Urinary Tract Infection

What is a urinary tract infection?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common health problem that causes inflammation of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. The majority of UTIs affect the lower urinary tract and present minor but annoying symptoms. If an infection spreads to your kidneys it can present serious and even life-threatening problems.

What are the symptoms of a UTI?

Symptoms of a urinary tract infection include:

• A persistent urge to urinate
• Urine that appears cloudy
• Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
• A burning sensation when urinating

If you’re a woman, you might also experience pelvic pain.

What are the types of urinary tract infection?

Farr Medical Group, Inc. diagnoses and treats several types of urinary tract infections, including:

Infection of the bladder (cystitis)

Cystitis is caused by E. coli, a type of bacteria that are typically found in the digestive tract. Cystitis can occur due to sexual intercourse or anatomy. A woman’s anus and urethra are very close to one another. Harmful bacteria can make their way into the urethra, causing inflammation and other uncomfortable symptoms.

Infection of the urethra (urethritis)

Urethritis, like cystitis, occurs when harmful bacteria enter the urethra. It can also occur due to sexually transmitted diseases like chlamydia, herpes, and gonorrhea. 

Can anyone experience a urinary tract infection?

Urinary tract infections affect people of all ages, races, and genders but several factors may increase your risk, including:

• Having female anatomy
• Going through menopause
• Blockages of the urinary tract
• Catheter use
• Regular sexual activity

You’re also more likely to develop a UTI if you recently underwent a urinary procedure. 

How are urinary tract infections diagnosed?

To diagnose a urinary tract infection, the Farr Medical Group, Inc. team conducts a physical exam, reviews your health history, and asks about your symptoms. They then order a urinalysis and ultrasound. Urinalysis analyzes your urine for the presence of harmful bacteria. An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to take detailed images of your bladder and urinary tract.

How is a urinary tract infection treated?

Treatment of a urinary tract infection depends on your symptoms and the severity of the infection. If you have a mild infection that causes only mild discomfort, Farr Medical Group, Inc. prescribes oral antibiotics. 

If you have a serious or recurring infection, you might benefit from low-dose antibiotics for several months, a single-dose antibiotic following sexual intercourse, or vaginal estrogen therapy if you’re post-menopausal. 

Don’t wait to receive treatment for a urinary tract infection at Farr Medical Group, Inc. Schedule a same-day appointment with the online booking tool or call the office today.