What is a UTI
At University Urgent Care in Fort Worth, TX, our medical professionals can treat different infections. Two of the most common ones are urinary tract infection (UTI) or a bladder infection. A UTI is an infection of any part of the urinary system, whether the urethra, bladder, ureters, or kidneys. Most of these infections occur in the lower urinary tract. Women are more susceptible to developing one. Without proper UTI treatment, your infection can develop into something much more serious.
Bladder infections vs. UTI
Bladder infections are one of the most common types of urinary tract infection (UTI). Some think bladder infections are the same as UTIs, but this is not the case. All bladder infections are a type of UTI, but not all urinary tract infections are always bladder infections. While the body naturally removes bacteria during urination, bladder infections occur when the bacteria attached to the bladder wall begin to multiply fast.
Symptoms of a UTI
Urinary tract infections don’t always cause signs and symptoms. However, some of the most common UTI symptoms include:
- A strong urge to urinate
- Burning sensation when urinating
- Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
- Cloudy urine
- Blood in the urine
- Pelvic pain (for women)
At University Urgent Care, we offer simple and effective solutions to address UTIs and bladder infections. When you think you may have a bladder or urinary tract infection, schedule an appointment in Fort Worth. TX.
Common causes of UTIs in men and women
A UTI occurs when microbes enter the urinary tract and cause an infection. E. coli bacteria, however, is the leading cause of most UTIs. For women, it’s easier to get a UTI as their urethra is shorter than a man’s, which allows bacteria to get access to the bladder easier. Some forms of birth control can also increase your risk of a UTI. For men, enlargement of the prostate gland can block the bladder neck, which makes it hard for urine to flow freely. When you don’t empty completely, bacteria is left there, which can lead to a UTI.
How to treat a UTI
When you notice signs of a urinary tract infection and UTI home treatment isn’t working, it’s time to visit University Urgent Care. We can help you achieve relief. We will run a urinalysis to look for nitrites, red or white blood cells, or bacteria. Based on these results, we will prescribe you antibiotics. Stay very hydrated so you can flush out all the bacteria efficiently. While there are some home remedies that can address these infections, getting antibiotics and professional medical care is really the best way to start the healing process.
- UTI prevention
- To reduce your risk of developing a urinary tract infection, follow these tips:
- Drink plenty of water, which dilutes your urine.
- Wipe from front to back, which prevents bacteria from spreading into your urethra.
- Empty your bladder after sex.
- Avoid using fragranced feminine products, especially powders, body wash, or deodorant sprays.
- Treat a UTI quickly
At University Urgent Care in Fort Worth, TX, our medical staff works with patients to help relieve their pain and discomfort from a UTI or bladder infection. To schedule an appointment for UTI treatment, call our urgent care center today. We serve the Tanglewood, Paschal, Frisco Heights, and TCU neighborhoods. We also offer online consultations for those who want treatment from the comfort of their home.