BLADDER INFECTION (UTI)

Patient Information

What is a Bladder Infection?

Germs that cause infection are present in the bladder.

What are the symptoms?

1. Burning or painful urination.
2. Stinky urine.
3. Increased urgency to urinate.
4. Lower stomach pain.
5. Having to go a lot.

How is it Treated?

With an antibiotic shot and/or pill to take by your mouth.

What else do I need to know?

1. You will be asked to get a clean catch mid-stream urine or a tube will be put in your bladder to obtain the urine.
2. Take your medicine as ordered by your doctor.
3. Take your medicine until it is all gone, even if you feel better after a few days.
4. Drink plenty of fluids like water, apple juice, cranberry juice, or caffeine-free sodas (7-up, Slice, or Sprite).
5. Drink at least 8 big glasses of fluids a day.
6. Urinate whenever you have the need to go or at least every 4 hours.
7. Try to empty your bladder completely when you urinate.
8. If you have severe back pain, high fever, vomiting, or you still are having problems after 10 days, come back to the clinic.
9. Do not drink ALCOHOL (beer, wine, hard liquor) while you are taking medicine for your bladder infection.
10. Do not miss your clinic appointments.

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