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Urinary Tract Infection

Diagnosis and treatment of bacterial infections affecting the urethra, bladder, or kidneys.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Urinary Tract Infection?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are bacterial infections affecting the urethra (urethritis), bladder (cystitis), or kidneys (pyelonephritis). They are much more common in women than in men due to anatomical structure; approximately 50% of women experience at least one UTI in their lifetime.

Although the most common agent is E. coli (over 80%), Klebsiella, Proteus, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus are also among the microorganisms encountered. Cystitis is a lower UTI limited to the bladder and urethra; pyelonephritis is an upper UTI and forms a more serious picture with fever and flank pain.

Antibiotic therapy is standard; however, due to increasing antibiotic resistance, planning treatment according to culture results is important. In recurrent UTIs, underlying anatomical or metabolic causes should be investigated.

Symptoms

Burning and pain during urination
Frequent and urgent urination sensation
Cloudy, dark, or foul-smelling urine
Blood in urine (hematuria)
Groin pain and lower abdominal pain
Fever, chills, and flank pain (pyelonephritis)
Nausea and vomiting (kidney involvement)

Risk Factors

Female sex and sexual activity
Decreased estrogen after menopause
Urinary catheter and urological procedures
Diabetes and immune system suppression
Kidney stones and anatomical anomalies of the urinary tract
Antibiotic use that disrupts the intestinal flora
Spermicide use

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If fever and flank pain accompany (suspected pyelonephritis)
  • If symptoms do not resolve in 2-3 days
  • Any UTI symptom in men
  • In pregnant women
  • In recurrent infections (2+ attacks per year)

Treatment Methods

01
Antibiotic therapy (according to culture result — fosfomycin, nitrofurantoin, TMP-SMX)
02
Plenty of fluid consumption
03
Medications containing phenazopyridine for pain management (short-term)
04
Parenteral antibiotic and hospitalization for pyelonephritis (if needed)
05
Prophylactic antibiotics or urinary acidifier in recurrent UTIs
06
Probiotic and cranberry preparations (for preventive purposes — supportive)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.