recurrent UTI’s.

What strategies can help prevent recurrent urinary tract infections?

There are several steps can help prevent recurrent UTIs. Drinking plenty of water and urinating after important adjustments which should be made. Certain cranberry supplements and probiotics can reduce the risk of having further UTIs. Methenamine is a medication which can make it difficult for bacteria to grow in your urine. If a post-menopausal woman is found to have vaginal atrophy, she may be recommended to take vaginal estrogen.