Favorite Organizations For Essential Uti Info
We love the patient-friendly foundation page of the American Urological Association website. Here, youll find lots of support and educational resources for those with urological issues. Our favorite part is that all your must-know info can come straight to your mailbox: UCF offers free subscriptions to its UrologyHealth Extra magazine.
This no-nonsense clearinghouse is run by the National Institutes of Health, and provides gobs of information on urinary tract infections from the National Library of Medicine. We especially like that you can easily find the latest published research on UTIs and that theres a quick link to current clinical trials for those who are interested.
The CDC is a trusted go-to source for the writers and editors of Everyday Health, thanks to their commitment to science-based research and reporting. What makes the CDC a particularly helpful resource for urinary tract infection information is the fact that their antibiotics and treatment guidelines for UTIs are always up-to-date.
UTI symptoms can be uncomfortable or painful. They include the following:
- A strong urge to urinate
- Pain or burning during urination
- Passing small amounts of urine
- Cloudy, strong-smelling, red or pink urine
- Mucus or discharge
- Fever, shaking, chills, or pain in the upper back, side, or groin
E. coli
When To Go To The Er For Uti Symptoms
If your symptoms have progressed to the point of lethargy, pain, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting and/or blood in the urine, you need to get to the nearest Advance ER right away.
If you are pregnant, have diabetes, use a catheter, have an enlarged prostate or are prone to kidney stones, it is especially important for you to see a physician right away when you first start to show symptoms of a UTI, said Dr. Shalev. Also, babies and children need prompt care.
You May Like: How Does Bacteria Get Into The Urinary Tract
How To Prevent Urinary Tract Infection
There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting a UTI for men and women. A few of those are
- Drink plenty of water and other liquids to help flush out bacteria.
- Urinate frequently, or about every two to three hours.
- For women: Wipe from front to back after urinating or having a bowel movement.
- Urinate before and soon after having sexual intercourse.
- Avoid synthetic underwear, tight pants, and lingering in wet gym clothes or a bathing suit. Though none of this can cause a UTI, these habits can increase the spread of bacteria.
- For women: Avoid vaginal deodorants, douches, powders, and other potentially irritating feminine products.
- Use a method of birth control other than a diaphragm, spermicide, or unlubricated condoms.
In some people, urinary tract infections come back again and again. Women, especially, are likely to have recurrent UTIs. While recurrences usually develop within three months of the original infection, having over two within six months is technically considered a recurrence.
Besides precautions and at-home strategies to help prevent UTIs, sometimes antibiotics are used as a preventive measure for those with frequent UTI recurrences.
Managing risk factors by maintaining good hygiene, such as wiping from front to back for women and avoiding spermicides, can lower your likelihood of repeat UTI.
How long does the urinary tract infection last?
Can I have a urinary tract infection home treatment?
Quick Links
You May Like: Signs And Symptoms Of Urinary Incontinence
When To Repeat Urine Tests After Antibiotic Therapy For Uti
When should follow-up urinalysis and cultures be considered after completing antibiotic therapy for UTI? Asymptomatic bacteriuria is caused by the presence of significant amounts of bacteria in the urine without symptoms. Following the treatment, a urine culture is used to ensure its effectiveness. If the results are abnormal, additional tests may be ordered. Depending on the individuals doctor, the length of time it takes to take a urine test after antibiotic therapy for UTI is determined. Medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements should all be discussed with your doctor. Medicines that are not required by a prescription as well as illegal drugs you can use are also covered by this policy.
How Do You Get Urinary Tract Infections
The design of the human body makes it so it isnt hard to get a bacterial UTI, because the infection comes from outside, through the urethra. Bacteria in the genital area can enter the urethra and the urinary tract, either because wiping after going to the bathroom, sexual activity, or unsanitary conditions. Once the bacteria have entered the urethra, the body tries fight them off, but sometimes the bacteria multiply and cause an infection.
In the case of a fungal infection, usually the fungus gets to the urinary tract through the blood stream. Those who develop this type of infection are usually ill with a disease that has compromised their immune system, such as AIDS.
Don’t Miss: What Does A Urinary Tract Infection Feel Like
What To Do If You Keep Getting Utis
“It’s also important to consult your doctor if you’re getting UTIs frequently which is about three or more times per year,” Dr. Kannady recommends.
Recurrent UTIs are fairly common, and they’re also often effectively controlled via lifestyle changes. In some cases, though, your doctor may recommend that you see a urologist for further evaluation.
“Frequent UTIs are sometimes the result of an underlying health issue, such as kidney stones or abnormalities in your kidneys, bladder, or urethra,” Dr. Kannady adds. “A urologist can rule out or diagnose and treat issues such as these, as well as provide further guidance on how to prevent UTI reoccurrence.”
How Are Utis Diagnosed
Only a health care provider can treat urinary tract infections. The first thing a doctor will do is confirm that a person has a UTI by taking a clean-catch urine specimen. At the doctors office, youll be asked to clean your genital area with disposable wipes and then pee into a sterile cup.
The sample may be used for a urinalysis or a urine culture . Knowing what bacteria are causing the infection can help your doctor choose the best treatment.
Recommended Reading: What Is The First Line Treatment For Urinary Tract Infection
Treatment From A Gp For Utis That Keep Coming Back
If your UTI comes back after treatment, or you have 2 UTIs in 6 months, a GP may:
- prescribe a different antibiotic or prescribe a low-dose antibiotic to take for up to 6 months
- prescribe a vaginal cream containing oestrogen, if you have gone through the menopause
- refer you to a specialist for further tests and treatments
In some people, antibiotics do not work or urine tests do not pick up an infection, even though you have UTI symptoms.
This may mean you have a long-term UTI that is not picked up by current urine tests. Ask the GP for a referral to a specialist for further tests and treatments.
Long-term UTIs are linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer in people aged 60 and over.
Also Check: Causes Of Urinary Frequency And Urgency In Females
Treatment Of Utis In A Dog
Antibiotics are indicated for bacterial UTIs. Prescription food may be required to combat crystals/stones in the urinary tract.
Resistant or recurrent UTIs are a real pain in the neck for the patient, pet parent and doc! Many of these require additional testing before a treatment plan can be reached.
Over-the-county remedies and supplements such as cranberry juice extracts dont seem to do much good. One of the most trusted voices in holistic/naturopathic veterinary medicine, Dr. Susan Wynn, DVM, CVA, CVCH, AHG, says she does not use them.
Recommended Reading: Purina One For Urinary Tract Health
When To Get Medical Advice
It’s a good idea to see your GP if you think you might have a UTI, particularly if:
- you have symptoms of an upper UTI
- the symptoms are severe or getting worse
- the symptoms haven’t started to improve after a few days
- you get UTIs frequently
Your GP can rule out other possible causes of your symptoms by testing a sample of your urine and can prescribe antibiotics if you do have an infection.
Antibiotics are usually recommended because untreated UTIs can potentially cause serious problems if they’re allowed to spread.
Is Uti Common After Spinal Cord Injury
Yes. Here are 3 of the more common reasons people with SCI develop UTIs.
1. Most people lose normal urinary function after SCI. They need a bladder management option to empty the urine from their bladder to keep their bladder and kidneys healthy. Most bladder management options make it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder through the urethra.
- Please read Bladder Management Options Following Spinal Cord Injury to learn more about normal urinary function, how it changes after SCI, and bladder management options.
2. Most people lose normal bowel function after SCI, and contact with stool is common during bowel management. Stool has bacteria that can cause a UTI. UTIs are often caused when bacteria from stool gets into the bladder when the bladder is being emptied.
- Please read Bowel Function after Spinal Cord Injury to learn more about normal bowel function, how it changes after SCI, and bowel management options.
3. Once in the bladder, bacteria are hard to get rid of. People with normal bladder function can usually get rid of most bacteria by fully emptying their bladder when they urinate. However, many people with SCI cant fully empty their bladder, even with good bladder management. This allows bacteria to stay in the bladder almost all of the time, making it easier for a UTI to develop.
Read Also: What Causes Male Urinary Urgency
How To Prevent Utis In Cats
Changes in lifestyle are thought to be the cause of UTIs in cats. UTIs can occur in cats if they are not getting enough exercise or if they are not getting enough fresh air. Furthermore, UTIs in cats can be caused by a variety of other factors, including excessive sweating. Meat and fish are two of the most important foods to eat. When drinking water, do not exceed the recommended amount. A loose bladder. Before you have a UTI, you are at risk of developing a UTI. UTIs are common. UTIs are common after childbirth, but they can also occur during the first few days of your childs life. If your cat has recurrent UTIs, your veterinarian may advise you to feed him a urinary tract diet to help prevent the infection from returning. Antibiotics may also be prescribed by your veterinarian to treat UTIs.
/4the Symptoms Of Uti Mostly Depend On The Location Of The Infection
Urinary tract infection is, as the name suggests, the infection of the urinary tract or the urinary system. However, the effects of this infection when left untreated wreaks havoc on the system which is one of the most important parts of the body as it helps in excretion of toxic wastes. The urinary system comprises kidneys, bladder, ureters and urethra.
Read Also: Purina Pro Plan Urinary Vs Purina One Urinary
Did You Know That Kids Can Also Develop Urinary Tract Infections If Your Child Is Suffering From The Infection Heres What You Need To Know
Written by Editorial Team | Updated : February 4, 2022 11:18 AM IST
When germs enter the urine and travel up to the bladder, this is known as a urinary tract infection or UTI. Its an infection that can damage the bladder, kidneys, and urethra, among other parts of the urinary tract. Kidney injury is more common in young children than in older children or adults as a result of UTI. In the first few years of life, UTIs afflict up to 8 out of every 100 girls and 2 out of every 100 boys. UTI causes kidney injury more frequently in young children than in older children or adults.
Urinary tract infections are among the irritating disorders that can bring your child pain and suffering. They are quite frequent in youngsters, particularly girls, but the symptoms of this infection might be difficult to detect at times. Its critical to have your child treated since a urinary tract infection might progress to a more serious kidney infection. Cystitis is an infection of the lower urinary tract , which is more prevalent.
What Are The Symptoms Of A Uti
If you have a UTI, you may have some or all of these symptoms:6,7
- Pain or burning when urinating
- An urge to urinate often, but not much comes out when you go
- Pressure in your lower abdomen
- Urine that smells bad or looks milky or cloudy
- Blood in the urine. This is more common in younger women. If you see blood in your urine, tell a doctor or nurse right away.
- Feeling tired, shaky, confused, or weak. This is more common in older women.
- Having a fever, which may mean the infection has reached your kidneys
Recommended Reading: Can All Cats Eat Urinary Food
Symptoms Of Urinary Tract Infections
The most common symptom of UTIs is a frequent and urgent need to pee. You may even feel the need to do so after just coming from the bathroom. Other signs and symptoms of urinary tract infections include:
- Pain or a burning sensation when you pee
- Presence of pus or blood in your urine
- Urine that looks cloudy or smells bad
- Soreness, pressure, or cramps in your lower belly, side, or back
If the infection has progressed to your kidneys, your symptoms may also include:
Children younger than two years old with a kidney infection may not show any signs of the condition. They may only have a high fever and not feel pain or experience problems with urination. In some cases, older people may also not show the typical signs and symptoms. You might only notice confusion or muddled speech.
For Those Who Experience Frequent Utis Managing Risk Factors May Help With Prevention
In some people, urinary tract infections come back again and again. Women, especially, are likely to have recurrent UTIs. While recurrences usually develop within three months of the original infection, having more than two within six months is technically considered a recurrence.
Besides precautions and at-home strategies to help prevent UTIs, sometimes antibiotics are used as a preventive measure for those with frequent UTI recurrences.
Managing risk factors by maintaining good hygiene, such as wiping from front to back for women and avoiding spermicides can lower your likelihood of repeat UTIs.
You May Like: What Antibiotics Are Given For Urinary Tract Infections
What Causes A Uti
A UTI occurs when bacteria infect the urinary tract, causing irritation and inflammation. Most UTIs are caused by E. coli, a bacterium that normally resides in the gut but can get displaced from the rectum to the urethra after a bowel movement.
And after an infection takes hold in the urinary tract, it can then progress to the bladder and even the kidneys.
UTIs are more common in women than in men because a womans urethra is much shorter making it easier for bacteria to not only become relocated there but to move through and into the bladder as well.
To help prevent a UTI, always be sure to wipe from front to back never the other way around while using the restroom.
You May Like: How Does Bacteria Get Into The Urinary Tract
What Does A Uti Feel Like
If you have a UTI, you almost always feel it.
The most common UTI symptoms include:
- Frequent and strong urge to urinate
- Burning sensation, or even pain, while urinating
- Feeling as if you are unable to empty completely while urinating
- Having urine that is strong-smelled, cloudy or discolored
- Pelvic pain, in some cases
“Some of these symptoms, such as a burning sensation during urination, can overlap with the symptoms of other vaginal infections, such as yeast infections which are treated very differently from UTIs,” says Dr. Kannady.
This is one reason why it’s so important to consult your doctor about UTI symptoms. He or she can determine if your symptoms are truly indicative of a UTI and run the tests needed to appropriately diagnose and treat your infection.
Also Check: Is Urinary Incontinence A Normal Part Of Aging
How Should You Sleep With A Uti
Use an incontinence pad or wear incontinence pants. These can lessen the concern of urinating in your sleep or give you the option of not getting out of bed to urinate. Use a hot water bottle or heating pad to warm your abdomen to minimize bladder discomfort or pressure. Completely empty your bladder before bed.
What Is The Most Common Cause Of Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
Lower urinary tract diseases in cats are uncommon, but bacterial cystitis is the most common cause of them. FLUTD affects about 5% of the population. Older cats are more likely to develop bacterial cystitis.
Cats And Dirty Litter Boxes
While cats are frequently viewed as clean animals, filthy litter boxes can cause health problems. Poor litter box hygiene can result in painful kidney infections, bladder infections, bladder stones, and urinary tract infections in cats. Although many cases of FLUTD are treated without medical intervention, symptoms may reappear. FLUTD is not a life-threatening condition for your cat, but because it is uncomfortable, it can make her life more enjoyable. If you notice that your cat is having difficulty with his or her litter box, you should take him to the veterinarian for a check-up.
Recommended Reading: Urinary Tract Infection Symptoms In Women
Living With Urinary Tract Infections
If you have 3 or more urinary tract infections each year, your doctor may want you to begin a preventive antibiotic program. A small dose of an antibiotic taken every day helps to reduce the number of infections. If sexual intercourse seems to cause infections for you, your doctor many suggest taking the antibiotic after intercourse.