A Patient’s Guide to Urinary Tract Infections

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 888-245-0702.