UTI Specialist

What causes a UTI?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) stem from bacterial infections in your urinary tract, or from sexually transmitted diseases. The infection, medically known as pyelonephritis, can impact your bladder, kidneys, ureters, or urethra (or a combination of these parts).

A UTI can stem from:

• Being overweight
• Going through menopause
• Having kidney stones
• A prior history of UTIs
• Having an enlarged prostate
• Using a diaphragm or spermicide for birth control

Women are far more likely to suffer from UTIs, although men can certainly get them too.

Any of these traits can also increase your chances of having a bladder infection (cystitis) possibly at the same time as a UTI.  

Can I tell if I have a UTI?

Typically, yes. While UTIs aren’t usually a medical concern or anything dangerous, they can certainly cause unbearable symptoms and may have the potential for worsening to severe illness if left untreated.

Common signs of a UTI include:

• Strong, persistent urge to urinate
• Burning sensation while urinating
• Passing small amounts of urine frequently
• Cloudy or reddish urine
• Strong-smelling urine

With UTIs, it’s also common to experience unexplained pelvic pain, particularly around your pubic bone region.

How is a UTI treated?

Your UTI treatment plan depends on what’s causing it and the severity of your symptoms. For instance, if your UTI stems from using a diaphragm for birth control, it might be time to consider changing to a different method.

Because UTIs often come from bacteria, it’s common to need a course of antibiotics. If Dr. Alykhan does prescribe antibiotics, make sure you finish the medication, even if your symptoms improve.

You could even benefit from:

• Drinking plenty of water
• Applying a heating pad
• Avoiding irritating foods and drinks, including caffeine
• Going to the restroom when needed to avoid “holding it in”

While rare, if left untreated, a UTI or bladder infection can spread up into your kidneys. In severe cases, this can lead to sepsis, which is an infection that winds up in your bloodstream and affects other vital organs.

That's why it’s essential to have a urinalysis and start treatment at the first warning sign of a UTI. If you suffer from frequent UTIs or related bladder infections, let Dr. Alykhan know. He can help you find a lasting treatment solution that works for your needs.

If you’re experiencing discomfort while urinating, visit Loudoun Walk In Medical Center for a UTI screening visit.