Understanding Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTI

Understanding Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

By Dr. Sonal Jain, MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine)
Specialist in Adult Health | Dr. Sonal’s Health Care Centre

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are among the most common infections, particularly in women. They can range from a simple bladder infection to more serious kidney infections. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are key to avoiding complications.


🔍 What is a UTI?

A UTI occurs when bacteria—most commonly E. coli—enter the urinary tract and multiply. This can lead to inflammation and discomfort, primarily in the bladder, but sometimes affecting the kidneys.


🧠 Types of UTIs

  • Cystitis: Infection of the bladder (most common)

  • Urethritis: Infection of the urethra

  • Pyelonephritis: Infection of the kidneys (more severe and urgent)


⚠️ Common Symptoms

  • Burning sensation while urinating

  • Frequent urge to urinate

  • Cloudy or foul-smelling urine

  • Pelvic or lower abdominal pain

  • Fever and back pain (if kidneys are involved)


👩‍⚕️ Who is at Risk?

  • Women (due to shorter urethra)

  • Pregnant women

  • Diabetics

  • Postmenopausal women

  • Men with prostate enlargement

  • People with kidney stones or catheters


🧪 How is it Diagnosed?

  • Urine Routine and Microscopy

  • Urine Culture and Sensitivity

  • Ultrasound (if infections are recurrent or complicated)


💊 Treatment Options

  • Antibiotics based on culture results

  • Increased fluid intake to flush bacteria

  • Pain relief for discomfort

  • Longer or tailored treatments for complicated/recurrent UTIs


🔁 What About Recurrent UTIs?

If you’re getting UTIs frequently, you may need a deeper evaluation for:

  • Bladder emptying problems

  • Kidney stones or structural issues

  • Blood sugar control (in diabetics)

  • Hormonal changes (e.g., menopause)

We create personalized prevention strategies for such patients.


Tips to Prevent UTIs

  • Drink 2–3 liters of water daily

  • Maintain intimate hygiene

  • Avoid holding urine for long

  • Wipe front to back after using the toilet

  • Urinate after intercourse

  • Avoid harsh soaps and sprays

  • Wear breathable cotton undergarments


🩺 When Should You See a Doctor?

If you have:

  • High fever or chills

  • Pain in the back or side

  • Blood in urine

  • Symptoms lasting more than 2 days

Don’t delay treatment—early intervention prevents complications.


👩‍⚕️ Care You Can Trust

At Dr. Sonal’s Health Care Centre, we offer:

  • Prompt diagnosis

  • Targeted treatment

  • Recurrent UTI evaluation

  • Personalized prevention plans

📞 Call us: 9701073615
🌐 Visit: www.drsonaljainmd.com

About the Author

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You may also like these

Email
Phone
Phone
Email