Urinary Tract Infections or UTI is a common and serious problem that should be assessed and treated as soon as possible. Usual symptoms include frequency of urination, burning with urination, blood in the urine, pelvic pressure or pain and back pain. One out 5 women will develop a UTI. The most common causes of UTI are bacteria like E.coli. However, Chlamydia or Mycoplasma may also be a cause for UTI.
It is important to test for STD's when UTI is diagnosed to make sure that the underlying problem is also treated. It is important to take all medication prescribed for a UTI. Usually, the symptoms are relieved within 24 hours but the medication is commonly prescribed for 7 days.
If you seem to be developing a fever (higher than 100 degrees) or if your symptoms are prohibiting normal day to day activities, you should contact your healthcare provider. They will want to know if you are allergic to any antibiotics, your body temperature, and any history of medication and/or antibiotics you have taken in the past. Also, a urine sample will be requested for culture and a discussion on if antibiotics should begin immediately or postponed until the culture results are returned.
Drink plenty of water to flush out bacteria. Drinking cranberry juice may also help prevent urinary tract infections. However, if you're taking warfarin (brand name: Coumadin), check with your doctor before using cranberry juice to prevent urinary tract infections. Your doctor may need to adjust your warfarin dose or you may need to have more frequent blood tests.
