A urinary tract infection (commonly called a UTI) occurs when any part of your urinary system becomes infected. It encompasses your bladder, kidneys, urethra and ureters. UTIs can affect anyone, but they are more prevalent in women.
UTIs involving the bladder or urethra can cause significant discomfort and pain. Fortunately, antibiotics treatment can help resolve these infections typically within a few days. However, if left untreated, a UTI can escalate into a more adverse condition, specifically if it spreads to the kidneys and enters the bloodstream.
It is essential to recognise the symptoms of a UTI and seek appropriate medical attention to prevent complications and ensure a swift recovery.
Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) can manifest as follows:
- Experiencing discomfort or a burning sensation while urinating is a common symptom of a UTI.
- If you find yourself needing to urinate more often than usual, it could indicate a UTI.
- Waking up frequently during the night to urinate is another possible symptom of a UTI.
- Feeling the need to urinate suddenly or more urgently than usual is characteristic of a UTI.
- If your urine appears cloudy, it could be a sign of a UTI.
- Detecting blood in your urine is a concerning symptom that warrants attention, as it may indicate a UTI.
- Pain in the lower abdomen or back, particularly below the ribs, can be a UTI symptom.
- Running a high temperature or experiencing chills without an apparent cause may be associated with a UTI.
- A body temperature below 36°C can also be due to a UTI.
Further, changes in urine colour or odour may occur. If dark or foul-smelling urine is your sole symptom, it could be due to inadequate hydration.
Types of UTIs
There are several types of urinary tract infections (UTIs), which include:
- Cystitis: An infection primarily affecting the bladder and is the most prevalent form of lower urinary tract infection.
- Urethritis: Urethritis is an infection specifically targeting the urethra.
- Pyelonephritis: This type of infection occurs in the kidney.
Lower UTIs, affecting the urethra and bladder, are more commonly encountered than upper UTIs, which involve the kidneys and ureters.
Upper UTIs can be particularly concerning if not promptly treated, as they can cause kidney damage or even spread to the bloodstream.
UTI Management
When a gynaecologist suspects a urinary tract infection (UTI), they may conduct a urine test, although this step is not always necessary.
In addition, a skilled gynaecologist might:
- Guide self-care and recommend taking a painkiller.
- Issue a prescription for a brief course of antibiotics.
- Offer an antibiotic prescription, but advise waiting 48 hours before initiating treatment in case symptoms resolve spontaneously.
Remember, it is crucial to complete the entire course of medication prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
When to Consult a Gynaecologist?
It is essential to seek advice from a gynaecologist in the following situations:
- If you experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) for the first time.
- If your child shows UTI symptoms.
- If you are a man experiencing symptoms of a UTI.
- If you are pregnant and experiencing UTI symptoms.
- If you are caring for an older, frail person who may be exhibiting symptoms of a UTI.
- If you experience UTI symptoms after surgery.
- If your symptoms worsen or fail to improve within two days.
- If your symptoms recur after receiving treatment.
You can book an appointment with a gynaecologist when facing these concerns to ensure timely and appropriate care for your health and well-being.
How to Deal with Recurrent UTIs?
Experiencing recurrent UTIs can be frustrating and uncomfortable. If you find yourself facing a UTI comeback shortly after treatment or experiencing two UTIs within six months, consulting a gynaecologist in London is essential. Here are some potential treatment options they may explore:
- Your gynaecologist might opt for a different antibiotic regimen to combat the recurrence of UTIs. This approach aims to target the bacteria causing the infection more effectively.
- In some cases, your gynaecologist may recommend consuming a low-dose antibiotic regimen for an extended period, up to six months. This method helps prevent the recurrence of UTIs by keeping bacterial levels in check over time.
- For women who have reached menopause, a gynaecologist may prescribe a vaginal cream containing oestrogen. This hormone can help restore vaginal tissue health, reducing the risk of UTIs.
- If recurrent UTIs persist despite initial treatments, your gynaecologist may refer you to a specialist for further evaluation and tailored treatment options. Specialists can conduct comprehensive tests to identify underlying causes and offer more targeted therapies.
It’s crucial to address recurrent UTIs promptly to prevent complications and improve your overall quality of life. By exploring the aforementioned urinary tract infection treatment in London, you can work towards managing and preventing future UTI occurrences.
Can you treat Chronic UTIs effectively?
For some individuals, UTI symptoms persist despite treatment attempts with short-term antibiotics, and conventional urine tests fail to indicate an infection.
This persistence could signal a chronic (long-term) UTI, often triggered by bacteria infiltrating the bladder lining.
Diagnosing chronic UTIs proves challenging since urine tests may not consistently detect the infection, and symptoms can mimic those of other conditions.
Treatment for chronic UTIs typically involves extended courses of antibiotics.
The impact of chronic UTIs on one’s quality of life can be significant. If you continue to experience symptoms despite UTI treatment, consult with your private gynaecologist in London about the possibility of chronic UTIs and request a referral to a specialist for further evaluation and management.
Self-Care Tips for Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
To alleviate symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI), you can take the following steps:
- Take paracetamol up to four times a day to reduce pain and fever. For children, liquid paracetamol is suitable.
- Rest and ensure you drink enough fluids to pass pale urine regularly throughout the day.
- It’s advisable to refrain from having sex while experiencing UTI symptoms.
Additionally, some individuals choose cystitis sachets or consume cranberry drinks and products daily to prevent UTIs. While this preventive measure may help some, there is no evidence to suggest that it helps alleviate symptoms or treat an ongoing UTI.
How Can Pharmacists Assist You with UTI Treatment?
Pharmacists are valuable resources when it comes to dealing with UTIs. You can consult a pharmacist regarding treatments for a UTI. They can:
- Provide advice on actions to improve your condition.
- Recommend the most effective pain relief options.
- Offer suitable treatment options similar to those prescribed by a gynaecologist.
- Assess if your symptoms require a visit to the gynaecology clinic for further evaluation.
Factors Contributing to Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) typically originate from bacteria stemming from faecal matter entering the urinary tract.
These bacteria gain entry through the urethra, the tube responsible for expelling urine from the body.
Notably, women possess a shorter urethra compared to men, rendering them more susceptible to bacterial infiltration into the bladder or kidneys, thus leading to infection.
Several factors heighten the risk of bacterial entry into the bladder:
Engaging in sexual intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, increasing the likelihood of infection.
- Pregnancy alters the urinary tract environment, making women more prone to UTIs during this time.
- Conditions such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate in men can obstruct the urinary tract, facilitating bacterial accumulation and infection.
- The inability to fully empty the bladder, often associated with constipation in children or an enlarged prostate in men, creates an environment conducive to bacterial growth.
- The presence of urinary catheters, used to drain urine from the bladder, increases the risk of bacterial colonisation and subsequent infection.
- Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with diabetes or undergoing chemotherapy, are more susceptible to UTIs due to compromised defences against bacterial invasion.
- Inadequate fluid intake can decrease urinary flow, promoting bacterial growth and increasing the risk of UTIs.
- Failing to maintain personal hygiene and dryness in the genital area can create an environment conducive to bacterial proliferation, heightening the risk of UTIs.
Diagnosing Urinary Tract Infections
If you suspect you’re dealing with a urinary tract infection, connect with your gynaecologist. Discuss your symptoms and medical history, and undergo a physical examination for a precise diagnosis.
Your gynaecologist may prescribe antibiotics and manage your condition based on your initial consultation. They may recommend waiting 48 hours before beginning antibiotics to observe if your symptoms resolve without medication.
Confirmation of a UTI typically involves:
- Analyse a urine sample to detect bacteria and white blood cells (WBCs).
- Conduct a urine culture that involves growing bacteria and yeast from a urine sample. It helps identify harmful bacteria and determine the most effective medication for treatment.
For those experiencing recurrent UTIs, further investigations may be necessary:
- Ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans to generate images of the urinary tract.
- Cystoscopy, where a slender tube with a camera is inserted through the urethra into the bladder for visual inspection.
You can schedule an appointment at Top Gynaecologists Clinic if additional tests or scans are required. They can facilitate swift access to further diagnostics and, if necessary, develop a comprehensive treatment plan to expedite your journey back to optimal health.
How To Prevent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)?
Several proactive measures you can take to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) or reduce their recurrence.
Do:
✅Wipe from front to back after using the toilet.
✅Maintain cleanliness and dryness in the genital area.
✅Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, to ensure regular urination throughout the day and avoid feeling thirsty.
✅Clean the skin around the vagina with water before and after sexual activity.
✅Urinate as soon as possible after sexual intercourse.
✅Change nappies or incontinence pads if they become soiled.
Don’t:
❌Avoid using scented soap, as it can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the genital area.
❌Refrain from holding your urine when you feel the urge to go.
❌Take your time when urinating to empty your bladder fully.
❌Avoid wearing tight synthetic underwear, such as nylon, which can create a moist environment, helping bacterial growth.
❌Limit alcoholic drinks, as they may irritate the bladder.
❌Reduce consumption of sugary foods and drinks, as they can promote bacterial growth.
❌Choose non-spermicidal lube or consider alternative contraception methods instead of using condoms, diaphragms, or caps with spermicidal lube, as these can increase the risk of UTIs.
Alternate Measures to Prevent Recurrent UTIs
If you find yourself repeatedly experiencing bladder infections (cystitis), there are alternative approaches that may help reduce the likelihood of recurrence:
- Consider incorporating D-mannose into your daily routine. D-mannose, a type of sugar, is available in powder or tablet form and has shown promise in preventing UTIs when taken regularly.
- Another option is to use cranberry products, such as juice, tablets, or capsules, daily. Cranberry have UTI-preventive properties.
It’s essential to consult with your doctor, especially if you’re pregnant, before starting any new regimen. Remember that both D-mannose and cranberry products may contain high levels of sugar.
If you’re taking warfarin, it’s advisable to avoid cranberry products due to probable interactions
