Urinary Tract Infection

What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection?

Your urinary tract infection symptoms can vary depending on where in the urinary tract the infection occurs. If you have a urethra infection, your symptoms may include a burning sensation when you urinate and discharge.

In the most common type of urinary tract infection, a bladder infection, your symptoms may include:

• Pelvic pressure
• Lower abdominal pain
• Increased frequency of urination
• Pain during urination
• Blood in your urine

In a kidney infection, the most severe kind of urinary tract infection, your symptoms may include:

• Upper back pain
• Pain on either side of your back
• Fever
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Body chills

You may initially have a urethra or bladder infection and then develop a kidney infection as the bacteria causing the infection moves further into your urinary tract. If you have some of these symptoms, get treatment right away to avoid serious health complications. 

How does the doctor diagnose a urinary tract infection?

You'll discuss your symptoms with your Michigan Avenue Primary Care provider first. Based on your symptoms, your provider may order a quick urine test to verify whether you've got a urinary tract infection or not. 

If you have recurring urinary tract infections, your provider may do a urine culture in the lab. A urine culture reveals details about the specific bacteria behind the infection, and this allows for a more customized treatment.

What is the treatment for a urinary tract infection?

Urinary tract infections start with bacteria, so an antibiotic that destroys that bacteria is usually the best treatment. The Michigan Avenue Primary Care team often prescribes antibiotic drugs like cephalexin, amoxicillin, or ciprofloxacin. Usually, you'll take antibiotics for anywhere from a day to a week. 

If you take antibiotics for your urinary tract infection, take all pills according to the instructions. You'll usually get symptom relief after a day or two, but it's important to finish all the medication to get the bacteria fully out of your system.

If you've got chronic urinary tract infections, your provider may prescribe long-term antibiotics in small doses or periodic large doses as needed.

Don't let painful urination and other urinary tract infection symptoms control your life. Call Michigan Avenue Primary Care or request an appointment online today.