What Are Urinary Tract Infections?
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur when bacteria enter the urinary system, affecting the bladder (cystitis), urethra (urethritis), or kidneys (pyelonephritis). Symptoms typically include a burning sensation during urination, increased urinary frequency or urgency, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and pelvic discomfort. Kidney infections may also cause fever, back pain, and nausea. UTIs are among the most common bacterial infections treated in primary care and are highly treatable when caught early.
Recurrent UTI Management
Some patients experience recurrent UTIs — defined as two or more infections within six months, or three or more within a year. Dr. Rao takes a comprehensive approach to managing recurrent infections, identifying contributing factors such as anatomy, hygiene habits, hormonal changes, or underlying conditions. Treatment strategies may include targeted antibiotic therapy, low-dose prophylactic antibiotics, post-intercourse medication, or lifestyle modifications tailored to each patient’s specific situation.
Find Out Which Tests You Need, Book a Consultation.
What to Expect
At your first appointment, Dr. Rao will review your symptoms, medical history, and any prior UTI episodes. A urine culture is typically ordered to confirm the diagnosis and identify the specific bacteria present, allowing for precise antibiotic selection. Follow-up appointments are scheduled as needed to ensure the infection has fully resolved. Patients experiencing frequent UTIs will receive a personalized prevention plan, and ongoing communication with Dr. Rao’s team is easily managed through the patient portal.