What is UTI?

UTI arises due to the entry of harmful bacteria or, in isolated cases, fungi, viruses in the urinary tract. Escherichia coli (E. coli), which are normal intestinal occupants, are the most commonly causative organisms of UTIs. The infection normally begins in the urethra, and may travel up to the bladder or kidneys, resulting in the initiation of differing levels of infection.


The urinary system is also designed in such a manner that bacteria cannot penetrate the bladder. When the natural defenses are however impaired, then the bacteria might be able to increase thereby leading to an infection. UTIs are classified based on their location in the urinary system:


  • Cystitis: Bladder infection
  • Urethritis: Urethra infection
  • Pyelonephritis: Kidney infection
  • Prostatitis: men infection of the prostate.

Causes of UTIs

Introduction of bacteria in the urinary tract is the main cause of UTI. Via the urethra, bacteria can get into the urinary system. Some of the most common risk factors to develop a UTI include:


  • Gender: The women experience the increase in UTIs more because they do not have a long-enough urethra that prevents bacteria from moving to the bladder with ease.
  • Sexual Activity: Sexual intercourse has a potential to put bacteria into the urinary tract particularly when good hygiene is not observed.
  • Urinary Retention: Inability to empty the bladder or rarely urinating can cause the risk of infection to increase.
  • Low Hygiene: Wiping back to front after using the toilet may foster bacteria of the rectum to the urethra and raise the risk of a UTI.
  • Catheter Use: UTI can be caused by the introduction of bacteria into the urinary tract by use of urinary catheters.
  • Pregnancy: Pregnancy-related changes in hormones might also influence the urinary tract and expose it to infections.
  • Medical Conditions: Diabetes, kidney stones, and weakened immune system can put an individual at risk of experiencing UTI.

Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection


UTI may have a variety of symptoms based on the location of infection. UTIs are manifested in common signs and symptoms:


  • Frequent and Urgent Need to Urinate: A need of frequency and urgency when it comes to urinating, often with little urine.
  • Pain or Burning Sensation During Urination: It is a regular symptom of cystitis or urethritis.
  • Cloudy or Bloody Urine: Urine can be considered cloudy or even dark with the traces of blood.
  • Strong Smelling Urine: Urine can also have a strong odor that can indicate that it is being infected.
  • Pelvic or Lower Abdominal Pain: Pain or discomfort in the lower part of the abdomen, especially in women.
  • Fever and Chills: These are the possible symptoms of a kidney infection (pyelonephritis) and which need urgent medical service.
  • Nausea and Vomiting: It is more likely to develop in situations of kidney infections.

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Diagnosis of a Urinary Tract Infection

Doctors commonly conduct a urine culture to determine the bacteria responsible to cause the infection in a UTI. In others, a urine sample is tested on the presence of white blood cells and bacteria. In case the infection has spread to the kidneys or other components of the urinary system, imaging tests such as the ultrasound or the CT scans may be asked.


Treatment of UTIs

  • Antibiotics can be effectively used to treat most UTIs. The class of antibiotic prescribed is due to the kind of bacteria that is causing the infection and the health history of the patient. It is important to remember to take the course of antimicrobials, which is prescribed to you, until the end, even though you might improve the state of your health before the treatment is over. As a result of not doing it fast there is the risk of the infection reoccurring or developing resistance to antibiotics.
  • Antibiotics: Some of the commonly used antibiotics to treat UTIs include trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, nitrofurantoin, and ciprofloxacin. In the case of kidney infections, the treatment may have to be more aggressive, in which case intravenous antibiotics can be used.
  • Pain Relief: OTC painkillers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be taken to relieve the pain of UTIs. Certain drugs like the phenazopyridine can be administered to numb the urinary tract and relieve pain.
  • Hydration: It is imperative that during treatment a lot of water is taken as it helps clear the urinary track of bacteria.
  • Hospitalization: In serious cases (like with kidney infections or in people having compromised immune systems), intravenous antibiotics and fluids may require hospitalization.

Preventing Urinary Tract Infections

Although in most cases UTIs can be treated successfully, prevention is the best thing to do so as to minimize recurrence of infections. Practical advice that can be given to prevent UTIs would be:


  • Hydration: drink as much fluid especially water so that it can flush bacteria out of the urinary tract.
  • Urinate Frequently: Do not hold urine when it is long. Finally empty the bladder at a regular time, preferably after sexual intercourse.
  • Wipe Properly: Wipe back and forth to avoid bacteria carried out of the rectum and into the urethra.
  • Wear Cotton Underwear: Cotton is breathable and allows the genital area to be dry. Tight fitting clothing and clothing made of synthetic materials that are capable of retaining moisture should be avoided.
  • Urinate After Sexual Intercourse: This will be able to help in flushing off any bacteria that may have been introduced during the sexual activity.
  • Don’t Rub a Dub with Feminine Products: Douches, powders, and other products can irritate the urinary tract and predispose it to infection.
  • Consider Probiotics: some studies have suggested that probiotics may help in keeping a positive balance of bacteria in the urinary tract.

Conclusion

One of the common health issues which is treatable includes Urinary Tract Infections. Timely diagnosis and administration of antibiotics could be used to avoid complications and ensure recovery. With some preventive measures and good hygiene, you can greatly contribute to lowering your risk development of developing a UTI. Your health care provider should always be consulted in case of a UTI, particularly due to the severity of symptoms, such as fever, chills, or abdominal pain. 


Please book an appointment with the best Urologist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find a verified doctor for your disease.