Los Robles Hospital & Medical Center Blog Should you be worried about a UTI?

Urinary tract infections are most common in women. In fact, over half of all women will get UTI symptoms at least once during their lifetime. This type of infection may affect any part of the urinary system, including the bladder, kidneys, ureter and urethra. Occasionally, a UTI can lead to serious complications. You'll find the effective treatment you need at Los Robles Regional and Medical Center in Thousand Oaks.Symptoms of UTIs Watch the accompanying video to hear a urologist at Los Robles Regional explain some of the symptoms of urinary tract infections. Patients with UTIs may experience any of the following:Increased urination frequencyUrgent urinationUrinating small amounts at a timeBloody or cloudy urinationItching in the genital regionPainful or burning urinationUrinary incontinenceFoul-smelling urineIn addition, some patients with UTIs may experience pain in the back, side or lower abdomen. Older patients may experience symptoms that seem to be unrelated to the urinary system, such as confusion, fatigue, problems walking or loss of appetite. If you think you have a UTI, your doctor may confirm the diagnosis and treat it.Complications of UTIsComplications of urinary tract infections aren't common, but they are serious when they occur. The bacteria that cause UTIs may enter the kidneys, causing symptoms like:FeverChillsSevere lower back painSeek medical care promptly if you think you might have a kidney infection.Treatment for UTIsMost UTIs are easily treated with a course of antibiotics. If your doctor prescribes antibiotics, always finish the full course of treatment, even after you start feeling better.If you have a kidney infection, an ER physician may need to admit you to the hospital for IV antibiotics and fluids.Women choose Los Robles Regional Medical Center because of our commitment to patient-centered, compassionate care. Our women's health specialists in Thousand Oaks provide a full range of pelvic health and gynecologic urology services to help you live life to the fullest. If you'd like to learn more about our urology services, a registered nurse is available to help you at (877) 888-5746.