OVERVIEW
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that occurs in any part of the urinary system. A UTI is the abnormal growth of bacteria associated with abnormal symptoms. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract — the bladder and the urethra. Women are at greater risk of developing a UTI than men. Serious consequences can occur if a UTI is not treated or spreads to your kidneys.
Symptoms
You may experience the following common symptoms:
- Strong, persistent urge to urinate
- Burning when urination
- Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
- Urine that appears cloudy
- Urine that appears red, bright pink or cola-colored, which may be a sign of blood in the urine
- Strong-smelling urine
- Pelvic pain
- Fever or chills
Causes
Urinary tract infections typically occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder. Risks factors include being female, sexual activity, certain types of birth control, urinary tract blockages, kidney stones, catheter use and menopause.
Diagnosis/Evaluation
1) What to know before your visit
- During your visit, your doctor will ask you questions regarding your medical history and will perform an examination with focus on the abdomen, genitalia, and possibly a digital rectal exam (for male patients)
2) Other tests that may be performed during or after your visit include:
- Urinalysis – this evaluates for any blood in the urine or infection
- Post-void residual: The physician will often ask you to void and then check to make sure you are emptying your bladder
- Renal/bladder ultrasound - imaging of the kidneys and bladder
- Cystoscopy: This is a procedure performed in the office where the physician inserts a small scope into the urethra to assess for any abnormalities
Treatment
NON-SURGICAL TREATMENTS
- Behavioral changes: Maintaining adequate hydration (i.e. drinking 6-8 glasses of water per day), avoiding constipation, using lubrication during intercourse if vaginal dryness, maintaining adequate blood sugar control if diabetic, changing pads regularly if soiled.
- Vaginal estrogen: A cream placed on the lining of the vagina in post-menopausal women to improve the thickness of the vaginal mucosa
- Cranberry supplements: Can change the pH of the urine and decrease the risk of UTI
- Probiotics
- D-Mannose: Utilized in those with recurrent Ecoli infections. It will decrease the ability of Ecoli to stick to the lining of the bladder
SURGICAL TREATMENTS
Most of the time (>95%) there is no urologic (surgically correctable) cause for your infections, and no further urology evaluation is needed. In cases of anatomical abnormalities, kidney stones, or foreign bodies, surgery may be necessary.
Schedule an appointment with a MidLantic Urology physician near you today!