Can A Uti Show Up As Chlamydia

Why Am I Getting Urinary Tract Infections

Ever since I started having sex I get urinary tract infections a lot. Does that mean there could be something else wrong? Mandy*

If you have burning or pain when you pee, it could be a number of things. One possibility is a urinary tract infection , but others include a sexually transmitted disease , such as chlamydia, or chemical irritation from a spermicide . Its hard to tell the difference without seeing a doctor or .

Urinary tract infections tend to be more common in girls who have sex. Often, they happen because bacteria entered the urethra .

Follow these steps to help decrease your chances of getting UTIs:

• Wipe front to back after going to the bathroom.
• Pee right before and after sex.
• Drink plenty of liquids, especially water.

STDs can cause symptoms similar to those of a UTI, such as burning, vaginal discharge, belly pain, and irregular bleeding.

Many times, though, STDs have few symptoms, which is why it is important for anyone who has had sex to be tested at least once a year. And always use condoms with any type of sex to help prevent STDs.

In any case, the best thing to do is get checked out ASAP by a health care provider who can look for the reason you’re having symptoms. It’s really important to get the right diagnosis and treatment!

*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.

What Should You Do If You Think Youve Been Misdiagnosed

Have you had inconsistent STD test results i.e. one negative and one positive test? Or do you doubt the accuracy of a recent STD test? If so, then know that you can always visit a private STD testing clinic for a second opinion. Sometimes general practitioners may not have access to the most advanced testing equipment on the market. As such, it doesnt hurt to get tested again for a condition like chlamydia at a dedicated STD testing facility.

Does Trichomoniasis Mean Your Partner Cheated

The bottom line People can have trichomoniasis for months without showing any symptoms. If you or your partner suddenly have symptoms or test positive for it, it doesn’t necessarily mean that someone’s cheating. Either partner may have gotten it in a previous relationship and unknowingly passed it on.

Don’t Miss: How Easy Is It To Get Rid Of Chlamydia

Urinary Infections In Children

A urinary infection in a child needs to be investigated as it may indicate a more serious condition.

The most common urinary system condition is urinary reflux. With this condition, the bladder valve isnt working properly and allows urine to flow back to the kidneys, increasing the risk of a kidney infection.

Urinary reflux and the associated infections can scar or permanently damage the kidney, and can also lead to:

• high blood pressure
• toxaemia in pregnancy
• kidney failure.

Urinary reflux tends to run in families, so its important to screen children as early as possible if a close relative is known to have the problem.

Chlamydia Vs Urinary Tract Infection

Here you will learn how a doctor tells the difference between chlamydia and urinary tract infection .

UTI is inflammation of the urethra or bladder that can lead to a kidney infection if left untreated.

Signs and symptoms such as frequent urination, a burning sensation while urinating, urgent urination, and lower abdominal painâcommonly referred as UTI symptomsâcan result from either UTI or chlamydia.

When differentiating between two conditions, itâs important to analyze sign and symptoms in the right context. The right context in this case means considering these things:

• What preceded the signs and symptoms
• When symptoms appeared first
• How the disease has been evolving

Itâs important to distinguish between these two conditions because chlamydia, unlike UTI , can cause irreversible reproductive system damage if itâs not detected and treated.

Also Check: Is Chlamydia A Bacterial Infection

When To See A Doctor

Knowing when to see a doctor is important. Both chlamydia and UTIs are treated with antibiotics, which need to be prescribed by a doctor. Minor UTIs may clear up on their own, but its still best to get medical advice to see if you require treatment. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, see a doctor for their advice.

Its also worth remembering that you can have chlamydia without experiencing any symptoms. In fact, chlamydia usually only shows symptoms after it has progressed. Regular STD tests help you to ensure any symptom-free infections are detected as soon as possible and can be treated appropriately, especially if you have recently had unprotected sex.

Fresh Sample Urine Microscopy Test

This test is exactly what it sounds like. Upon providing a urine sample, it is immediately analyzed under a microscope to count things such as bacteria, fungi, white and red blood cells, and bladder lining cells . Its a technique that was used in the 1920s and has since been revived.

One UK study focused on recurrent cystitis with negative urinalysis, led by specialist, Professor Malone-Lee, used this UTI testing technique in combination with a thorough assessment of symptoms.

Based on positive identification of infection using this technique, the study reported a treatment success rate of 84%, in patients with urinary tract conditions previously considered untreatable.

At present, we are unaware of US-based specialists using this same set of testing and assessment techniques. However, it is possible to replicate this technique with the help of a practitioner.

Read Also: How To Tell If A Guy Has Chlamydia

Can You Get Trich From A Uti

Yes, you can develop trichomoniasis from a UTI. Trich caused by UTIs doesnt always present any symptoms. Typically, trich is diagnosed with a self-cervical or vaginal examination.

If symptoms are present they typically come in the form of:

• Penile, urinary, or vaginal discharge that is gray, green, or yellowish
• Discharge that has a foul smell
• Discharge that has bubbles or is froth-like
• Irritation, soreness, burning, or swelling

When And How To Test Again

Gersh recommends that people get tested once a year, or after every new partner whichever comes first!

Its also good practice to get site-specific STI tests before engaging in sex acts that incorporate a new part of the body.

To get tested, find an STI clinic that tests for all the STIs youre interested in getting tested for.

If you dont know which STIs you want to get tested for and are looking for a doctor to breakdown what STIs youre most at risk for given what sex acts are part of your sex life, its best to go to a clinic that *doesnt* specify one or two or three STIs in their online marketing.

Some clinics, for example, only test for HIV or only test for gonorrhea and chlamydia.

Also Check: Does Chlamydia Have A Smell Male

You May Like: Is Chlamydia Medication Over The Counter

D Sexually Transmitted Infections

A urinalysis can give clues to the presence of sexually transmitted infections. A positive dipstick for leukocyte esterase or increased numbers of white blood cells in the microscopic exam is suggestive of chlamydia or gonoccocal infection. However, because of its low sensitivity this test should not be considered an effective screening method for these infections. For example, in one study, the presence of leukocyte esterase was only 61% sensitive for chlamydia infections in males.3 For a complete discussion of screening refugees for STIs, see Screening for Sexually Transmitted Infections.

Testing Before The Incubation Period

Every STD test has an advised date from which a test becomes accurate. This is because the bacteria needs enough time to multiply within your body in order for it to reach a detectable level when taking a chlamydia test. For chlamydia this is often 14 days. If you test before that 14 days is over, you may test negative, but you could still pass the bacteria on following your test.

Read Also: Free Clinics For Chlamydia Testing

Also Check: How Many Pills To Get Rid Of Chlamydia

Embarrassed Dont Be: It Can Be Dangerous

A lot of people dont visit their doctor due to symptoms because they consider it potentially embarrassing. Dont put it off! Both UTIs and STDs are easy to diagnose and just as easy to cure. Any waiting before you see your doctor has the potential to be more dangerous to you and your sexual partners, and not seeing a doctor at all could mean that your symptoms get worse.

Urinary Tract Infections In Women

UTIs are common, particularly with increasing age. Women are more likely to get a UTI than men. Nearly 1 in 3 women will have a UTI needing treatment before the age of 24.

In women, the urethra is short and straight, making it easier for germs to travel into the bladder. For some women, UTIs relate to changes in their hormonal levels. Some are more likely to get an infection during certain times in their menstrual cycle, such as just before a period or during pregnancy.

In older women, the tissues of the urethra and bladder become thinner and drier with age as well as after menopause or a hysterectomy. This can be linked to increased UTIs.

During pregnancy, the drainage system from the kidney to the bladder widens so urine does not drain as quickly. This makes it easier to get a UTI. Sometimes germs can move from the bladder to the kidney causing a kidney infection. UTIs during pregnancy can result in increased blood pressure, so it is very important to have them treated as soon as possible.

Women are more at risk of repeated UTIs if they:

• use spermicide jelly or diaphragm for contraception
• have had a new sexual partner in the last year
• had their first UTI at or before 15 years of age
• have a family history of repeated UTIs, particularly their mother
• suffer from constipation

Recommended Reading: What Does Chlamydia Urine Smell Like

How Long Does It Take To Show Up In The Throat

Symptoms of chlamydia in your throat are typically caused by having oral sex with someone whos contracted the infection.

Its much less common to notice throat symptoms, but they may still appear after a week or so, up to a few months or longer.

STI tests that look for chlamydia arent always done on the throat since its an area that does not carry the infection often. Ask your doctor for a throat swab or other chlamydia test if you think youve been exposed through oral sex.

Here are the most common symptoms of chlamydia in both people with penises and people with vulvas.

Urgent Care Omaha Walk

Our staff works to provide prompt, personal, and professional care for all of our patients. We strive to provide the attention patients need in as quick a time as possible. Urgent Care Clinics in Omaha & Bellevue, Nebraska has three locations in the Omaha metropolitan area. Our three walk-in clinics are:

• Bellevue Urgent Care

DisclaimerThe information contained on this webpage is for educational purposes as well as to provide general information and general understanding of the pertinent medical issue only, not to provide a specific diagnosis. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. By using this blog/web site you understand there is no doctor patient relationship between you and the blog/web site publisher. The information included on this site should not be used as a substitute for medical advice from a licensed medical professional in your state. Neither Urgent Care Network, its subsidiaries, affiliates, assignees or successors in interest, nor any other party assume liability for loss or damage due to reliance on content of this blog/web site. If you are experiencing a severe medical issue, you should seek emergency assistance immediately.

PROMPT. PERSONAL. PROFESSIONAL.

Read Also: How Long Does A Chlamydia Urine Test Take

Can A Uti Cause Cystitis

While not all urinary tract infections lead to cystitis, it is possible for untreated UTIs to spread to the bladder. A bladder infection causing cystitis is a specific type of urinary tract infection that often occurs when bacteria from another part of the urinary tract enter the bladder. To prevent this from occurring, see your healthcare provider to obtain treatment for a UTI promptly.

Who Should Be Tested

There is no evidence that routine urinalysis is a cost-effective screening examination. It may be considered in newly arrived refugees of all ages and ethnicities who are developmentally mature enough to provide a clean-catch urine specimen. A bag specimen may be checked for younger children, if clinically indicated, with confirmation of positive findings by catheterization.1 This recommendation is more conservative than the current American Academy of Pediatric guidelines for children residing in the United States, because of the higher prevalences of specific conditions that may be detected in refugee children .

Don’t Miss: Chlamydia And Gonorrhea Treatment Online

Accuracy Of Standard Uti Tests

In reality, antibiotics are very often prescribed without any form of UTI test. Patients and doctors are very competent at recognizing the symptoms of a UTI, but there are issues with this approach.

Statistics show that 26-44% of females will experience a recurrence of their first UTI. In this 26-44%, it is likely the initial treatment failed.

Evidence suggests that with each recurrence of UTI, another recurrence becomes more likely.

The more UTIs you have, the more likely you are to get another.

If your UTI treatment failed the first time, it is crucial to find out why as soon as possible, in order to break the cycle of recurrence before it escalates.

So why dont the standard UTI test methods provide the answers you need?

First, lets take a quick look at those urine test strips you can use at home or at the doctors office. Then well explain some of the problems with urine culturing done at a lab.

Knowing the issues with both of these tests will arm you with the right questions to ask if you feel like your negative results are wrong.

Weve also created a free download that provides a breakdown of the different types of testing. Provide the email address at which youd like to receive the download, at the end of this article. .

You May Like: How Quickly Can You Detect Chlamydia

What Is A Uti

A urinary tract infection is an infection of the urinary system and urinary tract and is usually caused by bacteria. UTIs most often occur in the bladder and urethra . Urinary tract infections are typically mild but, left untreated, can spread to other parts of the urinary tract, like the kidneys . Pyelonephritis is more serious and can cause permanent damage to the kidneys.

Also Check: What Is The Main Cause Of Chlamydia

What Do The Results Mean

• A negative test result means that you did not have a chlamydia infection when the sample was collected.
• A positive test result means you have been infected with chlamydia.

If your test result is positive, you will need antibiotics to treat your infection. Your provider will give you instructions on how to take your medicine. To make sure your infection is cured, follow the instructions carefully and finish all the medicine.

You will also need to let your sexual partner/s know you tested positive for chlamydia so that they can be tested and treated if necessary. Three months after you finish treatment, you will need to be tested for chlamydia again to check for a new infection. That’s because repeat infections are very common. Ask your provider to tell you how often to get tested after that.

Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results.

What Std Can Be Detected By Urine Test

Urine testing is currently primarily used to detect bacterial STDs. Chlamydia and gonorrhea urine tests are widely available. Trichomoniasis urine tests are also available, but they are less common. The gold standard for diagnosing bacterial STDs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, used to be bacterial culture.

Read Also: Is Chlamydia Hard To Get Rid Of

Urinary Tract Infections In Babies And Young Children

Babies and children are at risk of UTIs. These infections always need to be investigated as they may indicate a serious underlying condition, such as urinary reflux. Reflux is caused by a bladder valve problem allowing urine to flow back into the kidneys from the bladder. Reflux can cause the urine to stay inside the body increasing the risk of infection. It may lead to kidney scarring, which in turn leads to high blood pressure and sometimes kidney problems.

Increasing Worsening Or Changing Symptoms

If any of your symptoms increase, worsen or change from the normal UTI symptoms, it might be an STD instead. If symptoms start to include ones like discharge or smell, its far more likely to be one of the most common STDs instead.

For any repeated urinary tract infections that appear to keep coming back, see your doctor: There are many things that can cause repeated UTIs. The same is true for any symptoms that can point to more than just an STD: Again, see your doctor.

You May Like: If I Take Antibiotics Will It Cure Chlamydia

How Much Is The Cost Of Std Testing Near Me In The Us

STD testing cost ranges between $24 and $444 in different labs and facilities across the U.S. No prior appointment is required. Compare the price, order your test online and visit the nearest lab during lab business hours or shop the STD home testing kit. Complete the procedure and get the results in your email in 2 to 3 business days.

Our below-mentioned STD testing providers do not accept any health insurance policy but, on request, they can provide the itemized receipt which is necessary for insurance reimbursement purposes.

The following table shows the cost of the STD test and STD home test kit at 3 of our partner laboratories network located across the U.S.