Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common and uncomfortable condition that can cause significant disruption to your daily life. While many simple UTIs can be managed by a GP, recurrent or complicated infections require specialist urological assessment.
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Mr Azhar Khan, a leading Consultant Urological and Robotic Surgeon in London, provides expert evaluation and management for patients suffering from both straightforward and complex UTIs. His practice is focused on accurately diagnosing the cause of the infection, providing effective treatment, and developing strategies to prevent recurrence.
- Comprehensive Diagnosis of UTIs
- Management of Simple and Complicated Infections
- Investigation of Recurrent UTIs
- Personalised Antibiotic and Non-Antibiotic Strategies
- Advanced Diagnostic Imaging and Cystoscopy
- Care for Both Male and Female Patients
Understanding Urinary Tract Infections
A UTI occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply, leading to an infection. Most commonly, this affects the lower urinary tract, which includes the bladder (cystitis) and the urethra (urethritis).
Symptoms often include a burning sensation when urinating, a frequent and urgent need to go to the toilet, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine. If the infection travels to the upper urinary tract and affects the kidneys (pyelonephritis), it can become more serious, causing fever and back pain.
The Importance of an Accurate Diagnosis
While the symptoms of a UTI can be straightforward, a proper diagnosis is key to effective treatment. Mr Azhar Khan begins with a thorough consultation to understand your symptoms and medical history.
A simple urine dipstick test can provide immediate clues, but a definitive diagnosis is made with a mid-stream urine (MSU) culture. This laboratory test identifies the specific bacteria causing the infection and, crucially, determines which antibiotics will be most effective at treating it, helping to avoid antibiotic resistance.
Investigating Recurrent or Complicated UTIs
For individuals who suffer from recurrent UTIs (two or more infections in six months, or three or more in a year) or complicated infections, further investigation is necessary. Mr Khan may recommend imaging tests, such as a kidney and bladder ultrasound, to look for any structural abnormalities, stones, or issues with bladder emptying that could be contributing to the problem.
In some cases, a cystoscopy a camera-based examination of the bladder may be required to get a detailed view of the bladder lining and rule out other underlying conditions.
Personalised Treatment for UTIs
Treatment for a simple UTI typically involves a short course of targeted antibiotics. For recurrent infections, Mr Khan develops a personalised management plan. This may involve strategies such as low-dose, long-term antibiotic prophylaxis or post-intercourse antibiotics for women whose UTIs are related to sexual activity.
Alongside medical treatment, he provides comprehensive lifestyle and behavioural advice to help reduce the risk of future infections. This includes guidance on hydration, voiding habits, and other preventative measures.
Key Benefits
Specialist Urological Expertise
In-depth knowledge of complex and recurrent urinary tract infections.
Tailored Prevention Strategies
Personalised plans to break the cycle of recurrent infections.
Accurate Microbiological Diagnosis
Use of urine culture and sensitivity testing to guide effective treatment.
Judicious Use of Antibiotics
A focus on targeted therapy to minimise antibiotic resistance.
Advanced Investigations
Access to ultrasound and cystoscopy to identify underlying causes.
Holistic Patient Care
Comprehensive advice on lifestyle and behavioural changes to support urinary health.
Why Choose Mr Azhar Khan?
Mr Azhar Khan is a highly respected Consultant Urological Surgeon in London with a special interest in managing both common and complex urological conditions. As a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, he is committed to providing evidence-based, patient-focused care.
Patients appreciate his thorough and empathetic approach, ensuring they have a clear understanding of their condition and a robust plan to manage it. His expertise allows for a comprehensive assessment that goes beyond simply treating the current infection to address the root cause.
Book Your Consultation Today
If you are struggling with the symptoms of a urinary tract infection, or are caught in a cycle of recurrent UTIs, seeking specialist advice is a crucial step towards finding a long-term solution.
To schedule a comprehensive evaluation with Mr Azhar Khan at his London clinic, please arrange an appointment. You will receive an expert diagnosis and a clear, personalised plan to restore your urinary health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common cause of a UTI?
The vast majority of UTIs are caused by the bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli), which normally lives in the gut. Bacteria can travel from the skin around the anus to the urethra and into the bladder, causing an infection.
Why are UTIs more common in women?
Women are more susceptible to UTIs primarily because their urethra is shorter than a man’s, which means bacteria have a shorter distance to travel to reach the bladder. The urethral opening is also closer to the anus in women.
Can UTIs be treated without antibiotics?
While very mild UTIs may sometimes clear up on their own with increased fluid intake, antibiotics are the standard and most effective treatment to resolve the infection and prevent complications. For recurrent UTIs, non-antibiotic prevention strategies are often recommended.
What happens if a UTI is left untreated?
An untreated lower UTI (cystitis) can travel up to the kidneys and cause a more serious infection called pyelonephritis. This can lead to complications such as kidney damage or, in rare cases, sepsis, a life-threatening reaction to infection.
How can I prevent UTIs?
Key prevention strategies include staying well-hydrated, urinating when you feel the need rather than holding it in, wiping from front to back after using the toilet, and urinating shortly after sexual intercourse. Avoiding irritating feminine products can also help.