UTI

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common problem that can interfere with your daily routine. William Rowland, MD,  Devendra Autar, DO, and the team at Boca General & Family Medicine in Boca Raton, Florida, can diagnose and treat UTIs so you can return to work or normal activities. If you’re suffering from a UTI, call the office or request an appointment online today.

What is a UTI?

UTIs are sometimes called bladder infections, but they can affect any part of your urinary tract. In addition to your bladder, a UTI may develop in your urethra, kidneys, or ureters.

Most UTIs occur in the lower part of your urinary tract – the bladder and urethra. Infections that are left untreated may spread to higher parts of your urinary tract, such as your kidneys. While any UTI may cause discomfort, a kidney infection is a painful and potentially serious health problem.

The team at Boca General & Family Medicine provides quick and convenient treatment for UTIs so you can avoid serious complications.

What are the symptoms of a UTI?

Having a UTI without any signs or symptoms is possible. When UTIs do cause symptoms, they often include:

• A strong urge to urinate frequently
• A burning sensation while urinating
• Passing small amounts of urine
• Urine that appears cloudy or discolored
• Urine that smells strong
• Pelvic pain

Complications that can occur with untreated UTIs include kidney damage, pregnancy problems, urethra narrowing, recurrent infections, and life-threatening sepsis.

Who gets UTIs?

Both men and women can experience UTIs, though they are more common among women. According to the National Institutes of Health, at least 40-60% of women have at least one UTI in their lifetime. About 12% of men experience urinary tract infections.

Specific factors may increase your risk of developing a UTI, such as:

• Being sexually active
• Having gone through menopause
• Difficulty emptying your bladder completely
• Urinary tract problems
• A history of UTIs
• Diabetes
• Problems with your immune system

Ways to lower your risk of developing a UTI include drinking plenty of water, wiping from front to back, emptying your bladder after sexual intercourse, avoiding irritating feminine products, and not using diaphragms, spermicide-treated condoms, or unlubricated condoms. 

How do you diagnose and treat a UTI?

First, one of the expert providers at Boca General & Family Medicine performs a physical exam and reviews your medical history. If they suspect you have a UTI, they might suggest an on-site urine test to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment depends on your unique condition and the severity of your UTI. For uncomplicated infections, your provider may prescribe antibiotic drugs. Serious infections might require intravenous antibiotics.

If you think you have a UTI and need fast treatment, call Boca General & Family Medicine or request an appointment online today.