What Are Symptoms Of Urinary Tract Infection In Females

Symptoms Of Urinary Tract Infection In Elderly Woman

Symptoms of cystitis can be difficult to detect, and patients may not actively give this information to you- this is why your communication and consultation skills .

Patients present with symptoms that are not classic for a UTI, such as

chronic dysuria urinary incontinence general sense of feeling unwell issues with gait or falls change in mental status so be careful!

Older Adults Dont Need Powerful Antibiotics For Utis

Treatment for UTIs should begin with narrow-spectrum antibiotics, say Dr. Lathia and Dr. Goldman.

These drugs are less likely to lead to antibiotic resistance and problematic side effects than broad-spectrum antibiotics.

Today, amoxicillin is commonly prescribed as first-line treatment for UTIs in older adults.

Other common narrow-spectrum must be used with caution when patients have chronic kidney disease or take blood pressure medication, as many older adults do or because their side effects can be serious in older adults.

Why Do Women Get Urinary Tract Infections More Often Than Men

Women tend to get urinary tract infections more often than men because bacteria can reach the bladder more easily in women. The urethra is shorter in women than in men, so bacteria have a shorter distance to travel.

The urethra is located near the rectum in women. Bacteria from the rectum can easily travel up the urethra and cause infections. Bacteria from the rectum is more likely to get into the urethra if you wipe from back to front after a bowel movement. Be sure to teach children how to wipe correctly.

Having sex may also cause urinary tract infections in women because bacteria can be pushed into the urethra. Using a diaphragm can lead to infections because diaphragms push against the urethra and make it harder to completely empty your bladder. The urine that stays in the bladder is more likely to grow bacteria and cause infections.

Frequent urinary tract infections may be caused by changes in the bacteria in the vagina. Antibacterial vaginal douches, spermicides, and certain oral antibiotics may cause changes in vaginal bacteria. Avoid using these items, if possible. Menopause can also cause changes in vaginal bacteria that increase your risk for urinary tract infection. Taking estrogen usually corrects this problem but may not be for everyone.

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Urgent Advice: Ask For An Urgent Gp Appointment Or Get Help From Nhs 111 If:

You think you, your child or someone you care for may have a urinary tract infection and:

• a very high temperature, or feeling hot and shivery
• a very low temperature below 36C
• are confused, drowsy or have difficulty speaking
• have not been for a pee all day
• have pain in the lower tummy or in the back, just under the ribs
• can see blood in their pee

These symptoms could mean you have a kidney infection, which can be serious if it’s not treated as it could cause .

You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.

Urinary Tract Infections In Women

UTIs are common, particularly with increasing age. Women are more likely to get a UTI than men. Nearly 1 in 3 women will have a UTI needing treatment before the age of 24.

In women, the urethra is short and straight, making it easier for germs to travel into the bladder. For some women, UTIs relate to changes in their hormonal levels. Some are more likely to get an infection during certain times in their menstrual cycle, such as just before a period or during pregnancy.

In older women, the tissues of the urethra and bladder become thinner and drier with age as well as after menopause or a hysterectomy. This can be linked to increased UTIs.

During pregnancy, the drainage system from the kidney to the bladder widens so urine does not drain as quickly. This makes it easier to get a UTI. Sometimes germs can move from the bladder to the kidney causing a kidney infection. UTIs during pregnancy can result in increased blood pressure, so it is very important to have them treated as soon as possible.

Women are more at risk of repeated UTIs if they:

• use spermicide jelly or diaphragm for contraception
• have had a new sexual partner in the last year
• had their first UTI at or before 15 years of age
• have a family history of repeated UTIs, particularly their mother
• suffer from constipation

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When To Request A Urinary Sample

This is not usually required. However, as a pharmacist, you should be aware of circumstances that would require you to send a urine sample for further investigation.

Consider sending a urine sample for patients with upper UTI and for men, children, and pregnant women with symptoms suggesting a lower UTI. And patients with increased risk factors for resistance patients > 65 years dipstick testing is not recommended in this group, due to the frequency of bacteriuria which may be incidental.

An Introduction To Bladder Infection And Menopause

Bladder infections, or cystitis, are bacterial infections which are unfortunately are all too common with the menopause. If the infection occurs elsewhere in the urinary tract, such as the urethra or kidneys, it is sometimes referred to as a Urinary Tract Infection .

The symptoms of a bladder infection or UTI can be unpleasant and uncomfortable, including cloudy and smelly urine, a burning or painful sensation when urinating, or a sensation of needing to urinate even when the bladder is empty. In some cases, you may also develop a slight temperature or fever. A bladder infection should be diagnosed by a doctor.

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Eating Diet & Nutrition

Experts dont think eating, diet, and nutrition play a role in preventing or treating bladder infections. If you have any type of UTI, talk with a health care professional about how much to drink each day to help prevent or relieve your infection.

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases and other components of the National Institutes of Health conduct and support research into many diseases and conditions.

New Solutions For Menopause

Menopause is the time in a womans life when she stops having menstrual periods and can no longer get pregnant. It results from a decline in the production of the reproductive hormones estrogen and progesterone.

Although some women sail through menopause with few or no discomforts, shifting hormone levels cause some women to experience a variety of symptoms. These can include vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, chronic urinary tract infections , and changes in urinary habits.

If youre coping with chronic menopause-related UTIs, our providers at Womens Healthcare of Princeton can provide help that goes beyond just antibiotics. We offer a range of treatment options, including some new solutions that may surprise you.

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Can Urinary Tract Infections Be Prevented Or Avoided

There are many lifestyle choices that can help you prevent UTIs. These are some of the things you can do to protect yourself from them:

• Drink plenty of water to flush out bacteria. For some people, drinking cranberry juice may also help prevent urinary tract infections. However, if youre taking warfarin, check with your doctor before using cranberry juice to prevent urinary tract infections. Your doctor may need to adjust your warfarin dose or you may need to have more frequent blood tests.
• Dont hold your urine. Urinate when you feel like you need to. Some children dont go to the bathroom often enough. If your child does this, teach him or her to go to the bathroom several times each day.
• Wipe from front to back after bowel movements. Teach your child to wipe correctly.
• Urinate after having sex to help wash away bacteria.
• Use enough lubrication during sex. Try using a small amount of lubricant before sex if youre a little dry.
• If you get urinary tract infections often, you may want to avoid using a diaphragm as a birth control method. Ask your doctor about other birth control choices.
• Avoid taking or giving your child bubble baths.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing , and dress your child in loose-fitting clothing.
• If you are uncircumcised, wash the foreskin regularly. If you have an uncircumcised boy, teach him how to wash his foreskin.

What Are The Symptoms Of Bladder Infection In Females

Bladder infection is a type of urinary tract infection caused by bacteria. Bladder infections are more common in females than males.

Symptoms of a bladder infection in females include:

• Pain or a burning sensation on urination
• Urinary urgency
• Urine that’s dark or cloudy
• Strong-smelling urine

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Are Urinary Tract Infections Contagious

No. Urinary tract infections are not contagious.

• Lower abdominal pain or pelvic pressure or pain
• Mild fever , chills, and “just not feeling well”
• Urethra : Burning with urination

Upper urinary tract infection

Symptoms develop rapidly and may or may not include the symptoms of a lower urinary tract infection.

• Fairly high fever
• Shaking chills
• Flank pain: pain in the back or side, usually on only one side at about waist level

In newborns, infants, children, and elderly people, the classic symptoms of a urinary tract infection may not be present. Other symptoms may indicate a urinary tract infection.

• Newborns: fever or hypothermia , poor feeding, jaundice
• Infants: vomiting, diarrhea, fever, poor feeding, not thriving
• Children: irritability, eating poorly, unexplained fever that doesn’t go away, loss of bowel control, loose bowels, change in urination pattern
• Elderly people: fever or hypothermia, poor appetite, lethargy, change in mental status

Pregnant women are at increased risk for a UTI. Typically, pregnant women do not have unusual or unique symptoms. If a woman is pregnant, her urine should be checked during prenatal visits because an unrecognized infection can cause pregnancy health complications.

Although most people have symptoms of a urinary tract infection, some do not.

• Normal Blood Pressure By Age

A Pharmacist Can Help With Utis

You can ask a pharmacist about treatments for a UTI. A pharmacist can:

• offer advice on things that can help you get better
• suggest the best painkiller to take
• tell you if you need to see a GP about your symptoms

Some pharmacies offer a UTI management service and can prescribe antibiotics if theyre needed.

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Your Favorite Gym Pants Are Suddenly Very Uncomfortable In The Crotch Region

Sitting around in damp, sweaty yoga pants or workout undies long after your workout creates a breeding ground for bacteria, Ross says. In the early stages, this may simply feel like irritation in your lady bits leggings or underwear that are normally comfy now suddenly drive you nuts.

Launder your gym clothes after every workout , Ross advises. Bonus: This also helps prevent other infections, like yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.

How Do Utis Affect Pregnancy

Changes in hormone levels during pregnancy raise your risk for UTIs. UTIs during pregnancy are more likely to spread to the kidneys.

If youre pregnant and have symptoms of a UTI, see your doctor or nurse right away. Your doctor will give you an antibiotic that is safe to take during pregnancy.

If left untreated, UTIs could lead to kidney infections and problems during pregnancy, including:

• Premature birth

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Signs And Symptoms Of Urinary Tract Infection In Females

Symptoms of urinary tract infection for females with a lower UTI consist of dysuria , urinary frequency, urinary urgency, and suprapubic pain .

It is also common for patients to present with hematuria because the infection can damage the lining of the urinary tract causing red blood cells to leak into the urine. You may detect hematuria on urinalysis termed microscopic hematuria – or observed visibly within the sample- termed macroscopic or gross hematuria.

When To See A Professional

If you are experiencing the early signs of a UTI, see a doctor as soon as possible. Putting off a visit to the doctor if you have symptoms of a UTI will not only prolong your discomfort, but could also lead to complications. If detected early, a UTI is usually easy to treat and has no lasting effect on your urinary tract. However, if left untreated, a UTI can also affect your bladder and kidneys.

To help rid yourself of a painful UTI, contact the Urology Specialists of the Carolinas today for an appointment. A simple examination and urine or blood test could save you a lot of trouble in the long run. With a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, you will be on the road to recovery in no time.

In addition to seeing a professional, your nutrition and lifestyle play a huge role in a happy and healthy urinary tract system. Download our Nutrition and Lifestyle Guide to learn our top tips and tricks for maintaining and achieving optimal urology health.

This content was originally published in February 2015 and was refreshed in December 2020.

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How Are Urinary Tract Infections Treated

You will need to treat a urinary tract infection. Antibiotics are medicines that kill bacteria and fight an infection. Antibiotics are typically used to treat urinary tract infections. Your healthcare provider will pick a drug that best treats the particular bacteria thats causing your infection. Some commonly used antibiotics can include:

• Nitrofurantoin.
• Doxycycline.
• Quinolones .

Its very important that you follow your healthcare providers directions for taking the medicine. Dont stop taking the antibiotic because your symptoms go away and you start feeling better. If the infection is not treated completely with the full course of antibiotics, it can return.

If you have a history of frequent urinary tract infections, you may be given a prescription for antibiotics that you would take at the first onset of symptoms. Other patients may be given antibiotics to take every day, every other day, or after sexual intercourse to prevent the infection. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best treatment option for you if you have a history of frequent UTIs.

Im Pregnant How Will A Uti Affect My Baby

If you have a UTI and it isnt treated, it may lead to a kidney infection. Kidney infections may cause early labor. Fortunately, asymptomatic bacteriuria and bladder infections are usually found and treated before the kidneys become infected. If your doctor treats a urinary tract infection early and properly, it wont hurt your baby.

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Kidney Infection Home Remedies

You can do some things at home to feel better while you have an infection:

• Drink plenty of fluids to flush out germs.
• Get extra rest.
• When you go to the bathroom, sit on the toilet instead of squatting over it, which can keep your bladder from completely emptying.
• Take a pain reliever with acetaminophen. Donât use aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen because these can raise your risk of kidney problems.
• Use a heating pad on your belly, back, or side.

What Are The Signs & Symptoms Of Utis

UTIs can cause such signs as:

• pain, burning, or a stinging sensation when peeing
• an increased urge or more frequent need to pee
• waking up at night a lot to go to the bathroom
• belly pain in the area of the bladder
• foul-smelling pee that may look cloudy or contain blood

If you have any symptoms of a UTI, you’ll need to go to a doctor right away. The sooner you begin treatment, the less uncomfortable you’ll be. Call your doctor’s office or clinic. If you can’t reach your doctor, you can visit an urgent care center or hospital emergency room. The most important thing is to take action as soon as possible.

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What Are Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms In Women

LUTS are divided into three groups:

• Problems with the storage of urine in the bladder.
• Problems passing urine.
• Problems after passing urine.

Sometimes symptoms cross into more than one of these groups. Sometimes women just have symptoms from one group. Others may have symptoms from two or all groups. Some of the LUTS women may experience are:

• Burning or stinging when you pass urine.
• Constant lower tummy ache.
• Needing to pass urine often .
• An urgent feeling of needing to empty your bladder .
• Loss of bladder control .
• Needing to get up to urinate several times in the night.
• Feeling of needing to empty your bladder even after urinating. Or, a dribble of urine after you think you have finished.
• Difficulty urinating.
• A slow stream of urine.

What Causes A Uti

According to the Mayo Clinic, urinary tract infections typically occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra. Your urinary system should keep these bacteria out, but sometimes, microscopic invaders, like E. coli, can enter your GI tract, which can then cause a urinary tract infection. But remember, when diagnosing a UTI, there are a lot of different variables to consider.

• An urge to urinate often

• Pressure in the lower belly

• Urine that smells bad or looks cloudy or reddish

• Pain in your back or side below the ribs

Knowing the symptoms of a urinary tract infection is essential, but there are many variables to consider when diagnosing a UTI.

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Effects On The Bladder And Vagina

As you grow older, you may notice some changes to your nether regions that adversely affect your intimate life. What might you expect as you approach menopause? How does the change in hormones at menopause affect your vagina, urinary tract, and sexual health, and what can you do to manage these unpleasant side effects?

The changes in our urinary tract and vagina, not to speak of generalized changes such as hot flashes, are not always a welcome introduction to the late summer and autumn of your life. Yet, for each of these symptoms, there are often several possible solutions which can reduce the impact they have.