Urinary Tract Infection

Alexandria Urology Associates

Urologists located in Alexandria, LA & Oakdale, LA

A urinary tract infection causes uncomfortable symptoms and deserves attention from qualified urologists like James Richey, MD, and Lance Templeton, MD, of Alexandria Urology Associates in Alexandria and Oakdale, Louisiana. Women are at a greater risk of developing urinary tract infections as compared with men. If you have symptoms of this painful condition, call the nearest office or book an appointment online today.

Urinary Tract Infection Q & A

What symptoms suggest a urinary tract infection?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) doesn’t always cause symptoms. However, if you notice any of the following, suspect a UTI:

A burning sensation when urinating
Cloudy urine or urine that’s colored red or pink
Strong smelling urine
Pelvic pain

If you have a strong urge to find the bathroom but pass only small amounts of urine when you go, it could be a symptom of a UTI.

If you have any of these symptoms, contact Alexandria Urology Associates right away for an evaluation and treatment.

What causes a urinary tract infection?

A UTI results from bacteria entering the bladder or urethra. Women’s anatomy makes them more vulnerable to UTIs. Their urethras are shorter than men’s so bacteria make it to the bladder more readily.

Sexual activity also increases your risk of bacteria causing a UTI. Some birth control methods like diaphragms put you at risk. When you’re in menopause, you experience a decline in circulating estrogen and changes in the vagina that increase your susceptibility to infection as well.

How is a urinary tract infection treated?

Antibiotics usually clear up a urinary tract infection in a few days. You need to take the entire amount of the prescription, even when you begin to feel better, to prevent the UTI from coming back.

If you have extremely uncomfortable symptoms, the doctors can prescribe a pain medication for short-term relief. If you have frequent infections, you could be eligible for long-term administration of low-dose antibiotics to reduce the chance of repeated infections.

Dr. Richey and Dr. Templeton might also recommend changing your birth control method and offer a prescription for a one-time antibiotic to take after sexual intercourse if you suffer from recurrent infections.

Is there a way to prevent a urinary tract infection?

It isn’t possible to completely prevent a UTI, but taking some precautions can reduce your risk. These include:

Staying hydrated with water and drinking cranberry juice
Wiping from front to back to prevent bacteria from the rectum spreading to the vagina
Urinating right after intercourse
Avoiding douches and irritating feminine sprays

If you’re experiencing symptoms that suggest a urinary tract infection, make an appointment at Alexandria Urology Associates or schedule online to get checked. Call today or use the online booking system.

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