UTIs (urinary tract infections) can occur in as many as 60% of women. They usually affect the bladder or the urethra. However, more severe UTIs can involve the kidneys.
UTIs can be very uncomfortable. They can lead to frequent and painful urination and can even cause cramping in the stomach. Untreated UTIs can lead to serious health problems such as kidney infections.
While your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection; however, these steps can be taken to prevent future UTIs.
What Is A UTI?
A urinary tract infection (UTI), is a bacterial infection that can affect your urinary system. It can attack any part of the urinary tract.
- Your kidneys are responsible for the conversion of waste to urine.
- Your urine ureters carry urine from your kidneys into your bladder.
- Your bladder stores urine.
- The urethra is the part of your bladder that carries urine to the outside world.
UTIs can be caused by microbes entering the urinary tract. E.coli is the most commonly causing bacteria. Experts, says that UTIs can also occur when there are other infections. He says that UTIs can also be caused either by viruses or fungi, like herpes.
UTIs can be caused by any age or gender, but UTIs are more common in women.
UTIs: What Causes Are They?
UTIs are more common in certain people than others. Women aged between 14 and 24 years old, as well as women over 65 years of age, are more likely to experience UTIs. Women are more likely to experience UTIs because their urethras are shorter and closer to their rectum than men’s. This aspect of their anatomy allows bacteria to gain easier access to the urinary system.
UTIs can also be caused by:
- Previous UTIs
- Sexual activity
- Menopause
- Spermicidal
- Pregnancy
- Aging
- Poor hygiene, especially among children
UTI Symptoms
Experts say that UTIs are characterized by frequent urination and burning sensations while voiding. Urinary infection can be characterized by:
- Dysuria is a burning sensation when you urinate. A burning sensation when you urinate is usually a sign of a bladder infection. However, a burning sensation throughout the process could indicate a vaginal infection.
- Even if your bladder has empty, you feel the urge to urinate frequently
- Urine contaminated with blood
- Your lower pelvis should be pressured
- You may also experience symptoms such as:
- Fever
- Chills
- Lower back pain
- Nausea
You may not be able to tell your child about the symptoms of a UTI. Although fever is the most common sign of UTIs in children, not all children with fever have one. If you think your child may have UTI signs and symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.
Treatments For UTI
Your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms and order tests such as a urine culture or urinalysis if necessary. Sometimes, symptoms of STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) can mimic symptoms of a UTI.
UTIs can be caused by bacterial infections. Antibiotics such as Bactria and Septra, Nitrofurantoin (Keflex), Rocephin, and nitrofurantoin (Nitrogenoin) are the most commonly prescribed options. Side effects of antibiotics include nausea, diarrhea, and fungal infections. Recurrent UTIs can make you resistant to antibiotics. In this case, your doctor may recommend a different treatment.
Experts say that cranberry juice and supplements containing cranberry extract are “perhaps the most popular natural remedies for UTIs”. Experts say that cranberries are rich in compounds like phenolic acid and flavonoids which may be beneficial for UTIs. He says that while cranberry juice can prevent infection, it won’t treat it.
If you feel burning in your urinate, or if the symptoms don’t improve within 2 days or persist after treatment, it is a good idea to see a doctor.
How To Prevent Utis?
There are simple steps you can take that will reduce your chances of contracting a urinary tract infection.
Consuming lots of fluids, particularly water. You can remove bacteria from your urinary tract by urinating more.
Consuming cranberry products some studies have shown that products containing cranberry-like juices and supplements may help to prevent the development of UTIs.
Wiping the area from front to rear can help prevent bacteria from entering the urethra.
After having sex, empty your bladder Drink water to flush out any bacteria.
Avoiding allergens and irritants your urethra can be irritated by perfumes, sprays, or other scented products.
Changing your birth control plan Risk factors such as diaphragms and unlubricated condoms (spermicidal or diaphragms) can increase the risk of bacterial infections.
What Happens If A UTI Isn’t Treated?
Untreated bacteria in the urethra can spread to the kidneys, causing a kidney infection. High fever, severe back pain, and nausea can all be signs of a kidney infection. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to immediately notify your doctor. Your blood may also be contaminated, although this is rare. If the infection spreads from your kidney(s), it can cause sepsis.
About 20% of UTIs are resolved by themselves in women who have been infected. If you still have symptoms after a few days contact your doctor.