Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, can happen to anyone, but when they recur, it’s important to see a urologist to pinpoint the cause and find the right UTI treatment. This video explains more about recurrent UTIs in women, who is most likely to get them, and what can be done to treat them.

Recurring UTIs may occur when the initial treatment was not effective. Typically, over-the-counter medications will not clear up an infection completely. In some cases, bladder stones can contribute to recurring UTIs as well.

Urology Associates, P.C. can help you get the right UTI treatment to put recurrent infections behind you. Make an appointment with a urologist in Nashville by calling (855) 901-1338.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are caused by bacteria that can proliferate in the bladder, urethra, ureters, or kidneys. In most cases, UTIs affect the urethra and bladder. Since women are much more likely to develop UTIs than men, it’s helpful to learn how to detect the signs and symptoms, and to know when to see a urologist.

Causes and Risk Factors

A UTI can develop when bacteria enter the urethra and spread to the bladder. Cystitis is the infection of the bladder, and urethritis is the infection of the urethra. In addition to having female anatomy, other risk factors of UTIs include:

• Being sexually active
• Having a new sexual partner
• Going through menopause
• Using diaphragms or spermicidal agents for birth control
• Having kidney stones
• Using a urinary catheter
• Having a suppressed immune system
• Having a recent pelvic surgery

Patients should note that, although most UTIs affect women, it is still possible for men to develop these infections—particularly if they need to use a urinary catheter.

Signs and Symptoms

Urinary tract infections generally make themselves known by causing a painful, burning sensation during urination . Women sometimes report suffering from pelvic pain, and urinating frequently, but in small amounts. In some cases, the urine may look reddish or pinkish, which indicates the presence of blood. If the UTI involves the kidneys, women should seek emergency care, as permanent kidney damage or even death can result from an untreated kidney infection. Kidney infections can cause:

• High fever
• Shaking and chills
• Nausea and vomiting
• Pain of the side and back

Treatment and Prevention

Antibiotics are the primary UTI treatment, although some women might also be prescribed a medicine to control the pain during urination. Severe UTIs, such as those that involve the kidneys, might require hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics. Women who suffer from recurrent UTIs can consult a urologist to discuss a preventive approach, which may include the following:

• Wiping from front to back
• Urinating shortly after sex
• Drinking plenty of water
• Avoiding feminine products that irritate the area

Urinary tract infections can be painful, but you can find the rapid relief you need at Urology Associates, P.C. In addition to UTI treatment at our locations throughout Tennessee, our dedicated, courteous team provides comprehensive sexual health evaluations and treatments. Call (855) 901-1338.

One common reason why people visit a urologist in Nashville is for urinary tract infections. Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, can happen in both men and women, but women are much more prone to getting them. By understanding UTIs better you can learn to spot the symptoms and get treatment early, before the infection becomes severe. Here is what you need to know.

What Causes Urinary Tract Infections?

Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria are introduced to the urinary system. This can happen from not wiping from front to back after using the bathroom or from sexual contact. When bacteria enter the system, they can travel from the urethra to the bladder, and eventually to the kidneys. When a UTI spreads to the kidneys, the infection can be serious and urgent treatment is required.

What Are the Symptoms?

UTI symptoms include a burning sensation during urination and a strong urge to urinate with only a small amount of urine actually passing. You may notice that your urine smells strong or that it is cloudy or has blood in it. Pain in the lower back also often accompanies a UTI. If you experience a fever with a UTI, it usually means that the infection has spread to your kidneys.

What Are the Treatments for Urinary Tract Infections?

UTI treatment usually involves taking antibiotics and drinking plenty of water to flush the bacteria out of your body. Cranberry juice is also helpful. If your UTI is painful, your urologist may also prescribe pain medication. For less severe pain, try using a heating pad to ease your discomfort.

At the first sign of a UTI, make an appointment at Urology Associates P.C. for diagnosis and treatment. Attacking a UTI early will prevent it from spreading and becoming more serious. To schedule an appointment with one of our urologists, please call (888) 329-7700.