Urinary Tract Infection

What causes urinary tract infections?

Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are caused when bacteria enter the urinary tract, overwhelming the body's natural defenses. Once inside the urinary tract, they multiply and grow, eventually moving upward into the bladder and even into the kidneys. Growth can occur quickly.

What are the symptoms of UTIs?

Most UTIs cause symptoms like:

• sudden, frequent and intense need to urinate
• inability to empty the bladder
• pain or burning sensations when urinating
• cloudy or pink-tinged urine
• urine that has a strong smell

When a UTI is not promptly treated, symptoms may also include fever, chills, low back pain, and vomiting. Low back pain usually indicates the kidneys have become infected or inflamed.

How are urinary tract infections treated?

Most UTIs can be treated with antibiotics. Taking the entire course of antibiotics, even when symptoms have cleared up, is essential to ensure all the bacteria have been destroyed. Drinking lots of water can also help flush the bacteria out of the body. When UTIs occur on a regular basis, it may indicate a structural abnormality or defect that is making it more difficult for the body to get rid of harmful germs. In that case, a special diagnostic exam can be performed to look inside the bladder to look for issues that need to be corrected to help prevent future infections.

What can I do to prevent a urinary tract infection?

To prevent UTIs, it's important to drink water every day and to make an appointment at the first sign of symptoms. Also, be sure to wipe front to back after going to the bathroom to prevent transferring bacteria from the anus to the urethra.