Sure Signs You Have an UTI, Say Physicians — Eat This Not That

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By Ghuman

Introduction

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common bacterial infections in the world. They can be painful and uncomfortable, and if left untreated, can lead to serious health complications. Fortunately, there are some telltale signs that you may have a UTI, and if you recognize them, you can seek treatment right away. In this article, we’ll discuss the sure signs that you may have a UTI, according to physicians. We’ll also provide some tips on what to eat and what to avoid if you think you may have a UTI.

Sure Signs You Have an UTI, Say Physicians — Eat This Not That

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common infections, and they can be painful and uncomfortable. But how do you know if you have one? Physicians say there are some sure signs that you may have a UTI.

Painful Urination

One of the most common signs of a UTI is painful urination. This can range from a burning sensation to a sharp pain. If you experience any pain when you urinate, it’s important to see a doctor right away.

Frequent Urination

If you find yourself needing to urinate more often than usual, it could be a sign of a UTI. This is because the infection can cause inflammation in the bladder, which can lead to an increased urge to urinate.

Cloudy or Bloody Urine

If your urine appears cloudy or bloody, it could be a sign of a UTI. This is because the infection can cause the bladder to become inflamed, which can lead to the presence of blood in the urine.

Strong-Smelling Urine

If your urine has a strong odor, it could be a sign of a UTI. This is because the infection can cause the bladder to become inflamed, which can lead to a strong-smelling urine.

Eat This Not That

If you think you may have a UTI, it’s important to make sure you’re eating the right foods. Foods that are high in sugar and processed foods can make UTIs worse, so it’s important to avoid these. Instead, focus on eating foods that are high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Drinking plenty of water can also help flush out the bacteria that can cause UTIs.

Anyone who’s had a UTI knows how painful and annoying they can be. It’s common to feel discomfort in your lower abdomen, pelvic area and even your back and if left untreated, a UTI infection can spread to one or kidneys causing severe damage in some cases. “A UTI, the acronym for urinary tract infection, is one of those pesky urological problems that many people (especially women) will experience, and likely never forget, at least once in their lifetime. In fact, UTIs are responsible for millions of trips to the doctor’s office every year. Understanding why a UTI occurs can go a long way towards preventing the pain and discomfort that can accompany them,” Dr. S. Adam Ramin, MD, urologist and medical director of Urology Cancer Specialists in Los Angeles, CA, tells Eat This, Not That! Health. Dr. Ramin also revealed signs of a UTI to watch out for and how to help prevent one. Read his advice below and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.

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Dr. Ramin shares, “For most healthy people who properly hydrate, urine should be nearly odorless or in some cases should only have a slight scent of ammonia to it. Sometimes, one of the early signs of an impending UTI is a distinctly unusual smell or cloudy appearance of your urine. If you suddenly notice a foul or otherwise unusual smell to it, this may indicate a urinary tract infection or urinary stones, especially if the smell is also accompanied by a cloudy appearance. These signs warrant a trip to your doctor for evaluation. If you can catch it early, there’s a better chance of treating it before more unpleasant symptoms arise.”

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Dr. Ramin says, “Those less-than-pleasant UTI symptoms may include abdominal pain, a burning feeling while urinating, and/or the urge to urinate frequently, even if the output is minimal or non-existent.” 

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“You may also find you have less control over your bladder during a UTI episode,” Dr. Ramin states. “Urinary tract infections that have reached the kidneys can include the above referenced symptoms and are frequently also accompanied by back pain and fever.”

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According to Dr. Ramin, “At the first sign of UTI symptoms, it’s important to get in touch with a health provider as soon as possible. Especially for expectant mothers, a UTI can be dangerous for both mother and child. So, getting in touch with your OB/GYN right away is prudent. In the case of a bladder infection, these UTIs are usually treated easily with a course of antibiotics and instructions to drink plenty of fluids. In the rarer case that the bacteria reach the kidneys, these UTIs can sometimes be tougher to treat and the infection can require more intensive treatment. In more serious cases of urinary tract infection, antibiotics may need to be administered intravenously and then followed by a course of oral antibiotics for several days to weeks. In all cases, the duration of the treatment will depend largely upon the severity of the infection. And anytime antibiotics have been prescribed to you by a doctor (for any type of infection, really), it is extremely important to finish all the medication at the precise doses prescribed to ensure the infection doesn’t return.”

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Dr. Ramin reveals, “One of the most effective ways to prevent a UTI is to engage in proper hygiene. Thankfully, simple steps like urinating after sex, regularly washing the genital area with a mild soap and warm water, and for women, wiping front to back when you use the restroom can help to keep bacteria out of the urethra. If a diaphragm or spermicidal foam is the birth control method you use and you have had a problem with UTIs, talk to your doctor about other possible birth control options or remain vigilant about hygiene after intercourse. Another fantastic and super-easy tip for preventing a UTI – HYDRATE. Making sure your body has the fluids it needs at the levels needed is the key to so many health attributes and optimal urological health is one of them. Lastly, you should never “hold” your urine for too long or rush through urination. Be sure to “go” as soon as you feel the urge and make a conscious effort to empty the bladder every time you urinate. Both actions can increase the chances of expelling UTI-causing germs from your body, thereby further reducing your risk of developing an infection.”

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