Urinary Tract Infection in Houston, TX
A urinary tract infection is an uncomfortable condition that can lead to serious complications in women. At North Cypress Women’s Center, board-certified (gynecological) surgeon Dr. Farhina Imtiaz offers urinary tract infection diagnosis and treatment services for men and women in Houston and the surrounding areas of Texas, including Cypress, Sugarland, and Katy.
What is a Urinary Tract Infection?
A urinary tract infection may affect any part of the urinary system, but the infection most often occurs in the lower section of the urinary tract. The infection develops when bacteria enters the urinary tract. The design of the female genitalia will allow bacteria to enter the urinary tract more easily than the male anatomy. As a result, women tend to experience more urinary tract infections than men. Risk factors for developing a urinary tract infection are:
- Diaphragms and other types of birth control
- Kidney stones
- Female
- Menopause
- Suppressed immune system
- Sexual activity
- Procedures performed on the urinary tract
- Abnormalities along the urinary tract
- Use of catheters
Urinary Tract Infection Treatment Benefits
At the onset, urinary tract infections will cause mild to moderate symptoms that range from a small amount of discomfort to pain. Left untreated, urinary tract infections can lead to serious complications, especially in women. The most common complications are:
- Premature births and low birth weights in newborns
- Recurring infections
- Sepsis
- Kidney infection and kidney damage
- Narrowing of the urethra
What Areas are Affected by a Urinary Tract Infection?
Urinary tract infections may affect the:
- Kidneys
- Bladder
- Urethra
- Ureters
How is Treatment for a Urinary Tract Infection Performed?
Antibiotics are known to treat most urinary tract infections in men and women. If you have recurring infections, Dr. Imtiaz may recommend an extended course of antibiotics (six months or longer). Some women with recurrent urinary tract infections may have to take antibiotics after sexual intercourse to reduce the frequency of urinary tract infections. In most advanced cases, intravenous antibiotics may be required.
Urinary Tract Infection Treatment Preparation
Testing for a urinary tract infection can be done in our office. Dr. Imtiaz will ask for a urine sample. Depending on the results of the test, she may recommend:
- Urine culture
- Ultrasound, MRI or CT scan of your urinary tract
- Cystoscopy that uses a small flexible tube equipped with a camera to view inside the urethra and bladder
- Referral to a urologist
Urinary Tract Infection Recovery
You can take some steps to reduce your risk for urinary tract infections.
- Stay hydrated
- Consider changing your method of birth control
- Drink cranberry juice
- Urinate shortly after sexual intercourse
- After urinating, use toilet paper to wipe from the front to the back
- Avoid any feminine hygiene products that may cause irritation
How Much Does Urinary Tract Infection Treatment Cost in Houston?
Treatment for urinary tract infections is covered under your medical insurance. After we submit the claim, your insurance will decide what portion is your responsibility. You may also need to pay a portion of the cost at the time of your appointment. We accept payment by cash, major credit card and CareCredit® financing.
Is Urinary Tract Infection Treatment Right for Me?
A urinary tract infection may or may not cause symptoms. Treatment may be needed if you notice:
- Frequent urination, but only small amounts of urine
- Pelvic pain
- Burning sensation
- Continuously strong urge to urinate
- Strong urine odor
- Cloudy urine
- Signs of blood in the urine, typically a dark brownish, red or pink appearance
Urinary Tract Infection Consultation
Urinary tract infections are common, and treatment is very effective. If you have signs of a urinary tract infection, contact us to schedule a consultation.
Although women are more likely to develop urinary tract infections, the condition can affect anyone. Board-certified (gynecological) surgeon, Dr. Farhina Imtiaz of North Cypress Women’s Center specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of urinary tract infections for men and women in Houston and the surrounding areas of Texas, including Cypress, Sugarland, and Katy.