Urinary Tract Infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that affects any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.

Urinary Tract Infection: A Common but Treatable Condition

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A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that affects any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. The urinary system is responsible for producing, storing, and eliminating urine, a waste product of the blood-filtering process.

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UTIs are very common, especially among women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB), who have a shorter urethra than men and people assigned male at birth (AMAB). According to the Cleveland Clinic, about 20% of people with AFAB will have a UTI at some point in their lives. UTIs can also affect children, though less frequently.

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Causes Of UTIs

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The most common cause of UTIs is Escherichia coli (E. coli), a type of bacteria that normally lives in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. E. coli can enter the urinary system through the urethra, which is close to the anus in both sexes. Other bacteria, such as Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Proteus mirabilis, can also cause UTIs.

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Symptoms & Types of UTI

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The symptoms of a UTI depend on which part of the urinary system is infected. The most common type of UTI is cystitis, or bladder infection, which causes:

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  • A strong urge to urinate that doesn't go away
  • A burning sensation when urinating
  • Passing small amounts of urine frequently
  • Cloudy, foul-smelling or bloody urine
  • Pelvic pain or pressure
  • Lower abdominal discomfort

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Another type of UTI is pyelonephritis, or kidney infection, which can result from an untreated or severe bladder infection. Kidney infections are more serious and can cause:

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  • Fever and chills
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Back or flank pain
  • Blood in the urine

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A third type of UTI is urethritis, or urethral infection, which affects the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. Urethritis can cause:

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  • Burning or pain when urinating
  • Discharge from the urethra

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Diagnosis Of UTIs

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The diagnosis of a UTI is based on the symptoms, medical history, and a urine test. The urine test can detect the presence of bacteria and white blood cells, which indicate an infection. Sometimes, a urine culture may be done to identify the specific type of bacteria causing the infection and determine the best antibiotic treatment.

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Treatments Of UTI

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The treatment of a UTI usually involves taking oral antibiotics for a few days to a week, depending on the severity and type of infection. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by the doctor, even if the symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence or complications.

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Some home remedies that may help relieve the symptoms and prevent further infections include:

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  • Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, to flush out the bacteria and dilute the urine
  • Avoiding drinks that may irritate the bladder, such as alcohol, caffeine, and citrus juices
  • Taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to ease discomfort
  • Applying a heating pad or a warm compress to the lower abdomen or back to soothe the pain
  • Wiping from front to back after using the toilet to prevent bacteria from spreading to the urethra
  • Urinating before and after sexual intercourse to flush out any bacteria that may enter the urinary system
  • Wearing cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes to keep the genital area dry and prevent bacterial growth

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Conclusion

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UTIs are a common but treatable condition that can affect anyone at any age. By recognizing the symptoms early and seeking medical attention promptly, most UTIs can be cured without complications. By following some simple preventive measures, such as drinking enough water and practising good hygiene, one can reduce the risk of getting a UTI in the future.

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Sources:

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[1] Mayo Clinic. Urinary tract infection (UTI) - Symptoms and causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-tract-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20353447

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[2] Cleveland Clinic. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9135-urinary-tract-infections

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[3] Southern Cross NZ. Urinary tract infection - causes, symptoms, and treatment. https://www.southerncross.co.nz/medical-library/womens-health/urinary-tract-infection-causes-symptoms-and-treatment