Urinary Tract Infection

What is a urinary tract infection?

A UTI, short for Urinary Tract Infection, is a condition that results from an infection in the urinary system. This infection may occur in the ureters, urethra, or bladder, though they are typically present in the lower urinary tract. Women of all ages can develop a urinary tract infection, and should seek professional assistance as soon as possible to avoid the infection spreading to the kidneys; which can have serious consequences.

Female with perfect abdomen muscles

What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection?

Patients with the following symptoms may be experiencing problems associated with a UTI:

  • Burning sensation during urination
  • Uncontrollable, persistent need to urinate
  • Frequently urinating small amounts
  • Urine that is cloudy, red, or has a potent smell
  • Pain in the bladder and pelvic region

If the infection has spread to the kidneys, different symptoms may arise, and patients should seek medical treatment as soon as possible:

  • Pain in the flank (side and upper back area)
  • High fever
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Uncontrollable shaking
  • Chills

How can a patient treat a urinary tract infection?

Effective treatments for urinary tract infections typically involve antibiotics since the infection is caused by bacteria, which may enter the urinary tract and multiply within the bladder. The infection can also be caused by STDs and sexual intercourse. Kidney stones, birth control, menopause, and suppressed immune systems can increase one’s risk for developing a UTI. Pinpointing the direct cause of the bladder infection can help patients maintain their pelvic health and avoid future infections.

Dr. Gandhi wants to assist patients who are dealing with conditions such as urinary tract infections, and is happy to provide discreet, compassionate care for women who visit his practice at Partners in Pelvic Health North Shore Urogynecology. As a partner in his patient’s pelvic health, Dr. Gandhi is committed to providing the best in care for urological and gynecological conditions.

If you have been experiencing any of the above symptoms and believe you may be suffering from a urinary tract infection, early diagnosis and treatment is necessary to discourage the condition from spreading to the kidneys and causing problems that are more serious. Call Dr. Gandhi today to schedule your consultation appointment and physical examination to receive a proper diagnosis and develop a treatment plan right for you.

Sanjay Gandhi, M.D.

Sanjay Gandhi, M.D.
Partners in Pelvic Health North Shore Urogynecology

Conditions affecting the female pelvis are the focus at Partners in Pelvic Health North Shore Urogynecology. We provide effective solutions for these problems from our offices at Park City, Woodstock, and Lake Forest in Illinois.

Our team is headed by Sanjay Gandhi, MD, Urogynecologist. Dr. Gandhi’s specialized education included a residency in gynecology and obstetrics at Northwestern University and a three-year urogynecology fellowship. He is among a few in the country to pass the first examination in Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery (URPS) of The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He also teaches healthcare students.