Urinary tract infection - diagnosis and treatment in Warsaw
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common health problem that can affect the bladder, the urethra, and in some cases also the kidneys. The symptoms can be very bothersome, and with recurrent infections they require more thorough diagnostics.
In nephrology practice, it is important not only to treat the current infection but also to determine why the infections keep recurring. Recurrent UTIs can coexist with, among other things, kidney stones, impaired urine outflow, abnormalities in urine tests, or chronic kidney disease.
At OpenMed in Warsaw (Wola and Praga), diagnostics for urinary tract infections are available, including a nephrology consultation, laboratory tests, and a urinary system ultrasound.
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection
A urinary tract infection can cause various symptoms, depending on the location and severity of the infection. The most common include:
- burning or pain during urination,
- frequent urination,
- a sudden urge to urinate,
- pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen,
- a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying,
- a change in the smell or appearance of urine,
- blood in the urine.
Symptoms such as fever, chills, pain in the lumbar region, weakness, or a deterioration in general condition require particular attention. They may suggest an infection involving the kidneys.
Urology specialists at OpenMed
Book a urology consultation for urinary tract symptoms, male urological problems, and diagnostic planning.
Causes of urinary tract infections
UTIs are most often caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract. The risk of infection can be increased by:
- incomplete bladder emptying,
- urinary tract stones,
- impaired urine outflow,
- diabetes,
- pregnancy,
- reduced immunity,
- urinary catheterisation,
- recurrent infections in the past.
In the case of frequent recurrences, a broader assessment is necessary, because simply treating another infection may not resolve the cause of the problem.
When to see a nephrologist?
A nephrology consultation is advisable especially when urinary tract infections recur, follow an atypical course, or are accompanied by abnormal test results. It is worth booking a consultation when:
- infections recur,
- blood or protein appears in the urine,
- pain in the lumbar region occurs,
- the infection is accompanied by fever,
- elevated creatinine has been found,
- the patient has kidney stones or chronic kidney disease.
Diagnostics of urinary tract infection at OpenMed
The basis of diagnostics is a medical consultation and urine tests. Depending on the situation, the doctor may recommend:
- a general urine test,
- a urine culture with an antibiogram,
- blood tests, including creatinine and eGFR,
- CRP,
- a kidney ultrasound or a urinary system ultrasound.
A urinary system ultrasound makes it possible to assess, among other things, the kidneys, the bladder, the presence of stones, urine retention, or other abnormalities. OpenMed provides access to a urinary system ultrasound in Warsaw and Płock.
Treatment of urinary tract infection
Treatment depends on the symptoms, test results, and the patient's general condition. In many cases antibacterial treatment is necessary, ideally selected on the basis of the clinical picture and the urine culture result.
In the case of recurrent infections, it is also important to identify the factors that predispose to infection and to plan a course of action that reduces the risk of further recurrences.
Urinary tract infection - FAQ
Not always, but the decision should be made by a doctor after assessing the symptoms and test results.
Most often a general urine test is done, and in the case of recurrences or a more severe course, also a urine culture.
Yes. Fever, chills, and pain in the lumbar region may suggest a kidney infection and require urgent medical assessment.
With recurrent infections, haematuria, proteinuria, elevated creatinine, kidney stones, or suspected kidney disease.
Diagnostics are available at OpenMed Medical Centre Warsaw Wola and Praga.