What Causes Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections?

Urinary tract infections are caused by bacteria that can build up in any portion of the urinary tract, whether it’s your kidneys, your bladder, or your urethra. When your system becomes overloaded with bacteria, infection results and you find yourself dealing with symptoms such as irritation, pain, and fever. You are at a greater risk of developing recurrent urinary tract infections if you are a woman, especially if you are approaching menopause. Hormonal imbalances in your body can result in a battle with bacteria in your urinary tract.

What to Do About Your Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections?

You know the drill when it comes to typical treatment for a urinary tract infection. Your urine is tested and you’re prescribed an antibiotic for one week. When it becomes a chronic problem, you need to take further steps to deal with your infections. One alternative may be to continue antibiotics for more than one week. If menopause is a part of the problem, learn about options to put your hormonal balance back on track when it comes to the delicate, vaginal tissues. Lifestyle changes are often effective, such as drinking cranberry juice on a daily basis. Other steps you can take to help yourself include wearing underwear that is made from cotton and is lightweight. Wear loose clothing as well. Don’t use anything with chemicals or perfumes that could cause irritation. Stay hydrated and pay attention to your body. If your symptoms come back, be sure to let us know.

Talk to a Physician About Handling Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections

The most important thing you need to remember is that you shouldn’t ignore your symptoms. If you suspect that you have another infection in your urinary tract, you need to contact the office of Dr. Sherry Thomas today. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your options and help you provide relief. Stick with our instructions to get a handle on your urinary tract infection for good.

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Kidney or bladder stones

Kidney stones are crystals that form into calcified deposits that may remain in the kidney or work their way into the bladder or urinary tract. A UTI can develop when the stone blocks part or all of the urinary tract, as this leads to the formation of bacteria in the backed up urine. These stones can be diagnosed by blood, urine, or imaging tests.

Bladder stones, although much rarer, can cause the same symptoms that lead to recurrent UTIs as kidney stones. Both types of stones are treated with some type of destruction, often using a laser or sound waves, or removal via surgery.

Intercourse

Having sex, especially with a new partner, puts women at risk for developing a UTI. This occurs because the bacteria from the male present on the urethra comes into contact with the female genitalia, allowing the bacteria access to the urethra, urinary tract, and even the bladder.

While intercourse has the potential to keep UTIs coming back, there are steps that can be taken to minimize this risk. Urinating before and after sex, cleaning the genitals before and after sex, and avoiding use of a diaphragm or spermicide are all ways to decrease the risk.

Low estrogen

Decreased estrogen levels, especially those found in post-menopausal women, can lead to frequent UTIs. This is because estrogen has been found to increase the production of natural antimicrobial materials. Post-menopausal UTIs have traditionally been treated with antibiotics, but in many cases the infections recur after antibiotic therapy is completed.

Hormone replacement therapy may offer a reduced risk of infections, but this type of therapy has some risks associated with it and should be discussed with a physician. This is especially true in women with a history of breast cancer or heart disease.

Unusual urinary tract shape

When the urinary tract has an unusual shape there is the potential for the obstruction of urine and the development of bacteria behind the blockage. Depending upon the type of abnormality, treatment may range from catheterization to surgery. Regardless of the type of abnormality, it is important to know all the options available.

If UTIs are becoming a regular occurrence, it is time to look at treatments other than repeated courses of antibiotics. Talk to a professional to get a clear idea of the causes of the recurrences and the options available to treat them. Doctor Sherry Thomas is a seasoned urogynecologist who specializes in treating women’s health issues, including urinary tract infections.  Contact Dr. Sherry’s office today to schedule your consultation. We can answer any questions you may have, and we can help determine the best course of treatment for you and your needs.

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