Urinary tract infections are incredibly common and affect millions of Americans each year.
Their symptoms, such as a burning sensation during urination and the frequent urge to urinate, typically improve after a round of antibiotics. However, in some cases, they persist and can significantly affect quality of life.
At Associated Urologists of North Carolina, PA, with offices in Cary, Clayton, Dunn, Raleigh, and Wake Forest, North Carolina, our expert urology team regularly treats both urinary tract infections and recurrent UTIs.
Read on to learn more about common UTI symptoms, why recurrent UTIs happen, and conditions that may present similar symptoms.
A UTI occurs when bacteria enter your urethra, the tube where urine exits your body, and infect your bladder or other parts of your lower urinary tract. In some cases, the infection can spread to the kidneys, especially if it’s left untreated.
UTIs affect people of all ages and genders, but they’re particularly common in women because of their anatomy. The vagina and anus are relatively close together, so it’s easier for bacteria, such as E. coli, to enter the urethra and cause an infection.
Regardless of who has a UTI, symptoms often include:
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek treatment immediately. The sooner an infection is diagnosed, the sooner you can take medication to feel better.
Most UTIs improve within five to seven days after you begin taking antibiotics, but in some cases, symptoms persist. This can happen for several reasons. For instance, sometimes antibiotics don’t fully clear an infection and enough bacteria remain in the urinary system to trigger ongoing burning or discomfort.
At other times, symptoms persist due to reinfection, antibiotic resistance, or irritation that lingers even after the infection has cleared.
No matter the cause, symptoms that persist after antibiotics should be evaluated. Waiting too long or delaying treatment can increase the risk of complications and affect your overall health.
Sometimes, ongoing UTI symptoms are caused by another medical issue altogether. Conditions that may present similar symptoms include:
Certain lifestyle factors can also affect urination and how your urinary system feels.
For example, if you don’t drink plenty of fluids throughout the day or tend to hold urine for long periods before using the toilet, you may be more likely to experience urinary discomfort or irritation.
Persistent UTI symptoms can be uncomfortable and keep you from your favorite activities. If you’re struggling to determine the cause, even after taking antibiotics, don’t wait to get in touch.
To make an appointment with our experienced urologists, call the nearest office in Cary, Clayton, Dunn, Raleigh, or Wake Forest, North Carolina, or schedule online today.
