If you have a UTI, make sure to take advantage of our UTI treatment Los Angeles service as soon as possible.
What is a UTI?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is when an infection attacks your bladder, urethra, kidneys, and uterus. Most of these types of infections attack only your bladder and urethra and are most common amongst women. They are painful and if left untreated, can cause serious problems.
Symptoms
Urinary tract infections don’t always display symptoms but when they do, it will include:
- Burning during urination
- Cloudy urine
- Strong smelling urine
- Constant urge to use the bathroom
- Pink or red color urine
- Frequent urination in small amounts
- Pelvic pain
Causes
A UTI is usually caused by bacteria that have multiplied in your bladder after entering the urinary tract via your urethra. Your system has barriers to keep out these kinds of bacteria but can sometimes fail. There are two main types of UTIs, including:
- Urethritis, which is a urethra infection that occurs when GI bacteria spreads from your anus to the urethra.
- An infection that affects the bladder is usually caused by E. Coli, which can be caused by sexual intercourse. Because of a woman’s anatomy, they are more likely to develop this type of urinary tract infection.
What is the Treatment for a UTI?
The typical treatment for a UTI is a prescription of some sort of antibiotic. The medication you are prescribed will depend on the type of bacteria found in your urine and your health condition.
For a simple infection the most common drugs prescribed are:
- Ceftriaxone
- Trimethoprim
- Cephalexin
- Fosfomycin
- Nitrofurantoin
There are types of antibiotics known as fluoroquinolones and are not recommended for a simple infection because the risks can outweigh the benefits. However, your doctor may prescribe fluoroquinolones if you have a complicated UTI or kidney infection.
Frequent UTI Treatment
For frequent UTIs, your doctor will recommend a different course of treatment such as:
- Vaginal estrogen therapy for those that are postmenopausal
- If your infections are a result of sexual activity, you may take a single dose of antibiotics after intercourse
- Low-dose antibiotics for around six months
- Self-diagnosis and treatment
A severe infection might require you to receive intravenous antibiotics at a hospital.
