If you've ever felt a sharp pain while urinating, you know how alarming it can be. While it can feel confusing when going to the bathroom suddenly hurts, more often than not, the culprit is a urinary tract infection (UTI).
This common medical issue affects millions of women each year. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatments for UTIs can help you find relief and prevent it from happening in the future.
As a board-certified OB/GYN, Daniel S. Kushner, MD, specializes in diagnosing and treating UTIs. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care that combines the most effective medical treatments with preventive strategies to help manage and overcome UTIs.
UTIs can cause a variety of symptoms, some of which might catch you off guard. Here’s a closer look at the most common signs to look for:
A burning or stinging sensation during urination is the hallmark of a urinary tract infection. This pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that makes it difficult to go about your day.
If you find yourself needing to urinate more often than usual, even if only a small amount comes out each time, this could point to a UTI. This symptom often accompanies painful urination.
If your urine appears cloudy or has a strong, unpleasant odor, it could mean you have an infection. In some cases, you might even notice blood in your urine, which should prompt an immediate call to Dr. Kushner.
Some people experience pressure or pain in their lower abdomen, often described as a constant ache or cramp. This discomfort can mean that the infection has reached your bladder.
UTIs occur when bacteria enter your urinary tract and begin to multiply. Here are some common factors that can contribute to the development of a UTI:
Wiping from back to front after using the toilet can introduce bacteria from the rectal area into the urethra. Always wipe from front to back to reduce this risk.
Sexual intercourse can push bacteria into the urethra, increasing your risk of a UTI. Urinating soon after sex can help flush out any bacteria that might have entered your urinary tract.
Certain personal hygiene products, such as scented soaps, douches, and powders, can irritate your urethra and contribute to the development of UTIs. Select unscented, gentle products instead to avoid this issue.
Having certain health conditions, such as diabetes and kidney stones, increases your risk of getting UTIs. If you have a condition that affects your urinary tract, talk to Dr. Kushner about ways to reduce your risk.
If the symptoms noted above sound familiar, don’t wait to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kushner. While UTIs are generally easy to treat, waiting increases your risk of having the infection spread and causes additional complications, like a kidney infection.
Dr. Kushner offers personalized care for UTIs, understanding that every patient is different. Some common treatment approaches include:
In addition, Dr. Kushner talks to you about preventive care to help avoid getting another UTI in the future, including practicing good bathroom hygiene, staying hydrated, avoiding irritating products, and wearing breathable underwear.
Whether you need antibiotics, pain relief, or preventive care advice, our team is here to help you feel your best. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Kushner today in Queens or White Plains, New York.
