Recurring Urinary Tract Infection

Alternate Names : Chronic Urinary Tract Infection, Recurrent UTI, Chronic UTI, Relapsing Urinary Tract Infection, Relapsing UTI, Chronic Cystitis

What are the treatments for the infection?

A person who has an abnormality in the urinary system may be able to have surgery to correct the problem. Otherwise, antibiotics, such as sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim or nitrofurantoin, are given to treat the UTI. A person may need to take these medications for a week or more in difficult cases of recurrent infection.

A person who has an artificial device, such as a urinary catheter, in the bladder should have the device changed or cleaned regularly.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Antibiotics may cause allergic reactions and stomach upsets. Other side effects vary depending on the medication used.

What happens after treatment for the infection?

The person can usually go back to normal activities once the symptoms have gone away.

How is the infection monitored?

Often, a person with recurring UTIs is asked to give a urine sample after treatment is completed. A urinalysis and urine culture can be done to check that the bacteria are gone from the urinary tract.