Urinary Tract Infections Treated in Tampa, FL
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) develop when bacteria get into the urethra, bladder, ureters, and/or kidneys. Comprising the urinary tract, these organs produce urine and pass it out of the body. UTIs are common, and most are caused by bacteria that normally live in the gastrointestinal system. Due to the short distance between the anus and urethra, these bacteria can easily make their way into the urinary tract.
Certain types of bacteria that are typically found in the digestive system are harmless and can even aid digestion. However, they can still cause problems if they enter the urethra. Once there, the bacteria can reproduce, create toxins, cause inflammation, and possibly spread to the bladder, ureters, and kidneys, causing a more serious UTI.
Like other bacterial infections, most UTIs require antibiotic treatment, which must be prescribed by a doctor. Therefore, if you think you might have a urinary tract infection, it is best to seek professional medical attention. You can receive a prompt urinalysis and effective UTI treatment at South Tampa Immediate Care in Tampa, Florida.
How to Recognize a Urinary Tract Infection
The most common sign of a urinary tract infection is burning during urination. Other symptoms can include:
- Urine that is cloudy, red, pink, or cola-colored
- Urine that has a strong odor
- A persistent urge to urinate
- Frequent passage of a small amount of urine
- Pelvic pain or pressure
Additionally, a UTI in the kidneys can pain in the low back, side, or groin, along with fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting. Because a kidney infection can lead to serious complications, such as kidney damage and sepsis, prompt treatment is essential.
How to Resolve a Urinary Tract Infection
If your provider at South Tampa Immediate Care diagnoses you with a UTI and prescribes an antibiotic to treat it, it will be important for you to take the medication exactly as directed. Even if you start to feel better right away (which is possible because antibiotics tend to work quickly), you should still complete the entire course of antibiotics, which is necessary to ensure the infection is resolved.
While it is always important to drink plenty of water to stay well-hydrated, it is especially so as you recover from a urinary tract infection. The water will dilute your urine and reduce the concentration of bacteria in your urinary tract. It will also cause you to urinate more and help flush the bacteria out of your body.
If you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection, come to South Tampa Immediate Care right away. Our walk-in clinic is conveniently located at 602 S. Howard Ave. in Tampa, FL, and our experienced team is available to treat UTIs every day during extended hours. If you would like, you can make a reservation online before you come in.
