UTI

What is a urinary tract infection?

A urinary tract infection or UTI is an infection that affects your bladder, urethra, kidneys, or ureters. Caused by bacteria in most cases, UTIs commonly affect the lower urinary tract — the bladder and the urethra.

Are there different types of urinary tract infections?

There are three main types of urinary tract infections, each of which Denver Medical Concierges treats. They are:

Cystitis

Cystitis is a bladder infection that causes a frequent urge to urinate, pain while urinating, lower abdominal pain, or cloudy or bloody urine.

Pyelonephritis

Pyelonephritis is a kidney infection that can cause one-sided back pain, fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting.

Urethritis

Urethritis is an infection of the urethra. It can lead to abnormal vaginal or penile discharge, as well as a burning sensation during urination.

What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection?

Many people experience no symptoms when they have a urinary tract infection. However, some of the most common UTI symptoms to look out for include:

• Burning sensation while urinating
• Cloudy urine
• Persistent, urgent need to urinate
• Urine that smells stronger than usual
• Pelvic pain (in women)
• Blood in urine

While about one in 10 men experience a UTI during their lifetime, urinary tract infections are far more common in women. Some experts estimate that your chances of developing a UTI as a woman are one in two.

What causes urinary tract infections?

Bacteria in the urinary system are the main cause of most urinary tract infections. Risk factors that increase your chances of developing a UTI include:

• Being female 
• Menopause 
• Sexual intercourse 
• Diaphragms and spermicides 
• Impaired immune system 
• Urinary tract blockage (kidney stones, enlarged prostate, etc.) 
• Catheter use

UTIs rarely lead to additional complications when treated right away. However, untreated UTIs increase your risk of recurrent infections, kidney damage, and even low birth weight if you’re pregnant.

How are urinary tract infections treated?

The most common treatment for a urinary tract infection is antibiotics, but the best way to stop a UTI in its tracks is to prevent it in the first place. Some tips to prevent a UTI include:

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Urinate immediately after intercourse
• Avoid douches, feminine sprays, and powders
• Wipe from front to back
• Switch birth control

If you’re struggling with a urinary tract infection, call the experts at Denver Medical Concierges or schedule an appointment online today.