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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by JLynn on August 18, 2005, at 21:00:45
I think I have a UTI. Mostly I feel nearly a constant urge to go, but usually there isn't much urine. I do have some irritation also. I wonder is there anything I can do to avoid going to the doctor? I am drinking a lot of water and no sodas. If I do have to go to the doctor will they do an actual exam or just test my urine?
Posted by Dinah on August 18, 2005, at 21:05:52
In reply to UTI question, posted by JLynn on August 18, 2005, at 21:00:45
I recently found some over the counter UTI tests. Not sure how well they work.
I've heard that cranberry juice can prevent UTI's but I'm not sure anything but antibiotics can cure them.
They'll test your urine, but if you haven't been for a while might also give you an exam.
Posted by Sarah T. on August 18, 2005, at 23:11:23
In reply to UTI question, posted by JLynn on August 18, 2005, at 21:00:45
Hi JLynn,
I've read that both cranberry juice and blueberry juice contain a chemical that prevents UTI-causing bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder, so when you drink those juices, the bacteria are more likely to "wash out." It's important to drink a lot of water, too.
Unfortunately, blueberry juice is very expensive, but it's delicious. I've noticed that many brands of juice labeled cranberry juice actually have very little cranberry juice in them. Read the ingredients, and see how far down on the list the cranberry juice is. Try to pick a brand that has cranberry juice listed first.
If you're in a lot of pain around the bladder, the urethra, or in your lower back (near the kidneys), or if you see blood in your urine, I think you should probably see a doctor.
By the way, sometimes, when I've tried new antidepressants, I have a persistent sense of urinary urgency, and I feel as if I'm on the verge of a urinary tract infection. Lexapro did that to me, although Celexa did not. Also, some antidepressants and other meds can cause urinary retention so there is very little urine output even when you have a lot of urine in the bladder. If you are on one of those AD's, and if the urinary retention continues, there is a drug called Bethanechol/Urecholine that can help overcome the anticholinergic effects of the AD's on the bladder.
I hope you can nip this problem in the bud.
S.
This is the end of the thread.
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