How is a urinary tract infection (UTI) diagnosed?

Transcript

There are several ways to diagnose a urinary tract infection. Healthcare providers may ask for your urine sample, examine it in the lab to check for white blood cells, red blood cells, or bacteria. A urine culture may also be conducted to identify the bacteria causing the infection and determine which medication will be the most effective.

In cases of recurrent UTIs, imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scan, MRI may be ordered to check for structural problems in the urinary tract. A cystoscopy may also be performed, which involves inserting a long thin tube with a lens into the urethra and bladder to examine the urinary tract. The procedure may be recommended if recurrent UTIs are suspected.