What causes a urinary tract infection?
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are bacterial infections that occur in your kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. But it’s most common for UTIs to affect your lower urinary tract, meaning your bladder and urethra. Even though urinary tract infections can affect both men and women, your risk is much greater if you’re female because of your anatomy.
Since your anus, which can contain Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria, is so close to your urethra as a woman, it’s easy for the bacteria to enter your urethra and cause an infection. Wiping towards the front after going to the bathroom and even having sexual intercourse can also make it easier for bacteria to slip into your urethra.
Other causes and risk factors for urinary tract infections include:
- Blockages, such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate
- Suppressed immune system, possibly due to diabetes
- Changes in your urinary tract due to menopause
- Frequent catheter use
No matter what’s causing your urinary tract infection though, you shouldn’t ignore your symptoms or put off treatment another day.
When should I see a doctor for a urinary tract infection?
The expert medical team at Primary Care Walk - In Medical Clinic encourages you to come in for a urinary tract evaluation if you’re experiencing any kind of pain or discomfort while urinating. You should also make an appointment if you’re noticing:
- High fever
- Frequent urination
- Blood in your urine
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pelvic pain or pressure
Your dedicated physician can run a urinalysis to determine if you have a UTI, so you can get started on treatment quickly.
How is a urinary tract infection treated?
Simple urinary tract infections often require a short course of antibiotics. To further help with pain and irritation throughout your urinary tract, your doctor at Primary Care Walk - In Medical Clinic may recommend:
- Pain medications
- Avoiding spicy foods
- Increasing your fluid intake
- Limiting caffeine and alcohol
If you have a more complicated urinary tract infection, or if you experience recurring UTIs, your practitioner could recommend a longer course of low-dose antibiotics over several months. Rest assured, with the help of the team at Primary Care Walk - In Medical Clinic, you can recover from even the most painful UTIs and restore your quality of life.
Book your urinary tract infection exam at Primary Care Walk - In Medical Clinic today. Click on the online scheduler or call either office to speak with a team member.
