Kidney, Urinary, Gastro Intestinal, Liver

Antibiotics are used to treat UTIs. Lower UTIs can be treated with oral antibiotics. Upper UTIs require intravenous antibiotics. Sometimes, bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics. Urine cultures can help your doctor select an effective antibiotic treatment. The following antibiotics are used to treat UTIs: Beta-lactams, including penicillins and cephalosporins (for example, Amoxicillin, Augmentin, Keflex, Duricef, Ceftin, Lorabid, Rocephin, Cephalexin, Suprax and others). Trimethoprim -…

Diagnosis  History and physical exam may suggest whether you have a lower or upper UTI. Definitive diagnosis requires a “clean catch” urine specimen. This is urine collected from the middle of the urinary stream (decreases the contamination of cells and microbes). The doctor will instruct how to do a clean catch. The goal is to avoid picking up bacteria from patient’s skin. Read: Know Your Tests: The Urine Test  Doctors will look for a large number of white blood cells in the…

Symptoms of UTI depend upon what part of the urinary tract is infected. Lower UTIs are infections of the urethra and bladder. Their symptoms include: Burning with urination Increased frequency of urination with scant amounts of urine being passed Bloody urine (blood in urine) Cloudy urine (milky colored urine) Urine that looks like cola or tea (dark brown coloured urine) Strong odour to urine Pelvic pain (women - lower abdominal pain) Rectal pain (men - anal pain) Upper UTIs are infections of…

Anything that reduces the bladder emptying or irritates the urinary tract can cause UTIs. Many factors can put someone at risk. Obstructions: Blockages that make it difficult to empty the bladder can cause an UTI. Obstructions can be caused by an enlarged prostate, kidney stones and certain forms of cancer. Gender: Women are more likely to get UTIs. This is because their urethras are shorter. UTIs in men are less common and more serious. Sexual Activity: Pressure on the urinary tract during…

Types of UTI  There are a number of different types of urinary tract infections. Urinary tract infections usually develop first in the lower urinary tract (urethra, bladder). If these infections are not treated, they may progress to the upper urinary tract (ureters, kidneys). Bladder infection (cystitis) is by far the most common UTI.  Infection of the urethra is called urethritis. Kidney infection (pyelonephritis) is a serious condition that requires urgent treatment. Pyelonephritis…

If your acid reflux or GERD is under control, you may have no serious problems from it. But if you do not keep it in control, it can cause complications. If it is not treated, acid reflux can cause inflammation and bleeding in the esophagus, the tube that connects your throat to your stomach. Even cancer can happen, but it’s rare. The most important thing is to work with your doctor to manage the condition and avoid these problems.

GERD can be prevented in most cases by making the right choices in terms of lifestyle.  Reduces chances of developing GERD by cutting down on  Smoking Spicy foods Acidic fruits and vegetables, like citrus or tomatoes Alcohol Garlic and onions Fried foods, or heavily fatty foods Suggested reading Management section Diet changes to control acid reflux  http://www.patientsengage.com/conditions/gerd/caring-tips  

Causes of urinary incontinence It is not a disease, it is a symptom. Urinary incontinence can be caused by daily habits, underlying medical or physical problems.  Urinary incontinence may be temporary or persistent.  Temporary urinary incontinence  Certain drinks, foods and medications can act as diuretics by stimulating your bladder and increasing volume of urine. These include:  Alcohol Caffeine Decaffeinated tea and coffee Carbonated drinks Artificial sweeteners Corn…

It is important to determine the type of urinary incontinence that you have since it will guide treatment decisions. The doctor may do some of the following tests: Thorough medical history and physical exam  Urine analysis: Sample of urine will be checked for any signs of infection or other abnormalities. Bladder diary: You should record how much you drink, when you urinate, amount of urine you produce and the number of incontinence episodes.  Post void residual measurement: You…

Fluid and diet management You have to avoid alcohol, caffeine, acidic foods to regain control of your bladder. Reducing liquid consumption, losing weight, increasing physical activity can reduce the problem. Speak to your doctor about a diet and fluid plan. Physical fitness Doing regular exercises can help to strengthen the muscles that control urination. Tighten the muscles you use to stop urinating and hold for 2 – 5 seconds and then relax for 2 – 5 seconds. Do this exercise at least ten…