UTI
One Stop Family Clinic
Family Practice & Walk-In Clinic located in Murfreesboro, TN
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are extremely common, occurring in 1 out of 5 women at some point in their lifetime. At One Stop Family Clinic, located in Murfreesboro Tennessee, Board Certified Practitioner Emily Robinette provides quick and effective treatment for patients suffering from painful UTIs.
UTI Q & A
What exactly is a urinary tract infection?
Normally, the urine does not contain bacteria. However, in instances where bacteria from outside the body enters the urinary tract, it causes infection and inflammation. This is known as a urinary tract infection (UTI). The infection can involve the urethra, bladder, or even the kidneys.
What are common UTI symptoms?
Urinary tract infections don't always cause signs and symptoms but when they do, they may include:
- A strong, persistent urge to urinate
- A burning sensation when urinating
- Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
- Urine that appears cloudy
- Urine that appears red, bright pink or cola-colored — a sign of blood in the urine
- Strong-smelling urine
- Pelvic pain, in women — especially in the center of the pelvis and around the area of the pubic bone
- Mid-back pain and/or fever — a sign of possible kidney involvement & needs urgent attention.
What causes a urinary tract infection?
Urinary tract infections are caused by microorganisms—usually bacteria—that enter the urethra and bladder, causing inflammation and infection. The bacteria also may travel up the ureters and infect the kidneys. Sexually active women are more prone to UTIs than women who are not sexually active. Also, UTIs are common among menopausal women due to their decline in circulating estrogen.
How are urinary tract infections diagnosed and treated?
Emily diagnoses urinary tract infections by a urinalysis or urine culture. Antibiotics clear up most UTIs quickly.
Are there anyways to prevent UTIs?
Several preventative measures can decrease the likelihood of getting a UTI. These include:
- Drinking plenty of liquids, especially water.
- Wiping from front to back to prevent bacteria in the anal region from spreading to the vagina and urethra
- Avoiding deodorant sprays or other feminine products, such as douches and powders, in the genital area, as they can irritate the urethra.
- Diaphragms or unlubricated or spermicide-treated condoms can all contribute to bacterial growth.