Healthcare Services

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Diagnosis and Treatment in Houston

Different Types of UTIs

Urethra

Urethritis is when your urethra is infected, which can lead to discharge on top of the usual symptoms. While it can also be caused by bacteria like E. coli, STIs can also lead to your urethra becoming infected.

Bladder

Cystitis is when your bladder becomes infected by bacteria. It is one of the most common types of UTIs – especially in women since their urethra is shorter and closer to their bladder than men’s.

Kidney

Pyelonephritis affects the kidneys and tends to be one of the more severe types of UTIs. It occurs when bacteria travels up from the urethra and past the bladder, settling into your kidneys. Kidney infections can have serious consequences and lead to complications if left untreated. On top of the standard UTI symptoms, those with an infected kidney may also experience back pain, chills, nausea, fever and vomiting.

Fungal and Viral

Bacteria is the predominant cause of UTIs, but certain cases may be caused by fungus or viruses, particularly if the individual has a compromised immune system and pre-existing conditions.

Asymptomatic

Sometimes, there may be bacteria in your urine that don’t necessarily affect your urinary tract or manifest any symptoms. Unlike the other types of UTI, an asymptomatic UTI may resolve naturally without medical intervention. That said, in certain cases – such as if you’re pregnant or preparing to undergo surgery – your healthcare provider may provide treatment to limit the risk of complications due to your circumstances.

How Do You Get a UTI?

• Catheters: People with catheters are at a higher risk for developing a UTI. The longer a catheter stays in place, especially with improper catheter handling or care, the higher the risk of infection.

• Sexual Activity: Sexual activity can push bacteria from your or your partner’s genitalia into your urethra, leading to a UTI.

• Certain Birth Control: Some forms of birth control, such as spermicides and diaphragms, can occasionally irritate the urethra or alter vaginal flora, potentially facilitating the entry of bacteria into the urinary tract.

• Existing Conditions: Kidney stones or an enlarged prostate can create blockages in your urinary tract that can elevate the likelihood of developing a UTI. Indirectly related conditions like diabetes can also increase the likelihood of a UTI since they weaken the immune system.

• Hormonal Changes: The hormone changes involved in pregnancy and menopause can change the structure of your urinary tract, which can result in a UTI. Subsequently, because of this, women are inherently more at risk of developing a UTI.

Can Men Get UTIs?

Yes. Although UTIs are more common in women, men are not impervious to UTIs and can develop them, usually due to having an enlarged prostate or other existing urinary tract issues.

How to Treat a UTI

UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics can have side effects – including rashes, yeast infections and dizziness – but they pale in comparison to the consequences of leaving a UTI untreated. Complications of a prolonged UTI can range from repeated infections and a narrowed urethra (for men in particular) to permanent kidney damage and even sepsis in extreme cases, which can be life-threatening.

At. St. Hope Healthcare, we won’t let your case progress that far. Our primary care physicians will provide you with focused care and comprehensive treatment so you can remedy your infection and feel better as soon as possible.

St. Hope Healthcare in Houston Has Helped Treat UTIs for Over 20 Years

Our fast lab results and patient-oriented care help ensure each Houston-area resident who visits one of our clinics receives the effective care they deserve. Call (713) 778-1300 to schedule an appointment today.