by Carmack A

You have your own health history. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and background with UTIs. By talking openly and often with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.

Here are some tips that will make it easier for you to talk to your doctor:

  • Bring someone with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask.
  • Write down your questions so do you do not forget them.
  • Write down the answers you get and make sure you understand what you are hearing. Ask for help if you need it.
  • Do not be afraid to ask your questions or ask where you can find more information. You have a right to know.
  • Do my symptoms sound like a UTI?
  • How could I have gotten this infection?
  • Is there any chance that this is a more serious kidney infection?
  • Do I have any risk factors for UTIs?
  • Do I have any health problems that caused me to get a UTI?
  • My child has a UTI. Is it due to any problems in the urinary system?
  • What kind of treatment is right for me?
  • Are there any self-care treatments that will help?
  • What can I do to ease pain?
  • How will I know if the infection is gone?
  • How much water should I drink?
  • What can I do to prevent infections from having sex?
  • How will I know if the infection is getting worse?
  • I am pregnant. Will a UTI cause problems for the baby or me?
  • What can I do to lower my risk of another UTI?

References

Bladder infection (urinary tract infection)—UTI) in adults. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/bladder-infection-uti-in-adults. Accessed March 30, 2022.

Getting the most out of your doctor appointment. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/tips-for-talking-to-your-doctor. Accessed March 31, 2022.

Introduction to urinary tract infections (UTIs). Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/genitourinary-disorders/urinary-tract-infections-utis/introduction-to-urinary-tract-infections-utis. Accessed March 30, 2022.

Uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI) (pyelonephritis and cystitis). EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/uncomplicated-urinary-tract-infection-uti-pyelonephritis-and-cystitis. Accessed March 30, 2022.

Urinary tract infections in adults. Urology Care Foundation website. Available at: https://www.urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/u/urinary-tract-infections-in-adults. Accessed March 30, 2022.

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