Urinary Tract Infection

At Persona MD, Dr. Taher Sobhy specializes in treating urinary tract infections, STDs, and other types of infections. He serves the residents of Libertyville, Gurnee, and many other Illinois communities.

What Causes Urinary Tract Infections?

Urinary tract infections are caused by bacteria that enters the urethra and bladder. This results in inflammation and infection. Women who are sexually active are at a greater risk of developing UTIs than those who are not sexually active. In addition, UTIs are more prevalent among menopausal women due to the decrease in their estrogen levels.

What Are Common Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection?

The most common urinary tract infection is the infection in the bladder. The symptoms of a bladder infection include pain in the lower abdomen, burning sensation during urination, a frequent urge to urinate, and sometimes even blood in the urine. The inflammation caused by the infection may cause a person to feel as if they constantly have go to the restroom, only to go and produce very little urine. Other symptoms include strong-smelling urine, pelvic pain, and mid-back pain. The symptoms of a urinary tract infection may be quite mild at first, but as the infection worsens, they will intensify rather quickly.

How Are Urinary Tract Infections Treated?

Most urinary tract infections are bacterial by nature. Doctors will often recommend an increased fluid intake as well as a course of antibiotics. Drinking cranberry juice may help prevent urinary tract infections, but taking cranberry extract pills is better due to the sugar content in the juice. Both cranberries and blueberries can prevent bacteria from sticking to the lining of the urinary tract. Taking vitamin C daily can acidify the urine, which prevents bacterial overgrowth in the bladder. Drinking enough water every day, staying active, and cutting down sugar intake are all great ways to keep yourself healthy.

Are Urinary Tract Infections Contagious?

Urinary tract infections are normally not contagious unless they are associated with sexually transmitted diseases. Depending on your age and sexual history, your doctor will decide whether to consider an STD as a cause of the UTI and run some tests to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment caused by an STD will be different. If an STD is involved, sexual partners should also be treated.