Urinary tract infections are the second most common type of infection in humans. Approximately 10 out of 25 women will have a UTI at least once in their life. UTIs can cause a lot of discomfort, which can worsen if you delay treatment. Effective treatments can cure UTIs, and certain habits can help prevent them from recurring.
Dr. Daniel Kushner is a highly skilled and respected OB/GYN with offices in White Plains and Queens, New York. Along with his friendly and experienced staff, Dr. Kushner provides a full range of OB/GYN services that help you look and feel your absolute best. Dr. Kusher has diagnosed and treated many patients with UTIs, including helping them avoid recurring infections.
A urinary tract infection is an infection in one or more parts of your urinary system. This includes your ureters, urethra, bladder, and kidneys. Depending on the area affected, and to what degree, symptoms vary. They likely will include some of the following:
Sometimes UTIs don’t cause any symptoms, and you may not be aware that you have an infection.
If you suspect you have a UTI, Dr. Kushner takes a sample of your urine and has it analyzed by a laboratory — a test called a urinalysis. The lab looks for the presence of red blood cells, white blood cells, bacteria, and other substances in your urine. The analysis tells Dr. Kushner if there is an infection and where it’s located.
The primary treatment for UTIs is antibiotics, which fight the bacteria that are causing the infection. You take pills daily on a regular schedule, and it’s very important when you’re prescribed antibiotics to take the full course. Even if you start feeling better part of the way through, continue the treatment as directed.
UTIs are generally caused by bacteria that enter your urinary tract through your urethra. Though certain medical conditions and medications can increase your chances of getting UTIs, there are some things you can do to prevent getting them.
Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water to flush out your urinary tract. Wiping front to back when going to the bathroom is a good habit to avoid moving bacteria from your anal area to your vagina.
Some feminine products, such as powders and douches, can irritate your urethra, increasing your chances of getting a UTI. In addition, some types of birth control, such as diaphragms and unlubricated condoms, can contribute to UTIs. If you have concerns about recurring UTIs, Dr. Kushner helps you find ways of reducing your risks.
To learn more about treatments for your UTI, or for any other OB/GYN questions or concerns, contact Daniel Kushner, MD. Call the office near you to set up an appointment, or click on our easy-to-use online appointment booking system.
