A urinary tract infection occurs in the bladder, kidneys, ureters, or urethra. UTIs are common, especially in women, and the symptoms can range from mild to severe. They are caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract and multiply, leading to an infection. A common symptom of a UTI is a burning sensation when you urinate. Other symptoms include:
- Pain or pressure in the lower abdomen.
- Frequent or urgent urination.
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine.
- Blood in the urine.
If left untreated, a UTI can lead to more serious medical complications. Visit an urgent care clinic near you if you suspect you have a UTI. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further complications.
Causes of Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections
Several things can cause your urinary tract infection to recur. Understanding these causes can help you treat them and prevent them from happening again.
The most common reason for recurrent urinary tract infections includes the following:
- Poor Hygiene
UTIs are caused by bacteria like E. coli that thrive in the rectum and can easily travel to the urethra.
However, these infections can also be caused by other factors more likely to affect women. These include poor genital hygiene, sexual intercourse, and the use of certain feminine products.
Fortunately, there are ways you can do to avoid recurrent UTIs. One way is to practice good genital hygiene, including wiping from front to back after using the bathroom and always changing your pads or tampons as often as necessary.
- Kidney Disease
Kidney disease is a condition that causes damage to your kidneys and reduces their ability to filter waste products out of your blood. It is usually a complication of diabetes or high blood pressure, but it can occur for other reasons, too.
If your doctor thinks you have kidney disease, he will start treatment immediately to control your signs and symptoms and prevent complications. This can include reducing blood sugar and blood pressure and managing other underlying health conditions.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the most common type of kidney disease caused by kidney damage. It can happen suddenly or gradually over time.
CKD can cause chronic inflammation, which weakens the body’s ability to fight off infections. As a result, people with CKD are more likely to get infections, particularly from the community – one of the most frequent ones being UTIs.
- Urinary Tract Blockage
When a blockage in the urinary tract develops, it can cause pain and irritation. It can also lead to kidney damage, especially if it is severe or not treated quickly.
Ureteral obstruction occurs when the tube that transfers urine from the kidney to the bladder (ureter) is too narrow or doesn’t let enough urine flow. A scar, congenital disability, or pressure from outside structures such as tumors and stones can cause this.
Recurrent urinary tract infections often happen in people with genetic predispositions or an abnormally shaped or deformed urinary tract. Some patients with these conditions may need x-rays to look for a structural change or blockage contributing to their recurrent UTIs.
In most cases, the best way to prevent recurrent urinary tract infections is to follow good hygiene practices and avoid other problems that can increase your risk of infection.
- Infections
UTIs are infections of the kidneys, bladder, ureters, or urethra. They’re more common in women than in men for several reasons.
Infections can come from various sources, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Some are mild and barely noticeable, while others can be life-threatening. It is crucial to visit urgent care in 77008 for assistance if you have an infection.
When Should You Visit the ER for Urinary Tract Infections?
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be painful and disruptive. It is important to know when to seek medical attention for UTI symptoms. Getting urgent care in Houston can be necessary if the infection is severe or if you are experiencing any symptoms: severe abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, confusion, or difficulty urinating. If you are unsure whether your UTI warrants a visit to the ER, it is best to consult your doctor or healthcare provider.
Schedule an Appointment
If you have recurrent UTIs, visiting Neumed Modern Urgent Care for assistance and proper treatment is crucial.
