Urinary Tract Infection and STD

A urinary tract infection (UTI) can cause uncomfortable symptoms that require quick relief. Look to Swift Solutions Medical Center in Hampton, Georgia, for expert medical intervention. Nadine Opong, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, offers telehealth appointments where she can learn of your symptoms and prescribe the necessary treatment to get you well. If you have a UTI, call or book a virtual appointment through the online portal today.

An STD, or Sexually Transmitted Disease, is an infection that is primarily spread through sexual contact. This category of infections includes bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can be transmitted through various forms of sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Some STDs can also be spread through non-sexual means, such as from mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth, through blood transfusions, or by sharing needles.

STDs are known by several names, including Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), venereal diseases, and genitourinary infections. The term STI is often used interchangeably with STD, though some professionals prefer "STI" because it emphasizes the infection aspect, which can exist without disease symptoms.

What is a urinary tract infection?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that affects any part of your urinary system, which includes your kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.

UTIs are commonly caused by bacteria entering your urinary tract through your urethra and multiplying in your bladder. While UTIs are more prevalent in women, men and children can also develop them.

What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection?

Symptoms of a UTI can vary depending on which part of your urinary tract is infected, but common signs include:

• Frequent and urgent need to urinate
• Burning sensation during urination
• Pain or discomfort in your lower abdomen or pelvic area
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Blood in the urine (hematuria)
• Feeling tired or unwell
  

Fever or chills may develop if the infection spreads to your kidneys.

What causes a urinary tract infection?

Several factors can contribute to the development of a urinary tract infection. The most common cause is bacteria from the bowel entering the urinary tract through the urethra. Other risk factors include:

• Sexual activity, which can introduce bacteria into your urinary tract
• Birth control options like spermicides or diaphragms
• Menopause, which can lead to changes in your urinary tract that increase your risk of infection
• Conditions that affect your immune system, such as diabetes or HIV/AIDS

You can also develop a UTI from blockages in your urinary tract caused by issues like kidney stones or an enlarged prostate.

How is a urinary tract infection treated?

At Swift Solutions Medical Center, Nadine typically treats urinary tract infections with antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection. The type of antibiotic she prescribes and the duration of treatment may vary depending on the severity of your infection and your medical history. 

When taking antibiotics, it’s essential to complete the full course as prescribed, even if your symptoms improve before you finish the medication, to ensure that the infection is fully cleared.

In addition to antibiotics, drinking plenty of fluids can help flush bacteria out of your urinary tract. Nadine may also recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate discomfort during urination. 

In some cases, especially if your infection is recurrent, further evaluation may be necessary to identify underlying factors contributing to UTIs and develop strategies for prevention.

Preventing STDs involves practicing safe sex, including the use of condoms and dental dams, getting vaccinated (e.g., against HPV and hepatitis B), limiting the number of sexual partners, and getting regular STD screenings. Most STDs can be treated or managed with medications, such as antibiotics for bacterial infections or antiviral drugs for viral infections. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term health problems and to stop the spread of STDs to others.

If you have a UTI or an STD, don’t hesitate to book a telehealth appointment with Nadine by calling or booking online today.