UTI Specialist
Women are more susceptible to developing a urinary tract infection, which can cause uncomfortable and even painful symptoms. Our staff at Centric Urgent Care can offer treatment quickly to minimize discomfort for patients.
UTI Q & A
Centric Urgent Care
What causes UTIs?
Urinary tract infections (UTI) are a common condition most often caused by bacteria entering into the urinary tract through the urethra and multiplying in the bladder. Women may be more susceptible to getting UTIs because of their shorter urethras, which allow bacteria quick access to the bladder. Risk factors to getting UTIs include:
# Sexual activity
# Certain types of birth control
# Menopause in women
# Urinary tract abnormalities
# Blockages in the urinary tract
# Suppressed immune system
# Us of a catheter
A recent urinary procedure
What are the symptoms of a UTI?
Urinary tract infections don't always show signs. When they do, each type of UTI may show different types of symptoms depending on which part of your urinary tract is infected. If you develop a UTI the following symptoms may show up:
# Feeling tired or shaky
# A burning feeling when you urinate
# A frequent or intense urge to urinate
# Pain or pressure in your back or lower abdomen
# Fever or chills
# Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
# Urine that appears cloudy
# Urine that shows sign of blood in the urine
# Strong smelling urine
# Pelvic pain, in women
Infection might be limited to your bladder, however, if a UTI spreads to your kidneys it can cause more serious problems and you should seek medical attention immediately.
How are UTIs treated?
Visit the providers at Centric Urgent Care if you experience symptoms of a UTI or suspect you have one. You may need to give a urine sample, which our staff will test to see if UTI-causing bacteria are present. We typically treat urinary tract infections with antibiotics and may prescribe medication to ease the pain. Patients also find applying a hot compress, like a heating pad, is helpful to reduce pain. Patients should complete the prescribed cycle of medicine even if symptoms subside. Drinking lots of water can help to flush the bacteria out of your system.