Urinary Tract Infection
What to Know About UTIs
Urinary tract infections (UTI) are extremely common among women, defined by an infection involving any part of the urinary system – specifically the urethra, bladder or ureters. Most commonly, though, UTI’s exist in the bladder and urethra – the lower urinary tract. UTI’s are a common condition that we see among our patients, and can be treated in a simple, timely manner.
Contributing Factors of a Urinary Tract Infection
Bacteria is the primary cause of a urinary tract infection, especially when it enters through the urinary tract via the urethra. When this happens, the bacteria are able to multiply, and eventually grow into an infection inside of the urinary tract. When the UTI resides in the bladder, it’s referred to as cystitis. Cystitis is usually caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli), but other bacteria could be to blame as well.
Although every woman is at risk for the infection due to her anatomy, cystitis could also be caused by sexual intercourse. Urethritis occurs when the UTI is found in the urethra, and occurs when bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract spreads from the anus to the urethra. Sexually transmitted diseases such as herpes, chlamydia and gonorrhea can also cause urethritis, since the urethra is in such close proximity to the vagina.
Urinary Tract Infection Symptoms
A woman may not always experience symptoms of a UTI. It’s also important to note that if she does experience symptoms, they may vary, depending on what part the UTI has affected. Signs and symptoms of a UTI include, but are not limited to:
- A persistent urge to urinate
- Urinating frequently
- Urinating in small amounts
- Passing urine that contains blood, characterized by a bright red or pink coloring
- Passing urine that has a strong odor
- Pelvic pain
- A burning sensation while urinating
Urinary Tract Infections Diagnosis in New Jersey
If you are feeling any symptoms of a UTI, a physician from our staff will ask for a urine sample – a key item that will help us further test for the infection. The urine sample will be analyzed for white and red blood cells, in addition to bacteria. In some events, the lab analysis of the urine is followed by a urine culture; the urine culture reveals which bacteria are causing the infection, so that the proper medications can be administered accordingly. If you are experiencing chronic UTI’s, a physician will perform an ultra sound or computerized tomography (CT) scan to determine whether or not there is an abnormality in your urinary tract.
Urinary Tract Infection Treatment Options in Livingston, NJ
Treatment options vary, depending on whether or not the UTI is simple, frequent or severe. In all cases, medications are prescribed to ease the the symptoms and effectively get rid of the bacteria that has caused the UTI. For a simple UTI infection, common drugs to treat the infection include trimethoprim, sulfamethoxazole and fosfomycin. Frequent UTI infections may require specific treatment plans, such as a low dose of antibiotics for six months, or vaginal estrogen therapy for those who are postmenopausal. For severe UTI infections, circulatory antibiotics may need to be given.
Gynecologist in Livingston, New Jersey
For those women experiencing symptoms of a UTI, do not hesitate to call our office at 973-968-4611, or fill out a contact form on our website. We look forward to hearing from you, and will assist you in treating your UTI as soon as possible.