Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Your urinary system plays a key role in keeping your body healthy. It filters waste through your kidneys and flushes it out as urine, using a connected network of organs comprised of the:

• Ureters– thin tubes that carry urine from your kidneys to your bladder. Each kidney has its own ureter.
• Bladder– a muscular sac in your lower abdomen that stores urine until you’re ready to go to the bathroom.
• Urethra– the small tube that carries urine from your bladder out of your body when you urinate.

When bacteria enter and disrupt this system, a urinary tract infection, or UTI, can occur.

UTIs are one of the most common types of infections, especially among women. They’re not only uncomfortable but can also become serious if left untreated.

Normally, urine travels through the urinary system without any bacteria.

However, once introduced, bacteria can multiply and cause inflammation and infection.

The type of UTI you have depends on where the infection is located:

• Urethritis– infection in the urethra
• Cystitis– infection in the bladder
• Pyelonephritis– infection that spreads to one or both kidneys

The majority of UTIs are caused by bacteria, with E. coli (Escherichia coli) being the most common.

While E. coli normally lives harmlessly in your intestines, it can become problematic if it reaches your urinary tract. Once there, it can adhere to the lining of the urethra or bladder, triggering an infection.

Other, less common bacteria, fungi, or viruses may also cause UTIs, especially in people with weakened immune systems or those who use urinary catheters.

UTIs can affect anyone, but some people are more likely to get them. Some of the most common risk factors are:

• Being female. Women are more likely to get UTIs due to a shorter urethra, which gives bacteria easier access to the bladder.
• Sexual activity. Intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract.
• Aging. Risk increases with age due to hormonal changes that affect urinary tissue health, especially in post-menopausal women.
• Health conditions. Diabetes, kidney stones, and conditions that weaken the immune system can increase the likelihood of infections.
• Hygiene practices. Improper wiping or infrequent changing of pads or liners may contribute to infections.
• Urinary catheter use. Long-term or frequent use of catheters significantly increases UTI risk.
• Certain contraceptives. Diaphragms and spermicides can alter the vaginal environment, creating conditions where UTIs are more likely to occur.

UTI symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. The most common signs of a lower UTI include:

• Burning or pain when urinating, called dysuria
• Frequent urination in small amounts
• A strong, persistent urge to urinate, even when the bladder is nearly empty
• Cloudy, foul-smelling urine
• Blood in the urine, called hematuria
• Pressure or cramping in the lower abdomen or pelvis

A UTI that travels beyond the bladder and reaches the kidneys can become a medical emergency. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek care right away:

• High fever, especially over 101°F
• Chills or shaking
• Sharp pain in the sides or lower back, known as flank pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Confusion, especially in older adults

These signs may indicate a kidney infection or a complicated UTI, which can lead to more serious issues if not treated quickly.

To confirm a UTI, your doctor will:

• Ask about your symptoms and medical history
• Perform a physical exam, especially if symptoms are unclear
• Order a urinalysis to check for white blood cells, bacteria, or blood in the urine
• Possibly conduct a urine culture to identify the exact type of bacteria and choose the most effective antibiotic

In cases of frequent infections or complications, additional tests may be done to look for underlying causes, including:

• Ultrasound
• CT scan
• Cystoscopy

Most UTIs are treated effectively with a short course of oral antibiotics.

The type of antibiotic prescribed depends on the severity of the infection. Commonly prescribed antibiotics include:

• Nitrofurantoin, often used for uncomplicated bladder infections
• Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim)
• Cephalosporins, such as cephalexin
• Fosfomycin as a one-time dose option for some patients
• Doxycycline in specific cases

For more serious or complicated infections, fluoroquinolones such as ciprofloxacin, or IV antibiotics may be necessary.

If you’ve had a UTI before, there are several things you can do to lower your risk of recurrence:

• Wipe front to back after using the bathroom to prevent spreading bacteria from the rectal area
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day to flush out bacteria
• Don’t hold in urine, but go when you feel the urge
• Urinate before and after sex to help flush out bacteria introduced during intercourse
• Avoid irritating products like douches, powders, and sprays
• Wear breathable fabrics, such as cotton underwear

If you experience frequent UTIs, your doctor may recommend low-dose antibiotics taken preventively or explore hormone-based treatments if you are post-menopausal.

1. Can men get UTIs?

Yes, although they’re less common. UTIs in men are more likely to involve the upper urinary tract and are often linked to issues like an enlarged prostate, kidney stones, or catheter use. They often require more extensive evaluation and treatment to prevent complications or recurrence.

2. Can a UTI go away without antibiotics?

Some mild infections may clear on their own, but treatment is usually recommended. Delaying antibiotics can lead to complications, especially if symptoms worsen or spread to the kidneys.

3. How long will it take before I start to feel better after starting treatment?

For uncomplicated UTIs, you should start to feel relief within one to two days after beginning antibiotics. Always complete the entire prescription, even if you feel well, to prevent the recurrence of symptoms or the development of antibiotic resistance.

All of our providers treat UTIs.