Because we have a shorter urethra than men, we have more risk of developing urinary tract infections through our lives. Bacteria has an easier time entering and holding on to the walls of our urinary tracts. But that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through it. Keep reading to learn more about UTIs, and how you can treat them.
How do you tell if you have a UTI?
If you’ve reached a certain age, you might be familiar with the common signs of a urinary tract infection. There are the most common signs like painful urination, a burning sensation, or even a need to go right now. It’s not only how you feel that can reveal a UTI, but what your body is actually getting rid of. Because the bacteria that causes a UTI is expelled through urine, your urine can clue you in. If your urine is red, brown, or cloudy, then you likely have an infection.
Older women may experience cramping or muscle aches as a symptom of urinary tract infections, though aches in the stomach may signal other issues so it’s best to have that confirmed by a physician.
How do you treat a UTI?
If you have a fairly mild urinary tract infection, then you may experience one or two instances of painful urination and then find that it has resolved itself. Antibiotics are generally prescribed to help your body fight off an infection, which will also help resolve your symptoms sooner. It’s important to remember the proper protocol when taking antibiotics, though. Never quit taking antibiotics before you’ve finished the dosage that your doctor has prescribed. Even if your symptoms have cleared up, bacteria may bounce back if not completely eradicated. Antibiotic resistance is a serious concern, so we need to do as much as we can to keep the antibiotics we have useful.
If you’re currently suffering from a UTI, call us today at (281) 444-4080 to schedule a consultation.
