UTI - Urinary Tract Infections Treatment
The kidneys, bladder and urethra are all connected and part of your elimination or urinary tract system. The urinary tract is a self-flushing system that is designed to stop bacteria from entering the body through the urethra; if it occurs, you may experience a urinary tract infection. At Primary Care Joliet, we provide UTI-urinary tract infections treatment at our medical centers in Joliet and Wilmington, IL.
As urine exits the body through the opening in the genital area, it should remove any bacteria that may be at the entrance or within the urethra. This is very effective in most cases, but there are times when bacteria may make it inside the urinary tract and cause an infection. The female anatomy is more prone to UTIs, with bacteria lingering near the urethra opening due to sexual activity or other factors. Keeping the genital area clean is important for preventing urinary tract infections, including wiping feces away from the opening of the urethra. Practicing safe sex can also help reduce risk of UTIs that are caused by sexually transmitted diseases.
Symptoms of UTIs
The symptoms of urinary tract infections depend on where the infection reaches. Must UTIs are in the urethra and can be stopped with treatment before they reach the bladder or kidneys. Symptoms become worse once they reach these organs, especially the kidneys. The first signs of a UTI include:
- Burning sensation when urinating
- Ongoing urge to urinate
- Urinating frequently
- Changes to urine color – may be cloudy or pinkish
- Strong-smelling urine
- Pelvic pain
It is possible to have a UTI without symptoms, especially in the early stages. If the infection spreads to the bladder, you may have more pelvic pain and blood in the urine. It is when the infection reaches the kidneys that serious complications can occur, with a high fever, chills, vomiting and possible damage to the kidneys.
If you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection, contact our team at Primary Care Joliet. Most UTIs require antibiotics to stop the infection. To schedule an appointment, contact our office. Call our medical center in Joliet or Wilmington, IL, to book your visit.