Ask a Maui Doctor: How can I Prevent Getting a UTI?

Doctors at Minit Medical answer some of the questions submitted by readers.

UTIs. Maui Now Stock Photo

Each week, a doctor from Minit Medical Kahului or Lahaina will answer questions that have been submitted by readers. Submit your own medical related questions to our doctors at [email protected].

Questions submitted will be considered for inclusion in the “Ask a Maui Doctor” column.

Q: I’ve noticed that I feel the urge to go to the bathroom more than normal, and when I do, no urine really comes out. My friends say I might have a UTI, what is it and do I need medical treatment?

A: A simple, uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI) is inflammation of the urethra or urethritis. Left unchecked it can travel upwards to the bladder (cystitis) or the kidneys (pyelonephritis), and can cause a serious infection.

UTI symptoms include: Frequency and burning when urinating.
Cystitis symptoms: UTI symptoms also with lower abdominal discomfort.
Pyelonephritis: UTI symptoms with flank pain, fever/chills or nausea/vomiting.

Tips to prevent UTI’s on Maui: Avoid lingering in a wet bathing suit, post coital void (pee after sex), wipe front to back and drink plenty of fluids.

Treatment is easy with oral antibiotics for 5-7 days after confirmation with a urinalysis at the doctors office.

What is Azo?

This is pyridium, which can be used temporarily to help alleviate pain on urination. Low dose versions can be found OTC as Azo. Higher doses require prescription from a doctor. Note: this product will make urine turn orange.

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If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. Reliance on any information provided by in this article is solely at your own risk.