How to manage urinary tract infections?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 21-year-old female weighing around 140 pounds, currently taking vitamin C gummies and drinks. I have a urinary tract infection(UTI) for a fact. With my research online, I have been doing everything to get rid of it. I believe I may be healing slowly, but I have a symptom I was worried about. When it comes to general symptoms, I have noticed cramps, discoloration in my pee (no burning feeling when I pee), frequent urination, and sometimes the feeling of not getting it all out. When it comes to the symptom that has been scaring me, it is that I am extremely tired and drowsy. It is not necessarily fatigue, but just super tired and the need to take multiple naps. Am I just recovering, or should I be concerned? I also have had pretty painful cramps, but to be fair, I have been drinking soda (which I have limited myself on but still try to get some because I struggle with migraines as well), and I have also had masturbation, which I now know overstimulates it. I have been struggling with cramps coming in and out the whole process. I have also stopped doing that, though.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

It sounds like you are experiencing some common symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI), along with possible post-period hormonal changes. The cramps, discoloration in urine, and frequent urination can indicate that your UTI is still not fully resolved, though tiredness could be due to your body recovering. However, the painful cramps and tiredness you are experiencing, especially with your other habits like soda intake and masturbation, could be aggravating your symptoms.

Given the ongoing symptoms and since you have had multiple UTIs, it would be a good idea to visit your healthcare provider for a urine test to check if the infection persists. You may also need antibiotics if the infection is still there. It is also helpful to avoid holding in urine, as it increases the risk of UTIs, and try drinking plenty of water to flush out any bacteria.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.