For patients with recurrent infections, it is important to tell your primary physician. Most physicians will send a culture to see what type of bacteria is growing. This is important to check to see if you are growing the same bacteria each time, and what antibiotic works well to kill that bacteria. 

Different methods to keep infections at a minimum:

• Cranberry tablets
• D- Mannose Supplements
• Vaginal estrogen cream (for post menopausal patients)
• Increased Fluid intake (90-100 ounces per day)

Sometimes kidney stones and other urologic conditions exist, which is why your primary physician may refer you to a urologist for evaluation.

Sometimes, a bad infection can cause you to bleed from your bladder wall. However, it is very important you tell your doctor, as you likely need evaluation for other conditions such as bladder cancer.

Current recommendations for uncomplicated urinary tract infections is to treat with antibiotics for 3-5 days. Usually this is done with a medication called Bactrim, nitrofurantoin, or Fosfomycin. Antibiotic selection may vary based on your allergies or previous culture results.