Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection. At Urology Care P.C., we specifically evaluate patients with recurring or complicated urinary tract infections. If you are having persistent urinary tract infections, call our office to schedule an evaluation to determine the causes that may lead to persistent infections and establish a treatment plan for you.

Common Causes of a UTI

• Intercourse
• Lack of estrogen (post-menopause and/or post-hysterectomy)
• Voiding Dysfunction

UTI’s are caused by bacteria—whether from the large intestine, sexual intercourse, or other outside sources—that travel into the urethra and into the bladder, and, if not treated, possibly the kidneys.

Symptoms of a UTI

• Burning feeling when urinating
• Frequent and/or intense urges to urinate
• Abdominal or back pain
• Cloudy and strange-smelling urine
• Fever
• Chills
• Consistently feeling tired

Your provider will collect a urine sample to diagnose a UTI and, if necessary, will prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.

Possible Causes of Recurrent or Complicated UTIs

• Kidney stones
• Obstruction
• Incomplete emptying
• Fistula

Diagnosing Recurrent or Complicated UTIs

Recurrent or complicated urinary tract infections may be due to underlying anatomic or functional abnormalities. Your provider may recommend a variety of tests to better understand your recurrent UTIs and identify the underlying cause. Some tests you may expect during your evaluation are:

• Physical Exam: Your provider will perform a physical exam which will include a pelvic exam.
• Urine Testing: Your provider will need a urine sample to analyze for evidence of infection or blood in the urine.
• Bladder scan: This test is a limited ultrasound that is used to evaluate your emptying ability to determine whether or not your recurrent infections are a result of voiding dysfunction. In some cases, a urodynamic study, a more detailed bladder function test done in the office, will be necessary to gain a clearer understanding of your urinary tract issues.
• Cystoscopy: A cystoscopy is an office procedure that allows your provider to see inside your bladder. This test allows your provider to detect any blockages or abnormalities of your bladder.
• Imaging: Your provider may order imaging of your urinary tract with ultrasound or a CT scan to better visualize any urinary tract abnormalities.