What Are The Symptoms Of A Uti
Symptoms of a UTI can differ depending on what part of the urinary tract is infected.
A bladder infection usually causes symptoms that include the following:
- Burning when urinating
- The feeling that you need to pee frequently, but when you go to the toilet very little urine comes out
- Pain in the pelvic area just above the pubic bone.
Bladder infections are usually considered a simple UTI and treatment is usually with antibiotics for three to five days. Symptoms usually resolve in a couple of days.
People with an infection of the urethra may experience symptoms similar to a bladder infection in addition to itching or irritation at the end of the urethra where the pee comes out.
Symptoms of a kidney infection are usually more widespread and more severe than those of a bladder infection and may include:
- Fever or chills
- Pink or red-tinged urine
- Burning when urinating
- The feeling that you need to pee frequently, but when you go to the toilet very little urine comes out
- Pain in the pelvic area just above the pubic bone
- Moderate to severe lower back pain
- Nausea or vomiting.
What Causes Kidney Stones
Kidney stones, which are hardened or calcified deposits of certain minerals, salts, and other materials, develop in the kidneys themselves before traveling through the ureter and into the bladder, where they are ultimately passed from the body in the urine. Generally speaking, kidney stones affect men more often than women, though virtually anyone can develop a stone. There are a number of potential causes of kidney stones, as well as risk factors that make certain patients more likely to develop kidney stones. Some of the most common causes and risk factors of kidney stones include:
- Dietary factors, such as increased salt, oxalate, or calcium intake
- Certain medications
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Clindamycin & Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections are so common that nearly everyone will have one at some point in their life.Fortunately, there are several ways to treat a urinary tract infection. One of those is the prescription antibiotic clindamycin, which prevents bacteria from synthesizing essential proteins needed to multiply 1.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
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Creating Stronger Strains Of Bacteria
Over time, some species of bacteria have become resistant to traditional antibiotics. According to some research , several species of E. coli, the primary cause of UTIs, are showing increasing drug resistance.
The more a person uses an antibiotic, the greater the risk of the bacteria developing resistance. This is even more likely when a person does not take the full prescribed course of treatment.
It is essential to continue taking antibiotics until the end date that the doctor provides. Also, never share antibiotics with others.
What Causes Urinary Tract Infections
Normal urine is sterile and contains fluids, salts, and waste products. It does not contain bacteria, viruses, or fungi. A UTI occurs when germs, most often bacteria from the digestive tract, get into the opening of the urethra and start to multiply.
Most UTIs are caused by E. coli bacteria, which normally live in the colon.
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What Are Risk Factors For Urinary Tract Infections
Individuals with the following conditions are at higher risk of getting UTIs:
The following factors may promote bacterial growth in women:
- Dehydration, which can cause urine to become concentrated and allow bacteria to thrive
- Holding urine for long periods of time
- Spinal cord injuries or other nerve damage that makes the bladder emptying difficult regularly and completely
- Conditions or situations that obstruct the urine flow, such as a tumor, kidney stone, enlarged prostate, or sexual intercourse
- Diabetes and other conditions that weaken the immune system
- Pregnancy-related hormonal changes in the urinary tract, which can encourage bacteria to spread through the ureters and to the kidneys
- Certain birth control methods, such as the diaphragm and spermicidal agents
- Urinary surgery or a physical examination of the urinary tract
Older adults, children, and men can also acquire UTIs. Some factors that increase the likelihood of UTI may include:
Can Urinary Tract Infections Be Prevented
There are steps you can take to prevent a urinary tract infection from occurring in the first place. One of the biggest things you can do to promote good urinary tract healthand prevent UTIsis to stay well-hydrated.
Donât wait until youâre thirsty to drink. Sip water continuously throughout the day, especially during and after physical activity.
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How Do I Get Tested For A Uti
You have to talk with a nurse or doctor to know for sure if you have a UTI. Testing usually begins with a nurse or doctor talking with you about your medical history and your symptoms. Theyll also do a simple test, called a urinalysis: all you do is pee in a cup, and theyll test it for certain bacteria or other signs of infection.
In addition to the urinalysis, your doctor or nurse might test you for certain STDs, which can lead to UTIs or have similar symptoms.
Water Is Your Best Friend
When you first notice burning when you use the restroom, its tempting to reduce your water intake. After all, that will prevent the pain, right?
Wrong.
It seems counter-intuitive, but you need to flush out your system. You should drink plenty of water to help your body remove the E. Coli. Dont overdo it, but drink as much water as possible in those crucial first 24 hours.
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Questions To Ask Your Doctor
- Do I need any tests, such as urinalysis?
- What is the likely cause of my urinary tract infection ?
- Do I need medicine? How should I take it?
- What are the possible side effects of the medicine?
- When should I expect relief from my symptoms?
- What symptoms would indicate that my infection is getting worse? What should I do if I experience these symptoms?
- I get UTIs a lot. What can I do to prevent them?
- Do I need preventive antibiotics? If so, should I be concerned about antibiotic resistance?
- My child gets UTIs a lot. Could an anatomical problem be causing his or her UTIs?
See A Healthcare Provider
While UTIs arent usually a cause for major concern, if you dont get them treated, they can lead to more serious problems like a kidney infection. If you have a UTI, make an appointment with a healthcare provider as soon as possible. The fastest way to feel better is by taking an antibiotic to kill the bacteria causing your infection.
If going to see a provider in-person is not an option , there are plenty of telehealth services available that will allow you to set up a virtual appointment. Check out GoodRx Care for treatment of UTIs as well as many other medical conditions.
During your appointment, your provider will ask you questions about what symptoms you are experiencing and if you are prone to UTIs. You might be asked to provide a urine sample either in the office you are seen in or at a lab close to you. Lastly, your provider will prescribe you a course of antibiotics to get started on right away.
Some common antibiotics used for treating UTIs include nitrofurantoin , sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim , and ciprofloxacin . Typically, you only need to take them for 3 to 5 days, and most people start to feel relief within the first 2 to 3 days. Antibiotics can cause nausea, stomach upset, and diarrhea for many people. But, taking your dose with food can help lessen nausea and stomach upset, and taking a probiotic supplement like L. acidophilus can help with the diarrhea.
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Do I Need To See A Doctor
Yes. Painful urination can be a symptom of a more serious problem. You should tell your doctor about your symptoms and how long youve had them. Tell your doctor about any medical conditions you have, such as diabetes mellitus or AIDS, because these could affect your bodys response to infection. Tell your doctor about any known abnormality in your urinary tract, and if you are or might be pregnant. Tell your doctor if youve had any procedures or surgeries on your urinary tract. He or she also need to know if you were recently hospitalized or stayed in a nursing home.
What Are The Possible Side Effects Of Azithromycin
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reactionor a severe skin reaction .
Seek medical treatment if you have a serious drug reaction that can affect many parts of your body. Symptoms may include: skin rash, fever, swollen glands, muscle aches, severe weakness, unusual bruising, or yellowing of your skin or eyes.
- liver problemsnausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain , tiredness, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice
Older adults may be more likely to have side effects on heart rhythm, including a life-threatening fast heart rate.
Common side effects may include:
- nausea, vomiting or
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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What Antibiotics Are Used To Treat Utis
Antibiotics used to treat UTIs include:
- Beta-lactams, including penicillin and cephalosporin, such as amoxicillin, , Keflex, Duricef, Ceftin, Lorabid, Rocephin, cephalexin, Suprax, and others. Many organisms have been reported to resist some of these drugs.
- Trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole combination antibiotics, such as Bactrim DS and . Many organisms may show resistance to this type of antibiotic.
- Resistance to Cipro, Levaquin, and Floxin is developing. These should never be used to treat pregnant women or young children.
- Tetracyclines are used for mycoplasma or chlamydia infections. These should never be used to treat pregnant women or young children.
- Aminoglycosides are used with other antibiotics to treat severe UTIs.
- Macrolides are used more often to treat urinary problems caused by sexually transmitted diseases.
- Monurol , a synthetic phosphonic acid derivative, is used for acute cystitis but not in complicated UTIs.
How Are Bladder
Determining if a food irritates your bladder is a process of elimination. Not all people sensitive to bladder irritants are affected by the same foods. Your healthcare provider can help you identify bladder-irritating foods.
To test bladder discomfort by eliminating foods, you can:
- Keep a food diary to track foods that are and arent irritating.
- Remove the foods listed above from your diet for a few days.
- Once your symptoms are gone, you can begin to add foods in. Start with a small amount of one food, increasing the portion size over several days. If irritation returns after reintroducing a food, stop eating it completely. Repeat food reintroduction slowly to identify your bladder-irritating foods.
Lab tests cannot diagnose foods that cause bladder irritation. But a urologist may examine your bladder to diagnose or rule out IC.
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What Is A Uti
A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria enter the urethra and infect the urinary tract. There are many different parts of the urinary tract that can become infected, and the most common type of UTI is a bladder infection. UTIs may cause discomfort, pain, and burning sensations. They can typically be treated with antibiotics.
People of any sex or age can get a UTI, but it is much more common for women to get UTIs. You are also more likely to get a UTI if you are sexually active, pregnant, or if you have had a UTI before. Symptoms such as pain or burning when urinating, pressure in the low belly, an urge to urinate often, and fatigue and shakiness can all be signs of a UTI. Speak with your healthcare provider if you think you may have a UTI.
Should Uti Treatment Vary According To Whats Causing The Infection
Your UTI treatment may vary according to whats causing the infection. Certain UTIs, especially chronic and recurring ones, will need antibiotic treatment as opposed to simple home remedies.
If youre prescribed antibiotics to treat a UTI, a healthcare professional may choose an antibiotic thats specific to the type of bacteria thats triggering your infection.
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Why Do I Need Urinalysis
Healthcare providers order urinalysis tests for several reasons since a urine sample can provide many insights into your health. Your provider may order a urinalysis for you for one or more of the following reasons:
- As part of your routine medical exam to screen for early signs of certain health conditions.
- If youre experiencing and signs and symptoms of certain health conditions, such as diabetes or kidney disease.
- To monitor certain health conditions you’re receiving treatment for, such as diabetes or kidney disease.
- To diagnose a urinary tract infection .
- If youve been admitted to a hospital.
- As a preparatory checkup for surgery.
What Is A Urinary Tract Infection
UTIs are common infections that happen when bacteria, often from the skin or rectum, enter the urethra, and infect the urinary tract. The infections can affect several parts of the urinary tract, but the most common type is a bladder infection .
Kidney infection is another type of UTI. Theyre less common, but more serious than bladder infections.
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Don’t Be Surprised If Your Doctor Doesn’t Rush You Into Treatment
Urinary tract infections can be tricky in older age. They’re not always as easy to spot or treat as in youth. And the decades-long approach to treatment is changing. “We’ve been hasty in using antibiotics, and we’re learning there are significant consequences that can range from side effects of medication to infections with antibiotic-resistant bacteria,” says Dr. Helen Chen, a geriatrician at Harvard-affiliated Hebrew Rehabilitation Center.
Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections
Patients with three or more infections per year should be offered either continuous low-dose antibiotic prophylaxis, patient-initiated, or postcoital prophylaxis if the onset of infection is linked to sexual intercourse .7 Before a prophylactic regimen is chosen, a urine culture should be performed to determine the susceptibility of the pathogen. The duration of continuous prophylactic therapy is usually 6 months to a year. Unfortunately, within 6 months of discontinuing antibiotic prophylaxis, 40% to 60% of women develop a urinary tract infection, and prophylaxis must be resumed.20 Patient-initiated therapy at the onset of symptoms has been shown to be effective in young, healthy nonpregnant women.21 Short-course regimens have been advocated for patient-initiated therapy in compliant women with frequently recurring and symptomatic urinary tract infections. The major advantages of short-course therapy over continuous therapy are convenience and the avoidance of antibiotic toxicity symptomatic infections are not prevented, however. For postcoital prophylaxis, nitrofurantoin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, or fluoroquinolones taken within 2 hours after sexual intercourse have been shown to significantly reduce the incidence of recurrent cystitis.22, 23
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Cranberry Juice Uti Evidence
It is not uncommon to hear that cranberry juice or cranberry products prevent and treat UTIs, but unfortunately this theory is unsupported by inconsistent evidence. As University of Michigan Health states, pure cranberry juice, cranberry extract, or cranberry supplements may help prevent repeated UTIs in women, but the benefit is small.
They continue to say that there is not enough verification that cranberry juice is a viable treatment or prevention option since the research to make that conclusion is minimal.
Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy And Biopsy
In an upper GI endoscopy, a gastroenterologist, surgeon, or other trained health care professional uses an endoscope to see inside your upper GI tract. This procedure takes place at a hospital or an outpatient center.
An intravenous needle will be placed in your arm to provide a sedative. Sedatives help you stay relaxed and comfortable during the procedure. In some cases, the procedure can be performed without sedation. You will be given a liquid anesthetic to gargle or spray anesthetic on the back of your throat. The doctor will carefully feed the endoscope down your esophagus and into your stomach and duodenum. A small camera mounted on the endoscope sends a video image to a monitor, allowing close examination of the lining of your upper GI tract. The endoscope pumps air into your stomach and duodenum, making them easier to see.
The doctor may perform a biopsy with the endoscope by taking a small piece of tissue from the lining of your esophagus. You wont feel the biopsy. A pathologist examines the tissue in a lab.
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Why Is My Dog Holding Her Urine
If your dogs urine is still coming out for an abnormally long period of time, you should consult a veterinarian. This condition can occur due to a variety of factors, including constipation, dehydration, diabetes, Cushings disease , kidney failure, urinary tract infections, or bladder or urethra stones.
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How Is Pelvic Pain Treated
The treatment of pelvic pain depends on several factors, including cause, the intensity of pain and frequency of pain. Common pelvic pain treatments include:
- Medicine. Sometimes pelvic pain is treated with drugs, including antibiotics, if necessary.
- Surgery. If the pain results from a problem with one of the pelvic organs, the treatment might involve surgery or other procedures.
- Physical therapy. Your healthcare provider may recommend physical therapy to ease pelvic pain in some cases.
Living with chronic pelvic pain can be stressful and upsetting. Studies have shown that working with a trained counselor, psychologist or psychiatrist can be beneficial in many cases. Your healthcare provider can offer more information about various treatments for pelvic pain.
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