Urinary Tract Infection

Prompt care for a urinary tract infection, or UTI, can prevent serious complications, including kidney infections and infertility. Seek treatment at EMC Express Care in North Richland Hills, Texas, under the direction of Luke Kehres, MD, at the first signs of a UTI. Call today or walk in for available appointments.

What is a UTI?

A UTI is a bacterial infection that occurs within the bladder or urinary tract. Women are more likely to develop a UTI because of the length of their urethra – the tube through which urine leaves your bladder and body. 

Women have a shorter urethra, so bacteria can reach the bladder more readily. 

An untreated UTI is extremely uncomfortable. Plus, the bacteria can spread to neighboring organs and cause serious infections. If the bacteria travel to the uterus and fallopian tubes (or the prostate gland in men), it can even cause infertility.

What are the symptoms of a UTI?

Although women are more likely to suffer a UTI, both men, and women can develop one. They may experience symptoms such as:

• Pain and burning during urination
• Off-smelling urine
• Difficulty controlling urine
• Fatigue and weakness
• Blood in the urine

If you experience any of these symptoms, make an immediate appointment at EMC Express Care. The team can help you find relief and heal quickly.

What causes UTIs?

Because of their anatomy, women are at higher risk of getting a UTI. In addition, certain situations make bacteria more likely to enter the bladder. These include: 

• Using condoms
• Not using the restroom after sex
• Drinking too little water
• Using catheters

People with kidney stones, diabetes, and women who are pregnant are also at a greater risk. Women who are in peri- or full menopause also tend to experience UTIs frequently. 

How do you treat a UTI?

As soon as you notice symptoms of a UTI, seek treatment. You’ll give a sample of your urine, which is tested for a bacterial infection. 

Most people with a UTI respond well to prescription antibiotics. You’ll likely take them for 7-10 days. Continue to take the entire dose, even if you start to feel better. Your symptoms usually resolve quickly, but you need the entire prescription amount to wipe out the infection.

For patients with a severe infection, the course of antibiotics may last two weeks. 

Seek care for a UTI at EMC Express Care. Call today, walk in, or use the online tool to book an appointment.