Overview
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of your urinary system - kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract (bladder and urethra).
Common Symptoms
- Strong, persistent urge to urinate
- Burning sensation when urinating
- Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Pelvic pain (in women)
- Rectal pain (in men)
- Blood in urine (in some cases)
Risk Factors
- Female anatomy (shorter urethra)
- Sexual activity
- Menopause
- Urinary tract abnormalities
- Suppressed immune system
- Catheter use
- Recent urinary procedure
Diagnosis
- Urinalysis: Checks for white blood cells, red blood cells, and bacteria
- Urine culture: Identifies the specific bacteria causing the infection
- Imaging: CT scan or ultrasound for recurrent UTIs
- Cystoscopy: Examining the bladder with a scope for recurrent cases
Treatment
Antibiotics (Primary Treatment)
- Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid): 5-7 day course
- Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim): 3-day course
- Fosfomycin (Monurol): Single dose
- Ciprofloxacin: For complicated infections
Pain Relief
- Phenazopyridine (Azo): Relieves burning and urgency
- Note: This only treats symptoms, not the infection
Home Remedies (Supportive)
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods
- Apply heating pad to abdomen
- Cranberry products (may help prevent, not treat)
Prevention
- Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily
- Urinate when needed (do not hold it)
- Wipe front to back
- Urinate after sexual activity
- Avoid irritating feminine products
- Consider probiotics