How to diagnose a Urinary Tract Infection
There are several ways to diagnose a urinary tract infection (UTI). The most common way is to take a urine sample and send it to a lab for testing. A healthcare provider may also use a dipstick test to detect bacteria and white blood cells in the urine. In some cases, imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan may be necessary to rule out other conditions.
Symptoms of a UTI include:
-A strong, persistent urge to urinate
-A burning sensation when urinating
-Pelvic pain (in women)
– cloudy or bloody urine
-strong smelling urine
-Fever or chills (in severe cases)
If you think you may have a UTI, it is important to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Left untreated, a UTI can lead to serious complications such as kidney damage.
Treatment
Treatment for a UTI usually involves antibiotics. It is important to finish the full course of antibiotics even if your symptoms go away. This will help ensure the infection is completely gone. Drinking plenty of fluids and urinating often can also help relieve symptoms and speed up recovery.
Urinary tract infections are common, but they can be painful and cause other problems if they’re not treated promptly. If you think you may have a UTI, see your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
– Urinary Tract Infection Diagnosis
– Urinary Tract Infection Treatment
– Urinary Tract Infection Symptoms
– Urinary Tract Infection Causes
– Urinary Tract Infection in Women
– Urinary Tract Infection in Men
– Urinary Tract Infection in Children
– Urinary Tract Infection Home Remedies
– Urinary Tract Infection Prevention
– Urinary Tract Infection Complications
– Urinary Tract Infection Testing
How to prevent Urinary Tract Infections
– Cranberry juice or capsules
– Drink plenty of fluids
– Urinate when you feel the urge
– Wipe from front to back after using the restroom
– Avoid holding in your urine
– Empty your bladder completely when urinating
– Avoid douching
– Wear cotton underwear and loose fitting clothes
– Practice good hygiene
If you are prone to UTIs, your healthcare provider may prescribe a preventive antibiotic. This is typically taken once a day or after sexual intercourse. People with certain medical conditions such as diabetes or a weakened immune system may be more likely to develop UTIs and may need to take preventive antibiotics on a long-term basis.
