A urinary tract infection (UTI) — a bacterial infection of the urinary tract — causes inflammation and pain, and if not treated properly can lead to significant problems. The urinary tract begins with the kidneys producing urine. A tube (called a ureter) carries urine from each kidney to the bladder. The urethra then carries urine from the bladder out of the body.

Acute UTIs are a type of infection in the urethra and/or bladder. Medicines can usually clear these up without complications. In contrast, recurrent UTIs entail multiple episodes of infection. Failure to treat recurrent UTIs can lead to significant consequences, especially if the infection spreads to the kidneys. This makes treatment a top priority for long-term health and comfort.

Symptoms and diagnosis of UTIs

The most common UTI symptoms are a constant need to urinate, painful urination, urine that is cloudy or has a strong odor, and discomfort in the pelvis area. Urine also might be crimson, bright pink, or cola-colored, which indicates blood in the urine The infection irritates the urinary tract lining, which can lead to red blood cells leaking into your urine. If this happens you should make arrangements to see a Urologist as soon as possible.

To evaluate recurrent UTIs, doctors will take a thorough medical history, urinalysis, and urine culture. If you continue to have infections despite treatment, your doctor may order imaging studies to look for problems with the urinary system.

Causes and risk factors

Anatomical, lifestyle, and health-related variables are among the many potential explanations for recurrent UTIs. Females are more likely to get UTIs than males because they have shorter urethras, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. And in a female’s anatomy, the urethra lies within vagina and is close to the anus, which makes it more vulnerable to bacteria.

Lifestyle decisions that promote or worsen bacterial growth in the urinary system include engaging in frequent sexual activity and not practicing proper hygiene. Additional risk factors include pre-existing diseases that reduce the body’s ability to fight off infections or immune system deficiencies, such as diabetes or a weakened immune system.

A blockage from a kidney stone, for example, or conditions that prevent complete emptying of the bladder also can lead to recurring infections. Episodes of diarrhea, certain contraceptives (spermicides and diaphragms), long-term health issues, and genetic predispositions all increase the likelihood that an individual may experience recurrent UTIs.

Prevention strategies for urinary tract infections

Certain healthy habits and preventative steps can greatly lessen the likelihood of recurring UTIs. The best prevention methods to use include:

• Maintaining proper hydration by consuming 2-3 liters of fluid daily can dilute the urine, which may ease the pain caused by an infection.
• Always urinate soon after sexual contact and practice good hygiene by wiping from front to back after urinating to further prevent the spread of bacteria.
• Stress management approaches can be helpful because chronic stress lowers immune system function and increases the risk of infection.
• Taking cranberry supplements with 36 mg PACs can help reduce the likelihood of a urinary tract infection, but you shouldn’t use them as a replacement for professional medical care.
• Wear underwear made of cotton.
• Never hold your urine; instead, go to a restroom immediately.
• Use only gynecologist-approved scented sprays, douches, and powders.

Over-the-counter remedies

You may find that using a heating pad on your lower belly helps manage the pain and discomfort of a urinary tract infection. Phenazopyridine and other urinary tract analgesics can alleviate the burning and discomfort that come with UTIs.

While over-the-counter medications can alleviate minor symptoms, they will not eliminate the UTIs. Contact a doctor right away if your symptoms don’t go away after using over-the-counter remedies or if they’re too intense, such as a temperature of 101 or greater, and/or severe back pain. Prescription medications and other testing to determine the source(s) of recurrent UTIs may be necessary.

Antibiotics, which kill bacteria and stop them from spreading to other parts of the body, are likely to be prescribed by your doctor to help clear the illness. For most uncomplicated UTIs, a week to ten days of antibiotics usually works. Your doctor may recommend long-term, low-dose antibiotics for a longer duration if the UTI recurs frequently. For added protection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to be taken right after each sexual interaction.

A lot of medical professionals recommend using natural vitamin and herb supplements to help clear the bladder and promote a healthy inflammatory response. Natural therapies for UTIs that have scientific support include d-mannose, turmeric, cranberries, and green tea.

Dr. Kirkpatrick’s comprehensive approach

Dr. Gina Kirkpatrick emphasizes long-term prevention and personalized care in her approach to treating UTIs. She takes time to educate her patients on ways to better control and avoid UTIs. By encouraging proactive self-care and educated decision-making, this method improves long-term health while also alleviating acute symptoms.

Request an appointment with Dr. Kirkpatrick on our website or call (813) 979-7733 today.

Florida Medical Center’s Department of Urology is dedicated to enhancing patients’ well-being with cutting-edge, personalized treatments. We handle a range of urological issues by using innovative therapies and comprehensive care strategies. We provide assistance with UTIs through the use of advanced diagnostic tools to determine the exact type of bacteria causing the infection. Our team of urologists is experienced in providing treatment for any of your general urological needs. We are also equipped to handle complex urological cases involving surgery or specialized procedures.

Meet Dr. Gina Kirkpatrick

Dr. Kirkpatrick, DO, MPH, MBA, is a board-certified urologist who has been diagnosing and treating prostate issues, recurrent UTIs, urinary incontinence, and urinary voiding dysfunction in the Tampa region since 2017. She takes a patient-centered approach — making sure people understand their diseases and developing personalized treatment programs to overcome any obstacles.

Dr. Kirkpatrick completed her residency in Urological Surgery at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and Rowan University, followed by a fellowship in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery at Hackensack University Medical Center.

Beyond her medical practice, Dr. Kirkpatrick enjoys traveling with friends and family, exploring wineries, and maintaining an active lifestyle through activities like jogging, tennis, and Pilates.