The food and drink we ingest create waste, and our bodies need to remove that waste. For that to work properly, our urinary system (bladder, ureters, kidneys, renal arteries and veins, and urethra) filters everything and releases what our body doesn’t need. Infection in any part of the urinary tract (UTIs) can upset the balance and lead to problems for both sexes. Although more common in women because of their shorter urethras, UTIs are nonetheless a high risk for men over 50 because of prostate problems.
UTIs are common and highly treatable, but sometimes they recur. What causes this, and can you prevent it? We can help you better understand how recurrent UTIs happen and give you some important tips on what you can do to lower the risk that they’ll continue.
Patients in the Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach and South Florida areas dealing with the unpleasant symptoms of UTIs can get help from Drs. Craig Herman and Steven Kester and the experienced medical staff at the Urology Center of Florida.
UTIs occur when bacteria enter the body through the urethra. The most common of these bacteria is Escherichia coli (E. coli), but other bacteria can also be responsible. Among these are Enterococcus faecalis, Klebsiella, Proteus mirabilis, and Staphylococcus. Several factors can increase your chances of these bacteria entering your body, including sexual activity, kidney stones, diabetes, catheter use, menopause, poor hygiene, and birth control methods like diaphragms and spermicide.
Once infected, painful or burning sensations while urinating become more frequent, along with a strong urge to urinate, pressure or pain in the lower abdomen, blood in your urine (hematuria), cloudy or milky urine, or foul-smelling urine.
Also referred to as frequent, chronic, or persistent, recurrent UTIs are so labeled when they happen two or more times in six months, or three times or more times within a year. Chronic UTIs can recur as soon as a month after being treated and can happen because of several underlying issues, such as:
Medication can relieve symptoms and address the underlying cause. These include antibiotics, vaginal estrogen therapy, supplements, and antibacterial antiseptic medications. To prevent issues with UTIs coming back, you can:
UTIs can be frustrating to manage, but if you’re struggling with chronic infections, make an appointment by calling or messaging the Urology Center of Florida.
