- Research also shows that up to 40 per cent of bladder infections can be cleared with non-prescription steps.
- Those who experience recurrent urinary tract infections should seek evaluation by a specialist.
POV; you just got a UTI and after a couple of visits to your doctor, you are given very strong and expensive medication which you religiously take only for you to end up in the same situation after a couple of months.
One of the greatest frustrations regarding urinary tract infections is that they so often recur.
UTIs, according to the Mayo Clinic, is caused by bacteria in the urinary tract including the kidneys, ureters, bladder or urethra.
The term is most commonly used to describe a bladder infection and is characterised by frequent and painful urination.
Well, a round of antibiotics usually clears up the symptoms, but the relief is often temporary.
Despite the prevalence of the painful condition, women are fearful and frustrated with limited management options, according to Cedars-Sinai research published in the Journal of Urology.
To help give voice to those suffering from recurrent urinary tract infections, researchers led a focus group study of 29 women who experienced recurrent UTIs to learn about gaps in their care.
Women who participated in the study were critical of healthcare providers for failing to understand their experiences while over-prescribing antibiotics as a treatment option.
“We were inspired to conduct the study due to the large number of women coming to us feeling hopeless and helpless when it came to the management of their UTIs,” lead author Victoria Scott, said.
One of the biggest concerns expressed by the participants revolved around the frequent prescribing of antibiotics and fears of the potential adverse and long-term effects of the medication.
“Many people risk developing a bacteria resistant to the antibiotics,” Scott said.
“To some extent, the antibiotics may disrupt the normal balance of good and bad bacteria throughout the body.”
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Participants voiced their frustration and resentment toward their medical providers for "throwing antibiotics" at them without presenting alternative options for treatment or prevention.
Although studies show that antibiotics are often the most effective treatment option for urinary tract infections, research also shows that up to 40 per cent of bladder infections can be cleared with non-prescription steps.
They recommended the affected increase their water intake, take cranberry supplements or a low-dose antibiotic after sexual intercourse, use vaginal estrogen for those who are postmenopausal and pain relief medications such as ibuprofen.
“Taking these steps when UTI symptoms initially develop and urine test results are pending can be important for avoiding unnecessary antibiotics and ensuring that appropriate antibiotics are prescribed when needed,” the researchers advised.
While over-the-counter treatments are preferred by many, Scott recommends seeing a doctor if a fever develops or symptoms persist beyond a day, as antibiotic therapy can be crucial for some infections to ensure they don't spread from the bladder to the kidneys.
“Antibiotics are amazing drugs and in certain settings are lifesaving,” Scott said.
“There are absolutely some instances in which antibiotics are necessary, but it's also important for women to be educated regarding all their options.”
Those who experience recurrent urinary tract infections should seek evaluation by a specialist.
Scott notes that while less common, men also can experience urinary tract infections.
“Unfortunately, we see many women who blame themselves for developing UTIs. It's important to understand that UTIs are a very common problem and should not invoke shame,” Scott said.
“If you are experiencing recurrent UTIs I encourage you to connect with a doctor who specializes in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery to work together to come up with individualized prevention and management strategies.”