The bladder is a vital part of the detoxifying system of the body. Urine is stored in the bladder and finally eliminated through the urethra. When functioning correctly, bacteria is kept from entering the urethra into the bladder by the urine flushing them out. If bacteria find a way to enter the bladder, it can result in a urinary tract infection. As part of our gynecology services at FEM Women’s Wellness, we offer urinary tract infections (UTIs) treatment at our facility in the Reno and Lake Tahoe, NV, area.
Female UTI Causes and Symptoms
Women are more prone to urinary tract infections than men due to their anatomy. The opening of the urethra is located at the opening of the vagina and in close proximity to the anus. This allows bacteria to easily be introduced to the urethra opening from sexual activity and bowel movements. Once inside the urethra, it is a shorter trip to the bladder than it is for men, which is why more women have UTIs than men.
UTIs can involve multiple organs. The most common UTIs affect the urethra and bladder. If treatment is received right away, a UTI can be stopped from continuing further into the urinary tract. However, if the infection is not stopped, it can travel to the kidneys and cause a more serious infection.
Symptoms of a UTI differ depending on what organs are involved. A UTI in the urethra and bladder can have the following symptoms:
- Increased urge to urinate
- Pain or burning when urinating
- Discharge from the urethra
- Pain and pressure in the pelvic region
- Blood in urine
If the infection is allowed to travel into the kidneys, pain may be felt in the lower back and side. Patients with a UTI in the kidneys may have a fever and chills, as well as nausea and vomiting. Kidney infections can damage the kidneys and cause serious complications.
The first line of treatment for UTIs is antibiotics. This can stop the symptoms and kill the bacteria in most UTIs in the bladder and urethra. Some severe UTIs that are in the kidneys may require IV antibiotics or hospitalization, which is why it is important to seek treatment right away if you have UTI symptoms. Contact us at FEM Women’s Wellness if you have UTI symptoms – call our office in the Carson City, Reno and Lake Tahoe area to book your appointment.