Urinary tract infections are common and generally not a cause of major concern. Still, you should visit a doctor's office promptly for treatment. A UTI is an infection that can strike any part of a person's urinary tract: the bladder, kidneys, ureter, or urethra. Below is an overview of this condition, its primary symptoms, and the road to recovery.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a UTI center around the midsection and one's ability—or inability—to urinate. Common signs include:

• A frequent, often unbearable urge to urinate
• A burning sensation during urination
• Producing small amounts of urine or no urine at all, even when the need to do so is extreme and urgent
• Brownish, cloudy, pink, or red urine
• Urine with a strong odor
• Pelvic discomfort (primarily in women)

Causes

In most cases, UTIs are caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract via the urethra. Once in the bladder, the environment is ideal for the bacteria to multiply and flourish. UTIs tend to be more common among women, especially those who are sexually active or who have completed menopause. Specific kinds of birth control like diaphragms and spermicidal substances can also contribute to your risk so when you go to your doctor’s office, speak to them about switching.

Treatment

When you go to the doctor's office, they will give you an exam and may take a urine sample. If you have repeated UTIs, imaging tests may be ordered to rule out certain factors. There are a number of different medications a medical professional can prescribe to treat a UTI; these include Bactrim®, Septra®, Monurol®, and Keflex®.

Prevention

Even if you don't get frequent UTIs, it's always smart to implement some good preventative practices. First, whenever you go to the restroom, wipe from front to back; this prevents bacteria from the anus from entering the vagina or urethra. Urinate regularly, being sure to empty your bladder fully each time, and aim to do so immediately following sexual intercourse.

If you're dealing with a UTI, visit a doctor's office as soon as you are able. Superior Urgent Care is a family medical practice and urgent care clinic serving Keller, Texas, and the surrounding areas. No appointment is necessary. To learn more about their services, call them today at (817) 576-4050. For their hours or information on the insurance plans they accept, visit them on the web.