UTI Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention
What is a Urinary Tract Infection?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in the urinary system, usually in the bladder or urethra, but occasionally involving the kidneys. It is often caused when bacteria living in the anal, genital, and vaginal regions enter the urethra and travel to the bladder.
Read on to learn about urinary tract infection symptoms, prevention, and treatment.
What are the signs of a urinary tract infection?
The most common UTI symptoms:
- Pain or burning when you urinate
- Frequent urination
- Foul smelling or cloudy urine
- Bloody urine
- Pain in lower back
How to prevent a urinary tract infection
The following steps may help you prevent future UTIs:
- Stay hydrated with lots of water and fluids.
- Urinate when you feel the need; do not hold your urine.
- Urinate before and after sexual activity.
- Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom.
- Reduce the use of douching, unscented soaps, sprays, and powders in the genital area.
- Wash your genitals with warm water and soap.
How to treat a urinary tract infection
If you think you may have a urinary tract infection, see a physician. If you are diagnosed with a UTI, you may be prescribed antibiotics. Additionally, drink increased amounts of fluids to help flush bacteria out of your system.
Patient First treats many conditions at our urgent care centers including urinary tract infections. You can visit any Patient First center from 8am to 8pm, any day of the week – no appointment is needed.
Why Patient First?
Patient First provides efficient service that meets your medical needs as well as your schedule. Don’t wait for an appointment—simply walk in to your nearest Patient First center today. Our extended night, weekend, and holiday hours mean you never have to miss work or school. We pride ourselves in a minimum wait at our urgent care centers, which is significantly less than at the hospital emergency room.
