Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)

UTIs don't always cause visible signs, but when they do, symptoms may include:

• A strong, persistent urge to urinate.
• A burning sensation or pain when urinating (Dysuria).
• Passing frequent, but very small amounts of urine.
• Urine that appears cloudy, red, bright pink, or cola-colored (a sign of blood in the urine).
• Strong-smelling urine and pelvic pain.

UTIs typically occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder. The most common cause is Escherichia coli (E. coli), a type of bacteria commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract. Underlying conditions like kidney stones or an enlarged prostate (BPH) can also trap urine and lead to frequent infections.

Accurate diagnosis is key to effective treatment. We generally perform:

• Urinalysis: To check for white blood cells, red blood cells, or bacteria.
• Urine Culture: To identify the exact bacteria causing the infection and determine which antibiotic will work best.
• Imaging (Ultrasound/CT scan): Recommended for recurrent UTIs to rule out structural abnormalities or kidney stones.

Antibiotics usually are the first line of treatment for urinary tract infections. The type of medication and length of time you take it depend on your health condition and the type of bacteria found in your urine. For severe or complicated kidney infections, intravenous (IV) antibiotics in a clinical setting may be required.

You can take several steps to reduce your risk:

• Drink plenty of water to dilute your urine and flush out bacteria.
• Do not hold your urine for long periods; empty your bladder regularly.
• Maintain good personal hygiene.
• Address underlying urological issues (like stones or prostate enlargement) with a specialist.