Get Proper Treatment for Your Urinary Tract Infection
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A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common bacterial infection among women but may spread to one or both kidneys and cause serious health complications when left untreated. Patients with known UTI symptoms, like pelvic pain or cloudy urine, should call Mid Cities Direct Primary Care for a health evaluation and diagnosis.
Below, Dr. Kara Farley and Dr. James Terry discuss common signs of a urinary tract infection and when to seek support from a primary care practice. We also review treatment options, like antibiotics, so the infection does not spread. Call our Grapevine, TX office to schedule a UTI evaluation today.
What is a urinary tract infection?
Women are likely to develop a urinary tract infection because their urethras are shorter, making it easier for harmful bacteria to travel into the bladder and kidneys.
One common misconception is that UTIs are caused by sexual activity. Although sexual intercourse can sometimes lead to a UTI, it is not always the root cause. Some women develop an infection due to poor feminine hygiene or by wiping back to front after having a bowel movement.
What are the symptoms of a UTI?
The most common sign of a urinary tract infection is a strong, persistent urge to urinate that does not go away over time. Other common UTI symptoms include:
- A burning sensation when urinating
- Cloudy or bloody urine
- Foul-smelling urine
- Pelvic pain
- Back pain
- Fever or chills (in severe cases)
Anyone with these symptoms should see a primary care doctor for an evaluation and diagnosis as soon as possible. Early treatment in Grapevine, TX is crucial to avoid serious health problems down the line.
What happens during a UTI evaluation?
Mid Cities Direct Primary Care will ask about your medical history and UTI symptoms at the beginning of your appointment. We may also collect a sample of your urine and perform a pelvic exam to check for other issues that could be causing your health issues. We develop a UTI treatment plan once we have all the necessary information about your case.
How are UTIs treated?
UTI treatment normally involves a course of antibiotics. Dr. Farley or Dr. Terry will provide a prescription that could last from several days to several weeks.
Moderate to severe infections may require more comprehensive solutions to protect your health and well-being. Once the medications have cleared the infection, we will follow up with you to ensure your UTI symptoms have resolved.
It is essential that patients finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if they start to feel better before finishing the prescription. Failure to follow the treatment means the bacteria may not be completely eradicated, leaving you vulnerable to future UTIs.
Can UTIs be prevented?
Patients can reduce their risk of a urinary tract infection in the following ways:
- Drink plenty of fluids (water is best)
- Urinate frequently
- Wipe from front to back to clean your intimate areas
- Avoid holding in your urine for long periods of time
Mid Cities Direct Primary Care will make custom recommendations for UTI prevention based on your lifestyle and individual risk factors.
Prevent and treat UTIs
Although urinary tract infections are common, they cause serious health problems if left alone. Call Mid Cities Direct Primary Care to meet with a primary care professional like Dr. Kara Farley or Dr. James Terry in Grapevine, TX. Our caring team will develop a thorough and personalized UTI treatment plan to help you find relief and avoid future infections.