What causes a UTI?
A urinary tract infection is caused by bacteria that infiltrates any part of your urinary tract. You may have this infection in your:
- Urethra
- Bladder
- Ureters
- Kidneys
While men can develop a UTI, women are far more susceptible due to their anatomy. In women, bacteria travels a shorter distance to infect the urinary tract and elicit infection. Usually, it’s bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract that causes a UTI. Sexual activity can also spread bacteria and lead to a UTI.
What are the symptoms of a UTI?
You don’t always experience symptoms with a UTI. But in most cases, you’ll know it due to painful irritation during urination. You may suffer:
- A persistent need to urinate
- Strong urine odor
- Burning during urination
- Fever
- Back pain
Some women have blood in the urine and pelvic pain as a result of a UTI. If you experience any of these symptoms, call the office of New England Women’s Healthcare for an evaluation.
How should I address a UTI?
If you suspect you have a UTI, make an immediate appointment at New England Women’s Healthcare. The doctors review your symptoms and perform a urine test to check for bacteria. For women who suffer from recurrent UTIs, an ultrasound may be ordered to determine the cause.
How do the doctors treat a UTI?
A course of antibiotics usually clears up the bacterial infection that’s infiltrated your urinary tract. After a few days on the antibiotics, your symptoms should start to resolve, but it’s important to take the full course to wipe out all traces of infection.
What complications can occur as a result of a UTI?
If a UTI goes untreated, the bacterial infection can spread to other areas of your body. You may experience a bladder or kidney infection as a result. Sepsis – when the infection spreads to your bloodstream – can also occur.
If you suspect you have a UTI, don’t hesitate to call the office of New England Women’s Healthcare or go ahead and schedule an appointment online.
