A urinary tract infection (UTI) happens when harmful bacteria invade your urinary system, typically starting in the urethra. As the bacteria multiply, the infection can spread to your bladder, ureters, or even your kidneys.
While UTIs are common and often cause only mild discomfort, they can lead to serious complications if left untreated. If you think you might have a UTI, it’s important to seek medical attention quickly to prevent further issues.
What Are the Symptoms of a UTI?
Early-stage UTIs may have few obvious symptoms. As the infection progresses, you might notice signs like:
- A frequent, strong urge to urinate
- A painful or burning sensation when you pee
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Red, pink, or brown-colored urine
- A constant feeling of needing to urinate
- In women, pelvic pain, often in the lower abdomen near the pubic bone
How is a UTI Diagnosed?
At Comprehensive Urology, we use a variety of advanced diagnostic tools to detect and evaluate UTIs:
- High-Resolution Ultrasonography: If you frequently get UTIs, your doctor may recommend this imaging test, which uses sound waves to create detailed 3D images of your urinary system. This helps identify abnormalities that could be contributing to your infections.
- Flexible Cystoscopy: This procedure involves a thin, flexible tube with a camera that’s inserted into your urethra and bladder to provide a clear view of the inside. It’s an effective way to find the source of your discomfort.
- Rapid PCR Testing: This advanced test provides quick and accurate results compared to traditional urinalysis, detecting bacteria that cause UTIs, as well as other potential urologic conditions, like kidney disease.
- Antibiotic Genetic Testing: Once a UTI is confirmed, this test helps determine which antibiotics will be most effective for your specific infection, ensuring more targeted and efficient treatment.
How Are UTIs Treated?
Most UTIs are treated with prescription antibiotics. Depending on the severity of the infection and your medical history, your provider might recommend medications like trimethoprim, nitrofurantoin, ceftriaxone, or cephalexin. For recurrent UTIs, low-dose antibiotics over a longer period or vaginal estrogen therapy may be recommended to help prevent future infections.
If you think you have a UTI, don’t wait—getting timely treatment can prevent more serious issues down the road!
