4 Questions to Ask about Urinary Tract Infection
A urinary tract infection is a frequent form of infection in the urinary tract that produces discomfort while urinating. It may affect any part of the urinary tract. Dr. Andrew J. Blankenau, MD, and his caring staff at Minor Emergency of Denton provide skilled evaluation and care for Urinary tract infection (UTI)-related medical conditions. For more information, please contact us or simply walk in! We are conveniently located at 4400 Teasley Ln #200 Denton, TX 76210.
Table of Contents:
How can you tell if you have a UTI?
What is the best thing to do for a UTI?
What are the main causes of UTI?
How do I get rid of a urinary tract infection?
Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are a caused when bacteria enters the urinary tract, often through the urethra. The most common culprit for causing UTIs is E. coli, making up about 90% of overall cases. Symptoms of UTIs often include pain while urinating, cloudy or foul smelling urine and the frequent need to urinate.
Common symptoms that may indicate an urinary tract infection include:
• A strong, persistent urge to urinate
• A burning sensation when urinating
• Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
• Urine that appears cloudy
• Urine that appears red, bright pink or cola-colored — a sign of blood in the urine
• Strong-smelling urine
• Pelvic pain around the area of the pubic bone and in the center of the pelvis
Best practices in the treatment of UTIs include:
• Drink more water
• Frequent urination
• Antibiotics
• Pain relievers
• Heating pads
• Wear loose-fitting clothes
• Increase vitamin C intake
• Take a probiotic
Unfortunately, a urinary tract infection can be easy to get. Bacteria that live in adjacent areas such as the vagina and anal areas may enter the urethra, travel to the bladder, and cause an infection in the urinary tract. UTIs can be caused by a number of different bacteria, including chlamydia, gonorrhea and other organisms.
Although UTIs are not spread from one person to another like STDs, sexual intercourse can lead to or exacerbate UTIs. But you don’t have to have sex to get a UTI, as anything that makes bacteria come into contact with your urethra can cause a UTI.
The risk of getting a urinary tract infection is higher if you:
• have had one before
• have diabetes
• are obese
• use spermicidesor a diaphragm
• have kidney stones or other urinary tract obstructions
The best way to get rid of a UTI is to see a doctor as you may need antibiotics.
If you can’t get see a doctor right away, there are some things that you can do to help provide some relief.
Staying hydrated — Drinking lots of fluids helps pass bacteria through the bladder, reducing the proliferation of pathogens.
Urinating when the need arises — Don’t hold it in, as this can let bacteria accumulate inside the urinary tract. Drinking plenty of fluids helps urine pass more easily.
Using probiotics — Beneficial bacteria are known as probiotics and help keep the urinary tract healthy by reducing levels of harmful bacteria.
Getting enough vitamin C — Vitamin C is an essential vitamin that acts as an antioxidant and helps boost the immune system.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a UTI, come to Minor Emergency of Denton TX today. Our kind and compassionate medical professionals are experienced in treating UTIs and can help you find relief. Simply walk in! There is no need for an appointment.
