Urinary tract infections are one the most common reasons for doctor visits.  The urinary tract consists of the urethra, bladder, and kidneys.  UTI’s are more common in women, because the urethra is short and close to the vagina and rectum.  During her lifetime, a woman has a 6/10 risk of developing at least one urinary tract infection.  Given that UTI’s are so common, it is important to know the signs and symptoms, associated risk factors, and prevention and treatment measures.   
 
The most common symptoms of a bladder infection include pain during urination and increased frequency.  Less often, you may experience increased urge to urinate but make less urine, bad smelling urine, abdominal pain, and bloody urine.  If neglected, bladder infections can spread to the kidneys, which is a more serious infection.  Signs of kidney infection include back pain, fever, chills, and nausea.  These infections need immediate attention, especially if you are pregnant. 

Urinary tract infections should be treated with antibiotics.  Over the counter medications, such as pyridium, are for pain relief only and do not treat the infection.  If you are experiencing symptoms of a urinary tract infection, call your physician’s office.  Because 90% of bladder infections are caused by E. coli, your physician may call in an antibiotic prescription without a visit.  However, to determine the bacteria causing the infection and it’s susceptibility to antibiotics, a urine specimen must be sent to a lab.  Bacteria can become resistant to antibiotics, so it is important to call your physician if the symptoms are not resolving.

Treatment is half the battle, but understanding your risks for infection is key to avoiding UTI’s.  Factors associated with bladder infections are frequent sexual activity, diaphragm and spermicide use, incomplete bladder emptying, and poor hygiene.  Some medical conditions associated with bladder infections include pregnancy, diabetes, sickle cell trait, and kidney stones.  Postmenopausal women may experience more frequent UTI’s due to low estrogen levels.

In order to prevent a urinary tract infection, consider the following tips:

- Drink at least eight 8oz glasses of water a day
- Drink cranberry juice when you suspect a UTI to increase the acidity of your urine
- Go to the bathroom frequently and don’t hold your urine for long periods
- Urinate before and after sex
- Wipe from front to back

by:  Gweneth Lazenby, M.D.

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