• This system primarily filters the blood for recirculation and expels removed waste from the body via urine. • Major organs: kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. • Blood is filtered by the kidneys, the ureters carry urine to the bladder for storage, and urine is eventually expelled via the urethra.
• A urinary tract infection (UTI) caused by bacteria (usually E. coli) getting into the bladder, often via the urethra. • Bladder infection symptoms: o Pelvic pressure/discomfort o Pain or burning when urinating o Frequent urination o Blood in urine • Risk factors: urinary tract abnormalities, wiping incorrectly, sexual activity, contaminated birth control or hygiene products.
• A UTI caused by bacteria entering the kidneys (often from the bladder or urethra). • Kidney infection symptoms: o Upper back and side pain o Strong, frequent urge to urinate o Pain or discomfort when urinating
o Nausea and/or vomiting o Fever and/or chills o Pus or blood in urine • Risk factors: having an infection elsewhere, being catheterized, urinary tract blockage.
• Hard mineral and salt deposits that form inside the kidneys but which can travel and affect other parts of the urinary tract. •
Kidney stone symptoms: o Sharp, intense pain in the side and back o Pain that comes in waves and radiates through the abdomen
o Painful urination o Bloody, cloudy or bad-smelling urine o Persistent urge to urinate • Risk factors: poor diet, being overweight, certain medical conditions, certain medications, anything that causes highly concentrated urine.
• Can be caused by a variety of things, and may therefore be easily overlooked or misdiagnosed. • Possible urinary tract causes: o Prostate problems in men o Conditions that irritate the bladder (like interstitial cystitis)
o Overactive bladder (OAB), a condition which causes urinary muscles to spasm • Pregnancy, drinking more fluids, and diuretic medications can also be causes of frequent urination; a doctor can help rule out benign factors.
• A functional inability to control the bladder.
• Common types: o Stress incontinence (leaking after a sneeze, cough, etc.) o Urge incontinence (overactive bladder, infection, etc.)
o Overflow incontinence (dribbling because the bladder did not empty) • Risk factors: older age, multiple pregnancies, being overweight, genetic predisposition.
• Watch for red-flag symptoms of kidney problems: o Increased urination, with or without persistent urge o Pain or discomfort while urinating o Blood in urine (red, pink, or dark color) o Pelvic pain or pressure o Pain in upper back/side • If you have extreme symptoms like severe pain or a total inability to urinate, seek urgent or emergency care as needed.
• Crystal Run Healthcare is a highly accredited New York medical center offering compassionate, patient-centered care. Our Urologists use leadingedge technology and high standards of practice to provide high-quality, personable care to patients across dozens of specialties.
• You can easily book an appointment with many Crystal Run Healthcare physicians through the website or contact us if you need additional assistance.