Urinary tract infection, or UTI, is the infection of the urinary tract by some infectious organisms and can affect the kidneys, bladder, as well as the tubes connected to them. There are several types of UTIs and anyone can get them. However, they are most common in women. These infections can inflict a lot of pain and discomfort, but they normally pass within some days. Likewise, UTIs can easily be treated with antibiotics. If you are looking for treatment for a urinary tract infection in San Diego, you have come to the right place! If you are currently experiencing a urinary tract infection in San Diego, give us a call today to schedule your appointment!

Everything You Need to Know About Urinary Tract Infections San Diego

Here, we look at several facts about urinary tract infections that you should know in order to be safe from the pain and discomfort that come with them.

Types and Causes of Urinary Tract Infections

To begin with, there are three main types of UTI, which are:

• Cystitis – Bladder infection
• Urethritis – Urethra infection
• Pyelonephritis – Kidneys infection

UTIs occur as a result of the infection of the urinary tract, usually by bacteria. Often times, bacteria from the gut find their way into the urinary tract through the urethra. This could happen during sexual intercourse or when wiping your bottom. This is the main reason why you’re advised to always wipe your bottom from front to back after you’ve used the bathroom.

Furthermore, there are several factors that can elevate your risk of contracting a Urinary Tract Infection. They include:

• Diabetes
• An unstable immune system
• Conditions that block the urinary tract, like kidney stones
• A urinary catheter
• Difficulty emptying the bladder completely
• Using a spermicide-coated condom or contraceptive diaphragm
• An enlarged prostate gland in males

It is worth noting that women are more predisposed to Urinary Tract Infections because their urethra is shorter compared to men’s and is much closer to their anus.

Symptoms of UTIs

Here are the signs to look out for to know if you have a UTI:

• A burning sensation when urinating
• Intense urge to urinate, but very little urine comes out when you try to do so.
• Pain in your back and lower abdomen
• Bloody, or weird-smelling urine
• Fatigue
• Fever

Treatment for UTIs

Urinary Tract Infections are usually treated with a course of antibiotics. In many cases, women are given a 3-day course of antibiotics, in the form of tablets or capsules. On the other hand, pregnant women, men, and individuals with severe symptoms may be given a somewhat longer course.

UTI symptoms usually pass within 3-5 days after commencing treatment. Nonetheless, it is imperative that you finish the whole dose of medication that you have been prescribed even if you feel you have recovered.

You may also take over-the-counter pain relievers, like paracetamol, to help ease pain. You’re also advised to drink lots of fluids to facilitate recovery. If you don’t see any positive improvements after using the prescribed medication, it’s advisable to return to your doctor, who will advise you on the next course of action.

Final Thoughts

UTIs are bacteria-caused infections of the bladder, kidneys, and the Urethra. They can affect anyone regardless of age, but are more common in women. Urinary Tract Infections are normally treated through a short-term or long-term course of antibiotics depending on the severity of the infection. Call us today if you are experiencing a urinary tract infection in San Diego!