Urinary tract infections are usually caused by bacteria in the bladder, one of the kidneys or one of the tubes that connect them to each other or the outside of the body. The body's natural processes usually eliminate bacteria before they can cause an infection, according to Medline Plus, a website maintained by the National Institutes of Health. Those with urinary tract infections develop symptoms that often cause them to seek medical treatment, including antibiotics.
Symptoms Requiring Treatment
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection include pain or stinging during urination, a frequent need to urinate and a need to urinate immediately. The urine may look or smell unusual, and the sufferer may have a fever and pain in the side, pelvis or back. An elderly person may become confused, explains Medline Plus.
Common UTI Antibiotics
Fluoroquinolones are often prescribed for a UTI, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. Ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin and ofloxacin are common choices in this category. A combination antibiotic containing trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole is also used to treat this condition. Other antibiotic options include beta-lactam medications, nitrofurantoin, tetracycline products and other drugs. Aminoglycosides are used to treat serious urinary tract infections, and penicillins are used to treat both serious and mild infections. Some antibiotics may be given as a shot into the muscle or an infusion into the vein instead of by mouth.
Usage Instructions
Physician and pharmacist advice should be followed regarding when to take antibiotics. Some should be taken on an empty stomach, while others should be taken only with food. A full glass of water should be consumed when taking most antibiotics. The entire course of antibiotics should be taken even though symtoms may improve quickly. Treatment times range from one dose to several weeks of therapy. The prescriber should be contacted if symptoms worsen or do not improve within a few days.
Side Effects
Side effects vary by antibiotic class, but common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, eye sensitivity to sunlight, rash and headache. It is possible to have a severe allergic reaction to an antibiotic, manifested by life-threatening shock with symptoms of dizziness, low-blood pressure, loss of consciousness and a rapid, faint pulse. An antibiotic allergy may also cause the lips, tongue or throat to swell, which can lead to difficulty breathing.
UTI Complications
A urinary tract infection that goes untreated may lead to complications, including kidney damage and a life-threatening infection in the bloodstream. Occasionally, complications develop despite treatment. This is more common in the elderly and those with a compromised immune system.
References
- "Medical-Surgical Nursing"; Donna Ignatavicius, M.S., R.N. and Linda Workman, Ph.D., R.N.; 2002
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Urinary Tract Infection - Medications
- GlobalRPh.com: Urinary Tract Infections
- MedlinePlus: Urinary Tract Infections - Adults
