A urinary tract infection, or UTI, can affect any part of your urinary system. Although it can happen to anyone no matter their age, they seem to impact women more than men. When they keep coming back or recurring, you need to seek answers.. If you are getting recurring UTIs, when to see The Urology Center of Colorado could be a critical factor in preventing future cases.
Don’t Ignore The Early Signs
Most cases of urinary tract infections can be treated with a short course of antibiotics. The problem arises when those signs are ignored or someone does not realize that they have autoimmune issues.
If the infection is in the bladder, it becomes easy to treat. If it enters the kidneys, there can be serious consequences and hospitalization might be required.
Some early signs of a UTI include the following:
- Frequent urination
- Urinating frequently but in small amounts
- Burning sensation when urinating
- Cloudy urine
- Strong smelling urine
- Red, pink, or brown urine indicating blood
If you have any combination of these symptoms, make an appointment a doctor.
Possible Complications From An Untreated UTI
Some may think a urinary tract infection is no big deal, and it will
just pass. The opposite is true. It is a big deal and there are significant complications that can arise.
If the infection affects the kidneys, it can lead to not only infection, but kidney disease and kidney damage. Signs of this complication include high fever over 101, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and chills. There may even be mental disorientation.
If the infection enters the bloodstream, you can develop sepsis. This is a life-threatening complication from infection.
Preventing Recurring UTIs
There are ways to prevent a urinary tract infection and especially those that recur.
- Drink lots of water
- Urinate immediately after sexual intercourse to help flush out the bladder
- Drink water before and after sexual intercourse
- Always wipe from front to back when urinating or moving your bowels to keep bacteria from spreading
- Talk with your physician about changing your birth control method
- Avoid deodorant sprays, douches, and powders that can irritate the urethra
If you have had a UTI three times in the last year, that is considered recurring, and it is time to see a urologist at The Urology Center of Colorado in Colorado.
Contact The Urology Center of Colorado at (781) 431-1177 for an evaluation and treatment if you have chronic UTIs.
