Urinary Tract Infections
Comprehensive care for diagnosis, treatment and prevention of urinary tract infections
What are they?
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are bacterial infections that affect any part of the urinary system: kidneys, ureters, bladder or urethra. They occur when bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract migrate to the urinary tract, causing inflammation.
Very Common
1 in 2 women will have a urinary infection in their lifetime
Treatable
With timely diagnosis and antibiotics, most resolve in days
Types of Infections
Identifying the type helps determine the appropriate treatment
Cystitis
Bladder Infection
The most common, affects the bladder causing discomfort when urinating
Pyelonephritis
Kidney Infection
More serious, affects the kidneys and can cause permanent damage
Urethritis
Urethral Infection
Inflammation of the urethra, the tube that expels urine
Symptoms
Recognize the warning signs according to the type of infection
Cystitis (Bladder)
- Intense burning when urinating
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Blood in urine
- Pressure in lower abdomen
Pyelonephritis (Kidneys)
- High fever and chills
- Intense back or side pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Cystitis symptoms
- Requires urgent medical attention
If you have high fever, intense back pain or vomiting, seek immediate medical attention. These may be signs of kidney infection.
Causes and Risk Factors
Knowing the factors helps in effective prevention
E. coli Bacteria
Causes 80-90% of urinary infections
Female Anatomy
Shorter urethra facilitates bacteria passage
Catheter Use
Urinary catheters increase infection risk
Diabetes
Elevated sugar in urine promotes bacterial growth
Kidney Stones
Stones in kidneys block urine flow
Weak Immune System
Immunosuppression reduces defenses against infections
When to Consult a Nephrologist?
Situations that require specialized attention
Recurrent Infections
3 or more infections in 12 months or 2 in 6 months
Pyelonephritis
Kidney infection with high fever and back pain
Renal Complications
History of kidney damage or insufficiency
Antibiotic Resistance
Infections that don't respond to treatment
Medical Conditions
Diabetes, kidney stones or immunosuppression
Persistent Symptoms
Discomfort that doesn't improve after treatment
Treatment and Prevention
Comprehensive approach to cure and prevent future infections
Treatment
- Specific antibiotics based on culture
- Duration: 3-7 days for cystitis
- 10-14 days for pyelonephritis
- Analgesics for pain relief
- Abundant hydration
- Follow-up to confirm cure
Prevention
- Drink 2-3 liters of water daily
- Urinate frequently, don't hold it
- Urinate after sexual intercourse
- Wipe from front to back
- Avoid vaginal douches
- Cranberry juice may help
Why Choose Dr. Pamela Vázquez?
Certified Experience
Over 7 years of specialized experience in nephrology
Precise Diagnosis
Complete evaluation with cultures and specialized studies
Effective Treatment
Specific antibiotics according to the type of bacteria
Recurrence Prevention
Personalized plan to avoid future infections
Complex Case Care
Specialized management of recurrent infections
Humanized Medicine
Care with warmth, empathy and professionalism
Start Your Treatment Today
Receive specialized care for the treatment and prevention of urinary tract infections