What is a urinary tract infection?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when harmful bacteria enter your urinary system. UTI’s usually begin in the urethra. However, as the bacteria multiply, the infection can spread to your kidneys, ureters, or bladder.

UTIs are common and usually cause minimal discomfort. Without proper treatment, though, they can cause serious complications. If you suspect you have a urinary tract infection, take action and seek medical treatment as soon as possible. 

Does a urinary tract infection present any noticeable symptoms?

In their early stages, UTIs present very few apparent symptoms. As the bacteria multiply and the infection spreads, telltale signs include:

• A strong urge to urinate
• A burning sensation while urinating
• Cloudy urine
• Urine that’s red, bright pink, or brown
• Foul-smelling urine
• A near-constant urge to urinate

UTIs in women can also cause pelvic pain, especially in the center of the lower abdomen, near the public bone.

How are urinary tract infections diagnosed?

At AS Urology, the team offers several advanced diagnostic capabilities including:

High-resolution ultrasonography

If you regularly experience UTIs, your AS Urology provider might recommend high-resolution ultrasonography. This type of diagnostic imaging uses soundwaves to create 3D pictures of the inside of your body. It’s particularly effective at pinpointing abnormalities in the urinary tract and, in turn, UTIs.

Flexible cystoscopy

Cystoscopy is another diagnostic treatment that involves your provider using a long, thin, flexible tube with a lens at the end to look inside your urethra and bladder. The lens sends images back to a monitor in the exam room, allowing your provider to pinpoint the source of your discomfort.

Rapid onsite polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing

Rapid PCR testing is quicker and much more accurate than traditional urinalysis. As a result, it’s capable of detecting more fastidious bacteria, a microorganism that regularly triggers UTIs. This type of testing can also alert you to more serious urologic problems such as chronic kidney disease.

Antibiotic genetic testing

If your As Urology provider determines that you have a UTI, they might recommend an antibiotic genetic test. This screening measure helps your doctor assess the best course of antibiotic therapy for your individual needs.

How are urinary tract infections treated?

Most urinary tract infections respond well to prescription antibiotics. Depending on the severity of your infection and your health history, your provider might recommend trimethoprim, nitrofurantoin, ceftriaxone, or cephalexin. If you have recurrent UTIs, benefit from several rounds of low-dose antibiotics or vaginal estrogen therapy.

To schedule an appointment for a urinary tract infection at AS Urology, call the office or book a consultation online today.