UTI or Bladder Infection Symptoms

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) or bladder infections, can affect women of any age. UTIs commonly cause a burning sensation when urinating along the full length of the urethra, as well as frequency and urgency to urinate. In severe cases ther may be supra-pubic pressure and blood in the urine. However, UTI-like symptoms of burning at the opening and frequency and urgency to urinate can occur in women who do not have true bladder infections.

About the Urinary Tract

Urine is transported from the body via the urinary tract. The tract consists of several components starting with the kidneys and ending with the urethra, which is a thin tube that takes the urine from the bladder to outside the body. The urethra opens into an area known as the vestibule, which is located at the front upper end of the vagina opening (learn more).

Causes of true UTIs

UTIs are usually caused by an infection that arises due the presence of bacteria that frequently enters the urinary tract via the urethra.  The accurate diagnosis of urinary tract infections involves getting a urinalysis to check for bacteria on the bladder. The urethra in women is  short and close to the rectum and vagina, which are two primary sources of bacteria. This explains the high incidences of bladder infections in females.

Non-bladder causes of UTI-like symptoms

UTI-like symptoms can also have non-bladder infection causes. There are times when the vestibule becomes irritated by internal or external factors, and these stimulate the urethra, creating an urgency and frequency to urinate. In such instances, it is necessary to identify the source of the irritant so that the irritant  can be properly resolved or avoided. Isolating these irritants has been an important area of study for Dr. R. Stuart Fowler, of Fowler GYN International (FGI).

Contact FGI for more information on how UTI-like symptoms in the absence of bladder infections can be treated. Please call 480-420-4001 today, or visit the website at www.fowlergyninternational.com.

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