Download urinary tract infection (uti) - Wilce Student Health Center

Wilce Student Health Center
The Ohio State University
1875 Millikin Rd.
Columbus, OH 43210
(614) 292-4321
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Information From Your
Wilce Student Health Center Provider
http://shs.osu.edu
URINARY TRACT INFECTION (UTI)
You are being treated for a urinary tract infection (UTI). This infection affects the bladder, kidney, and/or
ureters.
Cause
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Bacteria that invade the urinary tract – This is usually bacteria from your own body. (An STD like
gonorrhea or Chlamydia cause symptoms mimicking a UTI.)
Contributing Factors
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Low resistance to infection due to stress
Irritation caused by sexual intercourse
Not being able to pass your urine due to drugs, illness, or injury
Irritation caused by tight slacks or by nylon underwear
Poor personal hygiene
Kidney stones
Treatment
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Drink at least 8 glasses of fluids every day. Extra fluid helps rinse the bacteria out of the urinary
tract.
Drink cranberry juice which makes the bladder less hospitable to bacteria.
Avoid beverages with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and soda, which can irritate the urinary tract.
Take your antibiotics as prescribed until the bottle is empty. If you do not take all the medicine, your
infection may not be cured. If you have any problem with your medication, please call the Advice
Nurse at 292-3301.
Prevention
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Avoid using feminine hygiene products such as sprays, deodorants, or douches. Do not use
perfumed toilet paper, heavily scented soap, or powders in the vaginal area.
Avoid tight pants or undergarments and wear cotton underwear.
Try to urinate within 20 minutes after sex. This helps flush out any bacteria that may have been
pushed near the urethra.
Women should always wipe from front to back after using the toilet.
Drink 8-10 glasses of fluid a day. Always include some fluids that are high in vitamin C such as
orange juice or cranberry juice.
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Follow-up Care
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A typical bladder infection, follow-up is not necessary unless symptoms persist or recur.
For a kidney infection, follow-up is very important.
Report the following symptoms:
o Fever greater than 100.4°
o Nausea, vomiting, chills
o Back pain
o Problems with your medicine
o Any symptom that gets worse or comes back
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