UTI Testing & Treatment: Cedar Hills

Think you have a UTI? We're conveniently located off Hwy 26 on Cedar Falls Dr. across from Market of Choice. Open 7 days a week, extended hours. Our urgent care offers comprehensive UTI testing and treatment with no appointment necessary, ensuring quick and effective care near you for your urinary tract health.

What is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that affects any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. The most common type of UTI is a lower urinary tract infection, typically a bladder infection. While UTIs can be painful and irritating, they can also lead to severe health issues if left untreated, particularly if the infection spreads to the kidneys.

Lower Tract Infections

A lower tract UTI affects the bladder and urethra. It occurs when bacteria, commonly Escherichia coli (E. coli), enter the urethra and migrate upwards to the bladder. Lower tract UTIs are more common in women due to their shorter urethra.

Upper Tract Infections

An upper tract UTI affects the kidneys and the ureters (the tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder). These infections are generally more serious than lower tract infections due to the potential for severe symptoms and complications.

Common UTI Symptoms

UTIs can cause a variety of symptoms, some of which are common to both men and women, while others may be more specific to each gender.

• Frequent urge to urinate
• Pain or discomfort while urinating
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
• Blood in the urine (hematuria)
• Pain or pressure in the lower abdomen
• Pain during sex

How Do You Get a UTI?

UTIs are more common in women than in men due to the shorter urethra in women, which allows bacteria to reach the bladder more easily. Factors such as sexual intercourse, poor hygiene, and holding in urine for too long can contribute to UTIs. Learn more here.

Risk Factors

UTIs can affect anyone at any age, but certain risk factors make some people more susceptible, including:

• Not peeing after sex
• Urinary catheters
• Menopause
• Weakened immune systems
• Certain birth control methods
• Family history of UTIs
• Poor hygiene and toilet habits

Recurrent UTIs

While it’s common to contract a UTI at least once in your lifetime, some people experience multiple UTIs. Factors contributing to recurrent UTIs include:

• Reinfection: Susceptibility to reinfection by the same or different bacteria.
• Incomplete Treatment: Not completing the full course of antibiotics.
• Urinary Tract Abnormalities: Structural abnormalities in the urinary tract.
• Autoimmune Disorders: Weakened immune system due to conditions such as diabetes or HIV/AIDS.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in women.
• Sexual Activity: Bacteria introduction during sexual intercourse.
• Personal Hygiene: Poor hygiene practices.

Bladder Infection vs. Kidney Infection

Bladder Infection

Symptoms:

• Frequent urge to urinate
• Burning sensation during urination
• Cloudy or bloody urine
• Lower abdominal pain
• Feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder

Complications

If left untreated, a bladder infection can spread to the kidneys and cause a more serious infection.

Kidney Infection

Symptoms:

• Symptoms of a bladder infection
• High fever
• Back pain (usually on one side)
• Chills
• Nausea and vomiting

Complications

Untreated kidney infections can lead to severe kidney damage, bloodstream infections (sepsis), and potential long-term complications.

Tips to Prevent UTIs

Preventing UTIs involves adopting certain habits and practices, including:

1. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to promote frequent urination and flush out bacteria.
2. Proper Hygiene: Change out of wet bathing suits and wipe from front to back after using the toilet.
3. Clothing: Wear loose-fitting, breathable garments made from natural fibers like cotton.
4. Pee after Sex: Urinate after sexual activity to flush out any bacteria.
5. Don’t Hold It: Empty your bladder regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.

UTI Diagnosis & Treatment at Cedar Hills

Testing

When you visit AFC Urgent Care Cedar Hills for UTI testing and treatment, we will discuss your symptoms, conduct a physical exam, and test your urine with a urinalysis or urine culture to determine the type of bacteria causing the infection. This helps us determine the best course of treatment for your UTI.

Treatment

We typically prescribe antibiotics to kill the bacteria in your bladder or kidneys causing the infection. If you’re experiencing severe pain while urinating, we may prescribe additional medication for that symptom, which might temporarily change the color of your urine to orange.

Aftercare

It’s important to take all the medications as prescribed and finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better. Drinking plenty of fluids and following your provider’s instructions are also important. If your symptoms don’t go away or if you have any concerns, walk into our clinic any time, no appointment needed.

Our Walk-In Clinics Offer:

• Walk-in friendly services
• Open 7 days a week
• In-network for most Oregon insurers
• Extended hours
• Onsite X-Ray and Lab facilities

If you believe you have a urinary tract infection, don’t hesitate to visit us in Cedar Hills. Our walk-in clinic is open seven days a week, providing you with accessible and comprehensive care when you need it most. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent complications, and our dedicated team is here to support you with professionalism and compassion.