How to Tell if You Have a Urinary Tract Infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of your urinary system, which consists of the bladder, ureters, kidneys, and urethra. Although everyone is susceptible to the condition, UTIs are especially common in women, babies, and older adults. This urology condition can be serious if left untreated, but usually is not a cause for concern if treated promptly. Ensure you get quick medical attention for treatment by a specialist, such as Richard Garden, M.D., Urologist at Bergen Medical Associates.

Many urology conditions can have similar symptoms. So, how does a patient know if they have a UTI or something else? Here, Bergen Medical Associates details urinary tract infection symptoms and the importance of an accurate diagnosis.

Female patient hunched over in pain due to UTI What Causes UTIs?

UTIs develop when bacteria enter through the urethra and infect the bladder. In some cases, the infection can travel from the bladder, through the ureters, and to the kidneys. UTIs most commonly occur because of poor hygiene. Bacteria may also enter the urethra during sexual activity, although UTIs are not considered a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

UTIs are more prominent in women than men because of the female anatomy. Women have shorter urethras than men, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. Pregnancy is another UTI risk factor. The bacteria in the urinary tract can change because of pregnancy hormones, making UTIs more likely. Additionally, after menopause, estrogen levels decline, which can cause changes in the urinary tract that increase the risk of UTIs.

Other risk factors include:

  • Age: Older adults and young children are more likely to get UTIs.
  • Other conditions: Conditions such as urinary incontinence, enlarged prostate, and a history of UTIs increase a person’s chance of developing the infection.
  • Urinary catheter use:Using a urinary catheter is a significant risk factor for UTIs.
  • Kidney transplants:UTIs are common after kidney transplants, often due to immunosuppressive drugs and vesicoureteral reflux (flow of urine from the bladder back up the ureters).

Urinary Tract Infection Symptoms

UTI symptoms can vary, depending on where the infection is occurring. Generally, men and women experience similar symptoms when they have a UTI. The most common symptoms of a UTI are:

  • Pain or burning sensation when urinating
  • Frequent urge to urinate more often than normal, even though little comes out
  • Urine that produces an unpleasant smell
  • Cloudy or dark urine
  • Blood in urine
  • Feeling tired, shaky, confused, or weak

If the infection has reached the kidney, patients will most often experience the following symptoms:

  • Pressure or pain in the lower abdomen or back
  • Vomiting and nausea
  • Chills and fever

Both men and women may experience pain or burning when urinating, or pain below the stomach. Women may also experience pelvic pain, especially around the pubic bone. Men may experience rectal pain.

UTI Prevention

Men and women can reduce their risk of developing a UTI by implementing the following habits:

  • Staying hydrated: Drinking lots of water helps dilute bacteria and flush it out of the body.
  • Emptying the bladder: Urinating frequently prevents bacteria from sitting in urine and multiplying. Men and women should always empty their bladders after sexual activity.
  • Good hygiene:Wiping front to back after using the bathroom is recommended to prevent bacteria from entering the urethra.
  • Underwear:Cotton underwear allows air to flow and keeps areas dry.
  • Showering:Take showers instead of baths.
  • Avoid spermicidal jelly:Spermicidal jelly kills normal vaginal bacteria that help prevent colonization by pathogenic bacteria.

UTI Treatment at Bergen Medical Associates

Treating a UTI promptly is crucial. Ignoring urinary tract infection symptoms can lead to several severe consequences, such as permanent kidney damage. Patients who experience UTI symptoms should consult a medical professional right away for proper care and treatment.

If you believe you or a loved one has a UTI, turn to the urology experts at Bergen Medical Associates. Our team of board-certified physicians, nurses, and highly trained staff provide comprehensive care to patients throughout New Jersey showing UTI symptoms. Contact us to learn more about how to tell if you have a UTI and the care offered by our dedicated team.

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