Urinary Tract Infection Management

Princeton Sports and Family Medicine, P.C.

Sports Medicine & Primary Care Practice located in Lawrenceville, NJ

Feeling like you need to urinate all the time and experiencing a burning sensation when you do so are signs of a urinary tract infection, a serious and often painful condition that needs treatment. The team at Princeton Sports and Family Medicine, P.C. in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, treats urinary tract infections in women, men, and children ages 15 and older. If you think you have a urinary tract infection, call the office or book an appointment online today.

267-754-2187

Urinary Tract Infection Q & A

What is a urinary tract infection?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common health problem that occurs when part of your urinary tract becomes infected, usually by bacteria.

The urinary tract includes your urethra (the tube that carries urine out of your body), bladder, kidneys, and ureters (the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder).

A UTI can affect any part of the urinary tract, but it develops most commonly in the bladder. Infections that begin in the bladder can spread to other parts of the urinary tract, such as the kidneys. Without treatment, a UTI can lead to permanent kidney damage.

Who gets urinary tract infections?

Anyone can get a UTI, but they’re up to 30 times more common in women than men. About 50-60% of women experience a UTI at some point in their lives.

Women have shorter urethras than men, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach a woman’s bladder. Additionally, certain risk factors for UTIs are specific to women’s health, such as hormonal changes that happen during menopause.

How do I know if I have a urinary tract infection?

Signs and symptoms of a UTI depend on where in the urinary tract the infection occurs. An infection in the lower urinary tract, which includes the bladder and urethra, can cause the following signs and symptoms:

Frequent and intense urges to urinate
Urinating very small amounts
A burning sensation when you urinate
Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic area
Blood in the urine
Foul-smelling urine

Symptoms of a kidney infection include a high fever, shaking, chills, nausea and vomiting. Call Princeton Sports and Family Medicine, P.C. right away if you experience any of these symptoms.

How are urinary tract infections diagnosed and treated?

First, your Princeton Sports and Family Medicine, P.C. provider carefully reviews your symptoms and medical history and performs a physical exam. They can confirm the presence of a UTI with a urine test.

Treatment for a UTI usually involves taking medication to fight the infection. Your provider may advise you on steps you can take to prevent UTIs in the future, such as drinking plenty of water.

Don’t delay in seeking treatment for a urinary tract infection — call Princeton Sports and Family Medicine, P.C., or book an appointment online today.