Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Birmingham
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections, affecting the kidneys, ureters, bladder or urethra. They are particularly prevalent in women but can affect men of all ages. Recurrent UTIs or UTIs with atypical features warrant specialist urological assessment. Mr Syed Ali Shahzad, Consultant Urological and Robotic Surgeon, provides expert assessment and management of UTIs at private hospitals across Birmingham.
Symptoms of a UTI
- Burning or stinging on urination (dysuria)
- Urinary frequency and urgency
- Cloudy, dark or foul-smelling urine
- Blood in the urine (haematuria)
- Lower abdominal or pelvic discomfort
- Fever, rigors and loin pain (suggesting upper urinary tract infection / pyelonephritis)
Recurrent UTIs
Recurrent UTIs (2 or more in 6 months, or 3 or more in 12 months) require thorough specialist assessment to identify any underlying structural or functional cause, such as incomplete bladder emptying, kidney stones, bladder diverticulum, BPH or, rarely, bladder cancer. Assessment typically includes urine culture, imaging and flexible cystoscopy.
Management of Recurrent UTIs
Management strategies include:
- Prophylactic low-dose antibiotics
- Self-start antibiotic therapy
- Non-antibiotic prophylaxis (D-mannose, cranberry, Hibiscrub washout)
- Vaginal oestrogen in post-menopausal women
- Intravesical hyaluronic acid instillation
- Treatment of underlying urological causes
Book a UTI Consultation in Birmingham
No GP referral is required. Mr Shahzad is recognised by BUPA, AXA, AVIVA, Vitality, Cigna and WPA. Book an appointment or contact us.