If you have pain while urinating or difficulty urinating, you may have a urinary tract infection (UTI). A UTI happens when bacteria forms along your urinary tract, usually in the narrow tubes called ureters that carry urine from your kidneys to your bladder.
Women suffer from urinary tract infections more often than men because women have shorter urinary tracts, making them more susceptible to bacteria. When you have a urinary tract infection, bacteria enters through the opening of the urethra (where your urine exits your body) and travels up into the urinary tract, bladder and possibly to your kidneys.
Main Line Health offers diagnosis and treatment of urinary tract infections so you can feel better.
It can be hard to tell if you have a urinary tract infection or another condition, such as interstitial cystitis or kidney stones.
Common symptoms of urinary tract infection include:
It's important to see your doctor if you have symptoms of a UTI. This is because the symptoms of a urinary tract infection are similar to symptoms of other conditions. Also, the sooner your condition is diagnosed, the sooner you can receive treatment that will relieve your symptoms.
Based on your symptoms, your doctor may order a urinalysis. A urinalysis is a lab test of your urine that looks for signs of infection. You will need to provide a sample of your urine in order for this test to be completed.
If you are diagnosed with a UTI, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. You should also increase the amount of water you are drinking to help keep your system clear of any new bacteria. You can take over the counter medicines, such as ibuprofen, and use a heating pad to help with any pain.
Our board-certified gynecologists are dedicated to serving you at every stage of your life, from adolescence to menopause and beyond. Whether you need treatment for common gynecological issues or advanced therapies and surgical expertise, we're here to provide comprehensive care and support.
Our skilled urologists offer comprehensive, compassionate treatment and personalized solutions for urological conditions.
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