Download Urinary Tract Infection

BRADY HEALTH CENTER
URINARY TRACT INFECTION
Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection in women and can include any part of the urinary
tract-kidneys, bladder or urethra (tube that carries urine out of the bladder). Infections of the bladder
are the most common and are also called cystitis. When bacteria that are normally in the vagina and
intestines enter the urinary tract, they can cause a UTI. Because the openings to the bladder, vagina,
and intestines are located close to each other in females, it is easy for the bacteria to enter the bladder
opening (urethra) especially during intercourse.
RISK FACTORS--Factors that may predispose a young woman to repeated episodes of cystitis:
• Sexual Activity
• Use of spermicides
• Genetic factors
• A new sex partner
SYMPTOMS--You may have one or more of the following symptoms with cystitis:
• Pain or burning when you urinate
• Feeling like you need to urinate more often than usual
• Feeling the urge to urinate but not being able to
• Cloudy, dark or bloody urine
• Discomfort in the middle of the lower abdomen
Nausea, vomiting, back pain and fever > 101° may be signs of a kidney infection. This can be a more
serious problem and usually requires an antibiotic for a longer time and possibly hospitalization.
DIAGNOSIS--can often be based on symptoms alone. However, since some of the symptoms of
cystitis can also occur with vagintis (e.g. yeast infection) or urethritis (inflammation of the urethra), a
urine sample may be tested to determine if white blood cells are present. A urine culture may also be
done to determine which specific bacteria are causing the infection and which antibiotic will be most
effective. If a vaginal infection is suspected, a pelvic exam and appropriate cultures will need to be
performed.
TREATMENT
• The usual treatment for uncomplicated cystitis is several days of antibiotics. The typical drugs
chosen are trimeth/sulfa DS (Bactrim), ciprofloxin or nitrofurantoin. Symptoms generally
resolve in 1-3 days after starting treatment but it’s important to complete the full course of
antibiotic as prescribed.
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If needed, medicine that numbs the urinary tract can be given for painful urination and will
make you feel better while waiting for the antibiotic to work (Pyridium).
Increasing fluids to 4-8 glasses of water or juice per day may help dilute the urine and relieve
irritation. However, if you’re on an antibiotic, this can also dilute the medication making it less
effective, so don’t drink excessive amounts of water.
There are no studies documenting cranberry juice as an effective treatment for UTI. However,
one study found that cranberry products (juice or capsule) can reduce reoccurrence of cystitis.
Refrain from sexual intercourse until symptoms resolve.
If you are not experiencing any relief after a full 48 hours of treatment, contact the health
center.
If fever, chills, back pain, nausea or vomiting occur, seek immediate care.
PREVENTION—Women may want to consider the following to prevent UTI:
• Drink lots of water every day (but not while taking antibiotics)
• Urinate when you feel the need-don’t “hold” it. Don’t rush-take the time to empty your bladder
completely
• After bowel movements, wipe from front to back (never back to front)
• Good hygiene is a must-showers are better than tub baths
• Cleanse the genital area before sexual intercourse. Urinating after intercourse may also be
helpful.
• Avoid use of feminine hygiene sprays and scented douches as they can irritate increasing
chance of infection.
• Wear cotton underwear and pantyhose with a cotton crotch. Do not wear too many layers of
tight clothes.
• There may be some benefit to using cranberry products ( juice or capsule) to prevent recurrent
UTIs
• Avoid use of spermicides, especially with a diaphragm. Contact your health care provider or
the health center about an alternative method of contraception.
If these methods are not effective in preventing recurrent UTIs, additional antibiotic treatment may be
considered as well as referral for urology evaluation.
Orig: 7/95
Revised: 6/05, 7/06. 6/07