A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection affecting any part of the urinary system, including the bladder, urethra, ureters or kidneys. Urinary infections are common and can usually be treated effectively when diagnosed appropriately.
At Divine Care Clinic, Dr. Jaspreet Singh Chhabra provides evaluation and urological care for urinary infections, recurrent infections and urinary symptoms requiring specialist assessment.
A urinary tract infection occurs when microorganisms, most commonly bacteria, enter and multiply within the urinary tract.
An infection may involve the lower urinary tract, such as the bladder and urethra, or may affect the upper urinary tract, including the kidneys. Kidney infections require prompt medical attention.
Urinary infections can occur for different reasons. Factors that may increase the risk include:
Diagnosis is based on the patient's symptoms and, when appropriate, urine testing. Depending on the situation, investigations may include:
Treatment depends on the location and severity of the infection and the patient's individual medical circumstances.
When a bacterial infection is diagnosed or strongly suspected, an appropriate antibiotic may be prescribed by a qualified medical professional. The choice of treatment may depend on the clinical situation and urine culture results when available.
If infections keep returning, it is important to investigate whether an underlying condition such as urinary obstruction, stones or incomplete bladder emptying is contributing to the problem.
Repeated urinary infections should not simply be treated without investigating the possible underlying cause. A urological assessment may help identify factors that are contributing to recurrent infections.
Fever with chills, significant side or back pain, vomiting, confusion, severe weakness or symptoms suggesting a kidney infection require prompt medical assessment.
Consult a urologist if urinary infections are recurrent, symptoms do not improve with treatment, there is blood in the urine, urinary obstruction is suspected or an underlying urinary tract problem is suspected.