Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common problem, especially in women. Call board-certified urologist Micaela Aleman, MD, at Lone Star Urology in Austin, Texas, if you develop UTI symptoms. Dr. Aleman identifies the bacteria causing your infection and prescribes the most effective treatment for fast relief. Call Lone Star Urology to schedule a consultation or request a UTI exam today via the online booking form.
A UTI develops in your urinary system, which includes your urethra, bladder, and kidneys. The kidneys produce urine, fluid that carries waste products from your body. Your bladder stores the urine until it’s full, then signals to your brain that it needs emptying. You pass urine through the urethra, a tube carrying urine from your bladder out of your body.
The bacteria causing an infection enter your body through the urethra, then gradually work their way up to your kidneys. Mild infections are easily treatable, but you could develop a more serious problem (pyelonephritis) if it spreads to your kidneys.
The most common UTI symptoms include:
Untreated UTIs could cause complications like urethral narrowing, pregnancy issues, and kidney damage.
Common UTI risk factors include:
Women are far more likely to suffer from UTIs than men. This is largely due to the female anatomy, which makes it far easier for bacteria to travel from the anus to infect the urethra.
To reduce your chances of a UTI, regularly drink plenty of water, wipe from front to back after using the toilet, avoid putting products containing perfumes and other irritants on your genitals, and empty your bladder after sex.
Diagnosing a UTI is usually straightforward. Dr. Aleman discusses your symptoms and checks your medical history. She also performs a physical exam and takes a urine sample for testing.
The UTI treatment Dr. Aleman recommends varies depending on your infection’s severity. Oral antibiotics destroy the bacteria responsible for your UTI, and you can help yourself by drinking more water, avoiding caffeine, and using a heating pad. You might need intravenous antibiotics if you have a severe infection.
Call Lone Star Urology today to arrange a UTI assessment, or use the online booking form to schedule an appointment.