UTI Keeps Coming Back Despite Antibiotics? The Tests Doctors Say Can Find the Cause

Burning during urination, frequent trips to the toilet, passing only small amounts of urine — the symptoms ease for a while with antibiotics, but then return. Doctors say that when urinary tract infections, or UTIs, keep coming back, it is important to find the underlying cause of the infection.

Many people suffer from repeated urinary infections. Antibiotics reduce the symptoms temporarily, but within days the burning, pain or constant urge to urinate returns. According to doctors, in such cases patients should not rely only on antibiotics; the reason behind the infection needs to be investigated.

Burning during urination, frequent urination, passing small amounts repeatedly and lower abdominal pain are common symptoms of a UTI. Some people may also develop fever. According to physician Anwit Bhattacharya's advice, several tests are important when the infection recurs.

The first is a urine routine examination and urine culture, one of the most important tests for diagnosing a UTI. The routine test checks for pus cells, glucose or nitrites in the urine, while the culture identifies the bacteria responsible for the infection. The test also helps determine which antibiotic will work. Reports usually take three to five days, and giving the sample before starting antibiotics makes the result more reliable.

The second is a blood sugar or HbA1c test. Diabetes can raise the risk of a UTI, and in many people raised blood sugar goes undetected in the early stages. That is why blood sugar levels should be checked when urinary infections keep recurring.

The third is an ultrasound of the kidneys, ureters and bladder, known as USG KUB. It can show whether there is a stone or any other obstruction in the urinary tract, and whether urine remains in the bladder even after urination — retained urine can increase the risk of infection.

The fourth is the serum creatinine test, a blood test that shows how well the kidneys are functioning. Reduced kidney function can also lead to urinary infection problems, so doctors may advise this test in cases of repeated UTI.

In special cases, further tests may be needed. Men with repeated UTIs should be checked for prostate problems, and tests for sexually transmitted infections may be required where there is such a risk. If blood repeatedly appears in the urine or a stone in the urinary tract is suspected, a doctor may advise a CT KUB or cystoscopy.

Not every patient needs all five tests. Doctors choose the necessary tests based on age, symptoms, physical condition and infection history. Instead of taking antibiotics repeatedly on one's own, consulting a doctor is essential. Fever, chills or pain in the side of the waist call for prompt medical treatment.