Urinary Tract Infection (Chronic Cystitis)

Some people have a higher chance of getting urinary tract infections. Researchers are trying to figure out why. Different things can play a role. In some cases, there might be something weird going on with the urinary tract. But for most people, it's not that. Factors like our immune systems, urinary tract lining, and bacteria types contribute to UTIs. As we learn more, we can find ways to prevent them. Hopefully, ongoing research will give us answers soon!

To care for our patients, we recommend drinking more water. It's simple but effective, especially for women in menopause. Vaginal estrogen is also beneficial. Studies show both can reduce UTI recurrence.

After we tackle those important points, there are a bunch of other things we can chat about, each with varying levels of evidence. For starters, we'll discuss things like controlling constipation and maintaining good urinary habits. Some folks find that taking daily antibiotics or using them after certain activities that trigger their UTIs works for them. But hey, there are also non-antibiotic options like methenamine and d-mannose that we can explore.

UTI causes are often talked about, but not always backed by research. One study found that women with recurring UTIs were more likely to have frequent sex, new partners, use spermicide, and oral birth control. Peeing before and after sex, using hot tubs, and wearing pantyhose didn't show a connection. It's important to note that triggers can vary, so patients should listen to their bodies and find what works for them.

UTIs can resolve on their own, but it takes time. Medications like phenazopyridine or ibuprofen can help manage symptoms. Drinking more water can also provide relief. Read my article "Are antibiotics for a UTI always necessary" for more information. Consult your doctor for the best treatment options, as everyone is different. Safety is important.

To understand how diet affects UTIs, look at water intake. By drinking more water, people can reduce the number of recurring UTIs. Probiotics may also lower the risk of UTI recurrences. Cranberry is commonly recommended, but its effectiveness is unclear. More research is needed to explore the connection between diet and UTIs.

You may or may not. We see this very often and it may be due to residual inflammation as well as habits that formed during the urinary tract infection episode. Many patients report that they are still urinating more frequently than normal. Some people will point out that this is most bothersome before bed when they aren’t distracted by something else. For this we often discuss bladder training. Over time this usually resolves and if it doesn’t then perhaps there is a different diagnosis besides urinary tract infections. When in doubt it is always best to discuss your symptoms with a doctor, so book an appointment today!

This is called asymptomatic bacteriuria and is not actually a urinary tract infection. Historically, there was an idea that any bacteria detected in the urine was a urinary tract infection. However, now we understand that some people have bacteria in the urine without causing any problems. Research has shown that in non-pregnant women this generally does not cause any problems. In fact, treating it with antibiotics can increase the risk of getting a true symptomatic urinary tract infection in addition to the risks of taking an unnecessary course of antibiotics. The Infectious Disease Society of America has put out guidelines specifically recommending against screening for or treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria except in the case of pregnant women or patients who are going to have certain urologic procedures.

This may be confusing because sometimes people have a positive urine culture with vague or chronic urinary tract symptoms. In general this is not considered a urinary tract infection eUrinary tract infections (UTIs) can sometimes be confusing, especially when individuals have positive urine cultures but experience vague or chronic urinary tract symptoms. However, it's important to note that these symptoms alone are not considered a UTI. In order to diagnose a UTI, it is crucial to look for the acute onset of symptoms like increased frequency, urgency, and a burning sensation during urination.

In certain cases, a positive culture can occur without any symptoms if the urine specimen is contaminated. The presence of certain types of cells in the urine analysis can indicate contamination. Additionally, if the culture shows the growth of various bacteria or bacteria commonly found on the skin, it is considered a contaminant. It is crucial to follow the instructions for obtaining a clean midstream urine specimen. To minimize the risk of contamination, always use a sterile cup. Women should carefully clean the area by spreading the labia apart and using the provided wipes, wiping from front to back. Start by urinating a little into the toilet and then collect the specimen in the cup. However, despite best efforts, there are instances where the specimen remains contaminated. In such cases, it may be recommended to collect a catheterized specimen to ensure an uncontaminated sample and facilitate an accurate diagnosis.

It is important to note that experiencing another urinary tract infection (UTI) should not be a cause for discouragement. For individuals prone to recurrent UTIs, it may take some time to reduce their frequency, and it may not always be possible to eliminate them entirely. Setting realistic expectations is crucial.

When treating patients with recurrent UTIs, our primary goal is to decrease the number of infections, prolong the time between occurrences, and minimize the need for frequent antibiotic courses. During consultations, we provide guidance on how to manage future UTIs, ensuring that subsequent episodes have a lesser impact on their daily lives.

Over time, patients may identify certain triggers that contribute to UTIs, which can further aid in reducing the recurrence of these infections.

Recurrent infections can be a significant concern for many patients who have been battling them for a long time. It's not uncommon for these patients to feel embarrassed or nervous when discussing their complaints. However, it's important to note that recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) are more common than most people realize. While many are aware of UTIs in women, they may not be aware that recurrent UTIs are also prevalent.

Studies suggest that between a quarter and half of women who experience a UTI will go on to suffer from recurrent UTIs. Although it may be surprising that such a common problem still holds many uncertainties, ongoing research and increased awareness are expected to address these gaps in knowledge.