UTI Treatment

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common health concern that can be quite uncomfortable and interfere with daily activities. If not addressed promptly, UTIs may lead to more serious complications, including kidney infections.

CLS Health provides comprehensive testing and treatment services for UTIs, ensuring quick diagnosis and appropriate care. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms for the first time or are struggling with recurrent infections, our urology team is here to provide the support you need.

What is a UTI

A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria enter the urinary system, resulting in inflammation and infection in the bladder, urethra, ureters, or kidneys. While UTIs can affect anyone, they are more commonly seen in women due to the shorter length of the urethra, which facilitates easier access for bacteria to reach the bladder.

What are the symptoms of a UTI?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) don’t always show noticeable symptoms, but when they do, they may include:

• Frequent urination with a persistent urge to go
• Burning sensation while urinating
• Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine
• Pelvic pain or discomfort, especially in women
• Hematuria (blood in the urine)
• Lower abdominal or back pain
• Fatigue, fever, or chills (in more severe cases)

If a UTI is left untreated, it can progress to a kidney infection, which may cause severe back pain, nausea, vomiting, and a high fever.

Types of Urinary Tract Infections

Not all UTIs are the same. Depending on the affected area, different types of infections can develop:

Cystitis 

Cystitis is the most common type of UTI, affecting the bladder. Symptoms include pelvic pressure, frequent urination, painful urination, and cloudy or bloody urine.

Pyelonephritis

A more serious type of UTI, pyelonephritis, occurs when bacteria travel from the bladder to the kidneys. With this condition, you may experience high fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and intense lower back pain. Prompt treatment is imperative to prevent complications.

Urethritis 

Urethritis is an inflammation of the urethra that can cause a burning sensation during urination and lead to discharge. It often results from bacterial infections or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you encounter burning or severe symptoms, it is advisable to consult your urologist or OB/GYN for further evaluation and testing.

What can cause a UTI?

Several factors contribute to the development of UTIs, including:

• Bacterial entry: The most common cause is E. coli bacteria, which normally reside in the intestines but can enter the urinary tract.
• Sexual activity: Increases the risk of bacteria reaching the urethra.
• Poor hygiene: Wiping from back to front can transfer bacteria.
• Urinary retention: Not fully emptying the bladder can allow bacteria to multiply.
• Certain birth control methods: Spermicides and diaphragms can increase susceptibility.
• Menopause: Lower estrogen levels can alter the vaginal and urinary environment, making infections more likely.

Some individuals experience recurrent UTIs, which may be due to anatomical factors, weakened immune response, or antibiotic resistance. It is best to visit a local urologist if symptoms persist or worsen over time. 

How is UTI diagnosed?

The diagnosis of a UTI involves a combination of symptom assessment and laboratory tests, such as urinalysis, urine culture, or imaging tests. Our urology specialists may perform the following:

• Urinalysis – A rapid test that detects white blood cells, bacteria, and signs of infection in the urine.
• Urine culture – Identifies the specific bacteria causing the infection and helps determine the best UTI medicines.
• Urine PCR testing – A molecular diagnostic technique that can detect bacterial DNA faster and more comprehensively than traditional culture methods, especially valuable in recurrent or complex cases.
• Imaging tests – In recurrent or severe cases, ultrasound or cystogram may be recommended to evaluate the urinary system.
• Cystoscopy – A minimally invasive procedure used to examine the bladder and urethra. It may be recommended during a recurrent UTI workup to identify structural abnormalities or other causes of persistent infection.

Our UTI Treatment & Testing Services

CLS Health’s UTI treatment and diagnostic services address immediate symptoms and help prevent future infections.

Urine test

A urinalysis or urine test strips can detect infection markers such as bacteria, white blood cells, and nitrites.

Urine culture

If an infection is persistent or recurrent, a urine culture helps determine the most effective UTI infection treatment by identifying the specific bacteria present.

Urine PCR testing

This advanced molecular technique detects bacterial DNA rapidly and accurately, offering faster and more comprehensive results (in comparison to urine culture). Especially useful in cases of recurrent or complex infections.

Cystogram

A cystogram is an imaging test that uses contrast dye to assess bladder function and identify structural issues. It is used to diagnose bladder dysfunction, urinary reflux, bladder trauma, structural abnormalities, and causes of urinary incontinence.

Cystoscopy

Cystoscopy allows direct visualization of the bladder and urethra, helping identify abnormalities, inflammation, or anatomical issues in patients with chronic or recurrent UTIs.

Ultrasound

For individuals with frequent UTIs, an ultrasound may be used to evaluate the kidneys and urinary system for abnormalities.

Antibiotics

Most UTI pain treatment involves antibiotics, which are prescribed based on the infection type and severity. Common options include:

• Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid, Macrodantin)
• Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra)
• Fosfomycin (Monurol)
• Cephalexin (Keflex)

If a UTI is caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, alternative treatments may be required,  such as IV antibiotics or a longer course of targeted medication.

Lifestyle Recommendations

Preventive care is key to reducing UTI risk. Our urologists offer guidance on:

• Proper hydration to flush bacteria from the urinary system.
• Urinating after intercourse to help clear bacteria.
• Avoiding irritants like scented hygiene products and spermicides.
• Maintaining good hygiene practices
• Taking dietary supplements such as D-Mannose and high-concentration proanthocyanidins (PACs), including clinical-grade options like ellura, which can help prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract lining.
• Vaginal estrogen therapy for postmenopausal women, which may reduce UTI risk by restoring vaginal pH, improving lubrication, and fortifying atrophied tissues.