Women who are sexually active tend to have the highest occurence of urinary tract infections. There is a high risk for this type infection for some people such as those having multiple sexual partners, catheter users and others who are immobilized for long periods, such as victims of paralysis. People who suffer from kidney stones are also more likely to have urinary tract infections. For some, repeated use of antibiotic drugs has produced an immunity and the bacteria becomes increasingly resistant, making a change of medication necessary. A physician can easily diagnose this ailment with a urine culture test and a general examination.
Doctors often prescribe antibiotics which usually clear up the problem within two to three days.
A recurrence of symptoms is frequent for some. This may be brought on by a lapse in hygienic practices or a resistence to the prescribed antibiotic. To relieve the pain associated with this infection, sitting in a tub of hot water is recommended for 15 minutes twice daily. Many doctors also recommend drinking cranberry and blueberry juices as they have been shown to prevent and treat urinary tract infections successfully. These juices prevent harmful bacteria from adhering to the linings of the bladder and urethra.