UTI and Bladder Infection Treatment in Omaha
UTI & Bladder Infection Symptoms
Urinary tract infections and bladder infections are terms that are often used interchangeably, though they are not exactly the same. Urinary tract infection, or UTI, is more of an umbrella term used to describe an infection in any part of the urinary tract, which can include the bladder, kidneys, ureters, and urethra. Bladder infections specifically refer to an infection in the bladder. They are commonly caused by bacteria in the genital region.
UTIs and bladder infections most commonly occur in the lower urinary tract (the urethra and bladder) of women, though upper tract infections and infections in men are also possible.
What Causes a UTI?
A UTI or bladder infection happens when bacteria enters the urinary tract. This most often happens via the urethra, and then spreads within the bladder. Sometimes the bacteria can travel up to the kidneys as well.
The main bacteria culprit for bladder infections is typically Escherichia coli (E. coli). This bacteria is often found in the GI tract, and can cause painful and frustrating UTI symptoms. While other types of bacteria have been known to cause UTIs, E. coli is usually the one medical providers suspect first.
E. coli and sexually transmitted diseases can also cause infections of the urethra. These similarities make it even more important to have your UTI symptoms evaluated by a medical provider, so you can find out exactly what type of treatment you need most.
Signs of a UTI Infection
UTIs and bladder infections can be difficult to diagnose, because they don’t always present with dramatic or noticeable symptoms. When an infection does present with UTI symptoms, they typically include:
- Burning feeling during urination
- Having to urinate often, and only passing small amounts of urine each time
- A very strong need to urinate that does not get relieved
- Cloudy urine
- Signs of blood in urine – a bright pink, red, or cola color
- Urine with a strong smell
- In women, pelvic pain around the pubic bone or center of the pelvis
If you are experiencing vaginal symptoms that aren’t as severe as the above, there is a chance you might have a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis.
UTI Symptoms and Diagnosis
The symptoms listed above are some of the more common indicators that you have a UTI or bladder infection. Certain UTI symptoms, however, can signal a more serious case of infection or complication, and you should call to schedule a same-day appointment. If it is outside of normal business hours, a trip to the emergency room may be in order.
- High fever
- Chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Back or side pain
Once you are seen by your medical provider, they will take a urine sample for analysis and diagnosis. In some circumstances, a bacterial culture will be grown in order to determine what type of bacteria is causing the infection. A UTI or bladder infection must be treated in order to get better, and a visit to your medical provider for testing is the best way to get the proper treatment quickly.
Treatment Options
Once diagnosed, your medical provider will prescribe you antibiotics to clear up the UTI or bladder infection. Most UTIs are simple infections, and are quickly dealt with once antibiotics are begun. It’s important to take the antibiotics exactly as your medical provider instructs, in order for them to be fully effective.
In the case of a more severe or complex infection — or with frequent and recurring infections — your medical provider may prescribe stronger antibiotics with a different schedule. Your medical provider will walk you through your treatment options if that is the case.
Prevention and Home Remedies
Though it’s impossible to protect yourself from infections at all times, there are certain best practices that medical providers recommend for general prevention.
Staying properly hydrated by drinking plenty of liquid — preferably water — will allow your body to flush out any bacteria that may be settled in the urinary tract.
Practicing good sexual hygiene is also a good idea. Changing birth control from potentially irritating methods like diaphragms and spermicides can help, as well as emptying your bladder after sex.
Another extremely important method of prevention is wiping front to back, which prevents the spread of bacteria from the GI tract.
Some home remedies you may try, in addition to medical attention and antibiotics, include:
- Drinking cranberry juice and other cranberry product
- Using a warm heating pad on your abdomen
- Avoiding caffeine, citrus, and other irritating beverages until after your infection clears
CDC’s Recommended Antibiotics for UTI
The most commonly-recommended antibiotics prescribed for basic UTI symptoms are:
- Trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Bactrim DS)
- Fosfomycin (Monurol)
- Nitrofurantoin (Macrodantin, Macrobid, Furadantin)
- Cephalexin
- Ceftriaxone
Usually only 3-5 days of antibiotics will clear simple UTIs. In more serious infections, higher-risk antibiotics called fluoroquinolones are prescribed. These will not be prescribed without serious discussion and infection risk being considered.
Schedule an appointment for UTI testing today!
At Nebraska Home Pediatrics & Parents, we know how painful and miserable a bladder infection or UTI can be! If you are experiencing bladder infection or UTI symptoms, please call us today at our Omaha clinic and schedule an appointment.