Transcript Do I Have A Urinary Tract Infection?

Do I Have A Urinary Tract
Infection?
Women First Health Center
Drs. Sylvester, Youngren, Lo and Sansobrino
Created by Megan Blomeyer, MS-IV, St. George’s University
Image Courtesy of: Nutrivize. When A Urinary Tract Infection Goes Rogue. 23 March 2012. Web. 31 August 2013. <http://nutrivize.com/blog/womens-health/when-a-urinary-tract-infection-goes-rogue/>.
Development
Bacteria naturally live on the skin near
the anus and in the vagina.
These bacteria can enter the lower
urinary tract through the urethra (an
external opening from which urine is
released) and can travel to the bladder
creating a bladder infection called
cystitis.
From the bladder, the bacteria can
move to the upper urinary tract, made
up of the ureters and kidneys, to cause
a more severe illness known as
pyelonephritis.
Causes
Women are more prone to urinary tract infections or UTIs because
they have a shorter urethra than men.
In women, the urethral opening is in front of the vagina. This puts
women at greater risk of a UTI following sexual intercourse when
bacteria present on the fingers, devices or the penis travel from the
vagina into the urethra. This is especially true when women have
intercourse for the first time, more frequently than they are
accustomed to or when they use spermicides or diaphragms.
Improper emptying of the bladder due to a stone in the kidney,
ureters or bladder or problems releasing urine can also lead to a
bladder infection.
Risk Factors
Urinary tract abnormalities that prevent adequate release or
back up of urine
Prior urinary tract infection
Diabetes mellitus
Obesity
Multiple births
Menopause
Pregnancy
Symptoms of a
Bladder Infection
Strong urge to urinate that can not be delayed
Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
A sharp or burning pain while urinating
Soreness in the lower abdomen
Cloudy or odorous urine
Red, bright pink or Coke-colored urine
Symptoms of a Kidney
Infection
In addition to the previously listed symptoms, a
kidney infection presents with:
Chills
Fever
Nausea and/or vomiting
Back and/or side pain
A kidney infection is very serious and must be treated
right away. Contact your doctor if you have any of
these symptoms.
Diagnosis
A urine sample to look for bacteria or signs of infection.
A urine culture to determine which antibiotic(s) destroys the
bacteria the best.
If a urinary tract abnormality is suspected, an ultrasound or CT
scan may be conducted.
Patients with recurrent UTIs may be examined with a scope
through the urethra and into the bladder to look for problems in
these organs.
Treatment
Most bladder infections can be treated at home with
antibiotics. Your symptoms should resolve in a few
days, but it is very important to finish all your
medication.
If the infection involves the kidney or if you have more
serious bladder infection, you may need to be
hospitalized for intravenous antibiotics which are
given through a tube placed in your vein.
Lifestyle Modifications and Home
Remedies
Until your infection resolves, avoid drinks that irritate
the bladder such as coffee, alcohol and soft drinks
with citrus juices or caffeine.
Drink plenty of fluids to flush out the bacteria.
Place a warm heating pad on your abdomen to
minimize bladder pressure and discomfort.
Complications
Permanent kidney damage if the infection is not
treated properly
Increased risk of pregnant women delivering
premature or low birth weight infants
Prevention
Wipe from front to back after urinating or a bowel
movement.
Wash the skin around the vagina and anus (opening
of the rectum on the outside of the body).
Flush bacteria out of your urinary system by drinking
plenty of fluids. Unsweetened cranberry juice has
also been shown to decrease the risk of developing a
UTI.
Other Preventative Measures
Empty your bladder every 2-3 hours or as soon as
you feel the urge. Also emptying soon after
intercourse can help flush out bacteria.
Wear cotton underwear.
Avoid douches, powders and deodorant sprays to the
vaginal area.
Questions?
If you have any questions or think you may have a
urinary tract infection, please contact your doctor.
References
The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Urinary Tract Infection Frequently
Asked Questions. May 2011. Web. 3 September 2013.
<http://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq050.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20130831T1452537
666>.
Mayo Clinic. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). 29 August 2012. Web. 2 September 2013.
<http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/urinary-tract-infection/DS00286>.
Nutrivize. When A Urinary Tract Infection Goes Rogue. 23 March 2012. Web. 31 August
2013. <http://nutrivize.com/blog/womens-health/when-a-urinary-tract-infection-goesrogue/>.