Urinary Tract Infections in Lawrence, KS

A urinary tract infection (UTI) affects the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. Sometimes called a bladder infection, this acute issue is more common in women than men. The compassionate team at Lawrence Family Practice Center provides same-day appointments and effective treatments for urinary tract infections. If you have symptoms of a UTI, get in touch with our office in Lawrence, KS, to schedule an urgent care visit today.

UTIs can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms that vary in intensity depending on the severity of the infection. Recognizing these symptoms early can help you seek timely treatment and prevent complications. Common symptoms of a UTI include:

• A strong, persistent urge to urinate
• A burning sensation during urination
• Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
• Blood in the urine (may appear pink or red)
• Pelvic pain, especially in women, near the bladder area
• Fatigue or a general feeling of being unwell

UTIs happen when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and multiply in the bladder. While the urinary system is designed to keep out such bacteria, these defenses can sometimes fail.

Common causes of UTIs include:

• Sexual activity: Sexual intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract.
• Certain types of birth control: Women who use diaphragms or spermicidal agents are at higher risk.
• Menopause: A decline in circulating estrogen causes changes in the urinary tract that make it more vulnerable to infection.
• Urinary tract abnormalities: Babies born with urinary tract abnormalities that don't allow urine to leave the body normally can have issues.
• Blockages in the urinary tract: Kidney stones or an enlarged prostate can trap urine in the bladder and increase the risk of UTIs.
• A suppressed immune system: Conditions like diabetes can impair the immune system, making it harder to fight off infections.

Urinary tract infections are treated during urgent care visits at Lawrence Family Practice Center. Your doctor will talk with you about your symptoms and health history. A urine sample will be taken that will allow us to detect the presence of bacteria that are involved with a urinary tract infection. Because UTIs are typically bacterial infections, most simple cases can be treated with a round of antibiotics. More complicated UTIs might require a longer course of antibiotics, and pain medications can also be prescribed to ease any discomfort, like burning when you urinate. In addition, be sure to drink plenty of water to help your body flush away the bacteria.

Can UTIs be prevented?

Preventative measures include drinking plenty of fluids, urinating frequently, wiping from front to back, emptying the bladder soon after intercourse, and avoiding irritating feminine products. Cranberry products and probiotics may also help prevent UTIs in some individuals.

Are UTIs more common in women?

Yes, women are more prone to UTIs due to their shorter urethra, which allows bacteria quicker access to the bladder. Hormonal changes and sexual activity also contribute to the higher incidence in women.

What complications can arise from untreated UTIs?

Untreated UTIs can lead to recurrent infections, kidney damage, and, in severe cases, sepsis. Prompt treatment is crucial to avoid these complications.

If you have a urinary tract infection that has not cleared up on its own, you can receive the professional attention you need in Lawrence, KS. Our experienced doctors are experts in diagnosing and treating UTIs so you can experience relief from uncomfortable symptoms. Schedule an urgent care appointment at Lawrence Family Practice Center today.