Urinary Tract Infections: Causes and Treatment Options

Fifty percent of women will experience a urinary tract infection at some point in life. These bacterial infections that get into your bladder affect the urethra and the most severe conditions will affect your kidneys. With advanced technology for the infections' diagnosis and treatment,Oak Lawn urinary tract infection experts at Chicago Center for Women's Health will help prevent serious health complications. Without treatment, you will experience pelvic pain and painful urination with blood in your urine. Though it is advisable to drink more water to flush out the germs and take over-the-counter pain relievers, it is recommended you visit a urogynecologist when your symptoms persist and get out of control.

What causes UTI?

A urinary tract infection occurs when microbes find their way inside your urinary tract, overwhelming your body's natural defenses. Once the infection enters your urinary system, it multiplies and proliferates, then moves into your bladder, eventually getting to your kidneys.

Can a UTI heal on its own?

A mild tract infection can get better in some cases without treatment, but in most cases the disorders do not heal independently, which is why your doctor will recommend an antibiotic. When left untreated, the UTI will travel through your body and can be fatal.

Are all UTIs sexually related?

No. though thrusting during intercourse will introduce the bacteria in your urethra, increasing your risk of getting a UTI, the infection cannot be passed from one partner to another. Other non-sexual causes of UTI are:

• Holding urine for too long
• Glucose levels. A sugary diet will spike your blood sugar levels, forcing your kidneys to release the sugars in your urine.
• Dehydration
• Pregnancy

What signs should I watch for when I suspect UTI?

Urogynecologists recommend that you see your doctor when you start experiencing bladder or UTI symptoms. You are also advised to seek expert attention when you get frequent infections. UTI symptoms include:

• Inability to empty your bladder
• Strong-scented urine
• Painful urination or a burning sensation when passing urine
• Sudden, frequent, and intense urge to urinate
• Cloudy urine

How are UTIs treated?

When you go to your doctor with a UTI, he will suggest some antibiotics and advise you to take the whole course, even when your symptoms have cleared up, to help destroy the bacteria. Recurrent UTI is an indication of structural abnormality that makes it difficult for your body to flush out harmful bacteria. In such a case, your doctor will do a diagnostic examination to look inside your bladder and check for corrective issues to be sorted out to prevent potential high-risk infections.

What home remedies can help prevent UTI?

Apart from drinking lots of water and seeing a health professional on the onset of the infection symptoms, your urogynecologist will also advise you to wipe from the front to the back to prevent transferring germs from the anus to the urethra.

Urinary tract infections are common in most women and you can manage them with home-based remedies. However, do not shy away from seeing an expert when the infections are regular. Free yourself from severe health complications caused by UTI. Book an appointment with professionals at Chicago Center for Women's Health or call for more information.