If you have ever experienced a urinary tract infection, or UTI, then you are probably very familiar with its unpleasant symptoms. It is important to seek treatment from a Georgia urology specialist at the first sign of a UTI because delayed treatment can result in a more severe infection or spread of the infection to the kidneys. Here are some ways your urologist can diagnose and treat your urinary tract infection.
Diagnosing Urinary Tract Infections
Your urologist will ask you about your symptoms, and if you report signs and symptoms such as pain or burning upon urination, blood in the urine, cloudy urine, bladder pain, or urinary frequency, they may determine that you have a urinary tract infection. Your healthcare provider will also request a urine sample from you so that it can be tested for signs of bacteria, blood, and elevated protein levels. In addition to the aforementioned signs and symptoms, a urinary tract infection can cause systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, and body aches.
Treating Urinary Tract Infections
Because urinary tract infections are typically caused by bacteria, your Georgia urology physician will probably prescribe antibiotics. You will need to finish your entire course of antibiotics even if you feel better after only a couple of doses. In addition to antibiotic therapy, your healthcare provider may recommend drinking plenty of water throughout the day to help flush toxins out of your body and minimize the risk of dehydration while you have an infection.
