Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can occur in any part of the urinary tract (kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra). UTIs are the second most common type of infection in humans. The National Kidney & Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC) reports that UTIs account for over eight million doctor visits annually.
Treatment of UTIs in Men
A course of an antibiotic medicine will usually clear the infection quickly. This is usually for seven days. You should see a doctor if your symptoms are not gone, or nearly gone, after a few days.
Paracetamol or ibuprofen will usually ease any pain, discomfort, or high temperature (fever).
Have plenty to drink to help prevent a lack of fluid in the body (dehydration) if you have a fever and feel unwell.
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Risks of a UTI
If you take antibiotics for a long time, bacteria in your body can become resistant. Bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics are very hard to kill. Even after you take medicine to treat your UTI, your infection may come back. Without treatment, your infection and symptoms may get worse. The bacteria may spread to your kidneys and cause pyelonephritis. This can be a very serious condition, and you may need treatment in the hospital. The infection can spread to your blood, which can be life-threatening.
Consultations for UTIs
Consultation with a urologist is essential for the treatment of UTIs in adult males with the following:
- Suspected underlying anatomic abnormality - However, this consultation can be completed on an outpatient basis, unless obstructive uropathy is present
- Acute scrotum - Consultation is needed in all but the most clear-cut cases of acute scrotum
- All forms of prostatitis - In acute bacterial prostatitis, suprapubic drainage may be required if acute urinary retention occurs
The following are suggested consultations:
- Infectious disease specialist - When unusual or resistant microorganisms have been isolated or if the infection is in an unusual host
- Pharmacokinetics specialist - When using aminoglycosides
- The patient's primary care provider
The vast majority of men improve within a few days of starting treatment. See a doctor if you do not quickly improve. If your symptoms do not improve despite taking an antibiotic medicine then you may need an alternative antibiotic. This is because some germs (bacteria) are resistant to some types of antibiotics. This can be identified from tests done on your urine sample.
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