Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
Urinary tract infections typically occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder. Although they can affect any part of your urinary system, most urinary tract infections involve the lower urinary tract — the bladder and the urethra. Recurrent urinary tract infections are defined as 2 or more infections in 6 months or 4 or more in 1 year.
Urinary tract infections are relatively common among women of all ages. Risk factors include genetics, sexual intercourse, pelvic anatomy, urinary retention and menopause. UTIs don’t always cause signs and symptoms, but when they do these may include:
- A strong, persistent urge to urinate
- A burning sensation when urinating
- Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
- Urine that appears cloudy
- Urine that appears red, bright pink or cola-colored — a sign of blood in the urine
- Strong-smelling urine
- Pelvic pain — especially in the center of the pelvis and around the area of the pubic bone
When treated promptly and properly, lower urinary tract infections rarely lead to complications. But left untreated, a urinary tract infection can have serious consequences, such as:.
- Permanent kidney damage from an acute or chronic kidney infection
- Increased risk in pregnant women of delivering low birth weight or premature infants
- Sepsis, a potentially life-threatening complication of an infection
Contact our office for an appointment if you have recurrent urinary tract infections. Let us help treat and prevent them from happening again.