Nothing takes you out of commission quite like a urinary tract infection (UTI) — except for perhaps recurrent UTIs.
Recurrent UTIs can be frustrating and uncomfortable, and you might find yourself wondering why they keep coming back. If you spot the tell-tale signs of a UTI, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Walker Family Care team in Little River, South Carolina.
We reserve appointments each day for sick visits, so you can get the care you need when you need it most.
In the meantime, here’s a look at what might be causing your recurrent UTIs and what you can do about them, courtesy of Dr. Rogers Walker.
Sometimes, bacteria that cause the infection can hide within your bladder cells and evade antibiotics.
This means that even after you’ve completed a course of treatment, some bacteria may remain, which leads to another infection within two weeks of your first infection. This is known as bacterial persistence.
Bacterial persistence is different from reinfection. A re-infection refers to an infection with a different type of bacteria or an infection that recurs two weeks or more after your initial infection.
Regular follow-ups with Dr. Walker can help you make sure you’ve cleaned your infection.
If you don’t complete your prescribed course of antibiotics, the infection might not be fully eradicated, which can cause it to return. Even if you start to feel better, always take your antibiotics as directed by Dr. Walker.
Your personal hygiene practices can play a significant role in preventing UTIs. Improper wiping, for example, can transfer bacteria from the anal area to the urethra. Make sure to:
UTIs are common in kids, so be sure to refresh these hygiene practices with your kids periodically.
Sexual activity can increase your risk of recurrent UTIs. During intercourse, bacteria from the genital area can be pushed into the urethra and travel up to the bladder.
To reduce this risk, you can:
Practicing good hygiene before and after intercourse can also help you avoid other infections, such as yeast infections.
A note about birth control: Certain contraceptives, such as spermicides and diaphragms, can increase your risk of UTIs. If you’re experiencing recurrent infections and using these methods, consider trying a different method.
Certain medical conditions can increase your risk of recurrent UTIs. This includes diabetes, kidney stones (which can block the urinary tract and provide a place for bacteria to grow), and any other condition that weakens your immune system.
If your recurrent UTIs are related to an underlying condition, the best solution is to work with Dr. Walker to manage that condition.
Your anatomy can also play a role in recurrent UTIs. For instance, women have a shorter urethra than men, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. Although that isn’t a modifiable risk factor, you can focus on the risk factors that you can control.
For women, hormonal changes such as decreased estrogen levels during menopause can increase the risk of recurrent UTIs. The good news is that the treatment for UTIs is the same whether you’re in menopause or not.
If you suspect that you have another UTI, let us know. When you arrive at Walker Family Care, Dr. Walker can confirm your UTI, recommend lab tests, conduct an exam, and review your symptoms.
In addition to prescribing the right antibiotics, he can also provide specific lifestyle modifications to help target what’s triggering your recurrent infections and help manage underlying conditions like diabetes.
Questions about UTIs? Give us a call at 843-280-8333, or click here to schedule an appointment today.
