UTI Specialist

B. Robert Bamshad, MD Our Services UTI

B. Robert Bamshad, MD

Urologist located in Beverly Grove, Los Angeles, CA

Without prompt and proper care, urinary tract infections can cause serious complications. At Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Bamshad uses advanced approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of UTI in patients from Beverly Hills, West Hollywood and through the Greater LA area.

UTI Q & A

What causes UTIs?

Urinary tract infections are one of the most common types of infections in the U.S., and although they occur more often in women, they also affect many men. Without proper treatment, they can lead to bladder and kidney infections. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract through the opening at the end of the penis, although some infections can be caused by viruses, fungi or even parasites. In many cases, these pathogens can be fought off by the body's natural defense systems, but when the population of germs is high, they can overwhelm the immune system and cause infection, irritation, and inflammation. Recurrent UTIs are often caused by bacteria that hide in and around the prostate gland, a small gland located between the bladder and the penis. Sometimes, recurrent infections can be caused by structural defects in the anatomy of the urinary tract or by an enlarged prostate gland.

What symptoms are associated with UTIs?

UTIs can cause symptoms like:

  • frequent urge to urinate
  • pain or burning sensations when urinating
  • inability to completely empty the bladder or feeling like the bladder still contains urine even after urinating
  • bladder leakage
  • difficulty urinating
  • cloudy or pink urine
  • urine that has a strong odor
  • fever and low back pain, often developing when the infection has spread to the bladder or kidneys

How is a UTI treated?

Most urinary tract infections can be successfully treated with a course of antibiotics. During treatment, it's extremely important to take the entire course of medication as prescribed, even once symptoms begin to improve. Stopping treatment early can allow the germs to build up to symptomatic levels, which means the infection will “ramp up” and require additional treatment. When recurrent infections are caused by structural defects or an enlarged prostate, other intervention may be necessary to relieve symptoms and to help prevent future infections.

Can I prevent a UTI from occurring?

Drinking plenty of water is one of the best ways to prevent germs from building up in the urinary tract. Men with kidney problems should talk to their doctor first.