Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, occur when bacteria enters the urethra and travels along the urinary tract. The infection may occur in the urethra, bladder, ureters or kidneys. The most common infections are in the bladder and are also known as cystitis or a bladder infection.
Women experience UTIs more often than men because of the urethra's close location to the anus, reports MedlinePlus. Sexual intercourse can also cause the infection in women, though experts are unsure of the reason. Risk factors for developing a UTI include diabetes, age, urinary retention disorders or having a urinary catheter in place. Symptoms of a UTI include lower abdominal pressure, strong urge to urinate, burning sensation when urinating and dark colored urine. Urine may appear cloudy and have a foul odor.
Antibiotics
Antibiotic prescriptions are given to patients suffering from a simple UTI. According to MedlinePlus, women take antibiotics for three days, while men commonly take antibiotics for seven days. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports oral antibiotics cure 94 percent of uncomplicated UTIs. With the presence of more serious complications, including diabetes or pregnancy, seven to 14 days of antibiotic therapy is common.
Symptoms disappear within a few days of taking antibiotics; yet, patients should always complete treatment by taking all medications. If a patient begins antibiotic therapy, but does not complete it, a more severe infection may result. MedlinePlus reports that commonly prescribed antibiotics include amoxicillin, doxycycline and fluoroquinolones. Severe kidney infections require the administration of intravenous antibiotics.
Some women suffer from chronic or repetitive UTIs. A doctor often recommends a single dose of antibiotics after each episode of sexual intercourse to prevent UTIs. Women suffering from chronic infections eventually are able to diagnose the condition at home. With a doctor's consent, some women can take a three-day course of antibiotics without visiting a medical doctor for an examination.
Pain Relief
Pain medications relieve discomfort and the urge to urinate. Over-the-counter medications include phenazopyridine hydrochloride. The drug numbs the lower part of the bladder and urethra, according to Drugs.com. The website does not recommend taking the medication for longer than two days. The medication does not treat the infection, and antibiotic therapy should continue, advises MedlinePlus. The medication often turns urine a orange, amber or red color, a normal side effect of taking the drug. The colored urine can stain underwear and toilet bowls.
Hydrotherapy
Patients suffering from UTIs should drink plenty of water. Water flushes out bacteria in the urinary tract. Patients with severe infections often receive intravenous fluids during hospitalization. Health Communities' UrologyChannel.com suggests patients drink 16 oz. of unsweetened cranberry or blueberry juice a day. Bacteria do not adhere well to the bladder and lining of the urinary tract with antibacterial properties contained in the juices.
