You won’t be surprised to learn that 60% of women (and significantly fewer men) have urinary tract infections (UTIs), but did you know that children can also have UTIs? At any age, you can depend on compassionate treatment from James Stocks, MD, at Urology Specialists of Cypress. People of all ages receive personalized care and tailored treatment, whether it’s their first UTI or they struggle with recurrent infections. To schedule a same-day appointment, call the office in Cypress, Texas, or book an appointment online today.
UTIs occur when bacteria manage to get into your urinary tract. This problem can happen in children and adults when bacteria from a bowel movement or microorganisms that naturally thrive on your skin travel into the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of your body).
The female anatomy is more vulnerable because the urethra is shorter and the urethral opening is closer to the anus. As a result, bacteria reach the urethral opening when wiping after a bowel movement, during sex, or from poor hygiene.
UTIs can stay in the urethra or the bacteria may travel to the bladder or kidneys. In all locations, UTIs cause:
If you (or your child) have a kidney infection, you may also have a fever, chills, back pain, and nausea.
A complicated UTI is one that doesn’t improve with standard treatment, involves the kidneys, or occurs in men (because they seldom get UTIs). You also have a complicated UTI if you have a health condition like a suppressed immune system or kidney disease.
Recurrent UTIs are also classified as complicated. Nearly half of women have a recurrent UTI within one year of their first infection.
Your provider treats UTIs with antibiotics that kill the bacteria. They may also recommend drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding holding it in when you need to urinate.
Recurrent UTIs may improve with a different antibiotic regimen. For example, your provider may prescribe a low dose that you take for a longer time or a single-dose antibiotic to take after sex (if your UTIs occur after sexual intercourse).
A kidney infection is a serious health concern. You need immediate treatment to prevent the infection from permanently damaging the kidneys. Without treatment, the bacteria can spread into your bloodstream, putting you at risk for potentially life-threatening complications.
Though kidney infections are also treated with antibiotics, they’re typically given intravenously in the hospital.
Don’t wait to seek treatment for a urinary tract infection. Call Urology Specialists of Cypress to schedule expert care or request an appointment online today.