Author: Dr. Thomas R. Blake, MD

How to Prepare for a Kidney Ultrasound: Step-by-Step Guide

Are You Properly Prepared for Your Kidney Ultrasound? Answer a few quick questions and receive a personalized preparation checklist. 1. Is your ultrasound scheduled as…
Can Pets Carry Bacteria That Lead to UTIs?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are frustratingly common, affecting millions each year. Often associated with bacterial contamination, UTIs can cause discomfort, pain, and even more serious…
Kidney Ultrasound vs CT Scan: What’s the Difference?

Kidneys are vital organs responsible for filtering waste products from the blood, maintaining electrolyte balance, and regulating blood pressure. When kidney function is compromised or…
What Are the Best Preventive Steps After Sex?

Sexual health is often discussed in terms of avoiding unwanted outcomes – preventing STIs, unplanned pregnancies, and navigating consent. However, focusing solely on prevention overlooks…
Why Your Doctor Might Recommend a Kidney Ultrasound

Kidneys are often unsung heroes of our bodies, quietly performing essential functions like filtering waste products from the blood, regulating fluid balance, and contributing to…
Can a UTI Be Caused by Your Own Bacteria?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are incredibly common, affecting millions annually. Most people associate UTIs with external sources – bacteria entering from outside the body. However,…
Understanding Kidney Ultrasound: What It Shows and How It Works

Kidney ultrasound is a remarkably common diagnostic tool used by healthcare professionals to visualize the kidneys and surrounding structures. It’s non-invasive, relatively quick, and doesn’t…
How to Prevent UTIs Without Taking Medication

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are incredibly common, affecting millions of people each year – particularly women. They can range from mildly annoying to severely debilitating,…
What Are the Latest Non-Antibiotic UTI Treatments?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are incredibly common, affecting millions of people annually – disproportionately women, but certainly impacting men too. While traditionally treated with antibiotics,…
Can a Hot Bath Soothe UTI Discomfort?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are incredibly common, affecting millions of people each year—disproportionately women—and can range from mildly annoying to severely debilitating. The discomfort associated…