Worried about the burning sensation that you experience while urinating? And more worried about the appearance of blood in your urine? You may need to check with your doctor immediately. It may be a case of urinary tract infection! The infection may occur anywhere in the urinary tract, the main function of which is to filter and remove the liquid waste. Women are more susceptible to bacterial infections than men. This is because, women have a shorter urinary tract which allows for an easy invasion and multiplication of bacteria. For most of the times, urinary tract infection or UTI is not serious but it can be painful at times. It is estimated that around 50 percent of all women will have at least one urinary tract infection during their lifetimes. A sigh of relief! These infections can be easily treated with antibiotics.
How Does the Infection Occur?
Urinary tract infections are generally caused by germs. The bacteria enter the urethra and then the bladder. These bacteria come from the bowel that lives near the rectum or the vagina. If not treated at this stage, the microorganisms will move upward and infect the bladder. If the infection is not treated at this stage, the microorganisms will move further up into the kidneys through the ureters causing kidney infection.
The Risk Factors
- Gender: Women are at a greater risk than men. The reason is that the urethra is much closer to the anus in females than in males. Women have a shorter urethra, which cuts down on the distance the bacteria must travel to reach the bladder.
- Being Sexually Active: About 75 to 90% cases of UTI consist of bladder infections especially in young sexually active women.
- Use of Birth Control Pills: Women who are at a continuous use of birth control pills are at a higher risk of developing UTI.
- Menopause: Decrease of estrogen levels during menopause may lead to urinary tract infections.
What are the Other Medical Conditions That May Lead to UTI?
- Diabetes
- Problem in emptying your bladder completely
- Urinary catheter inserted in the urinary tract
- Bowel incontinence
- Enlarged prostate or anything that blocks the flow of the urine
- Kidney stones
- Staying immobile for a longer period of time due to hip fracture or any other medical complications
- Pregnancy
- Surgery or procedure involving the urinary tract.
The Possible Symptoms
- The urge to urinate frequently, even after the bladder is emptied.
- Burning sensation while urinating.
- Discomfort or pressure in the lower abdomen.
- Pain in the pelvic area and back.
- The urine is often accompanied with strong smell, it looks cloudy or contains blood.
- Occasional fever.
The symptoms When it Involves a Kidney Infection
- Increased need to urinate at night.
- Chills and persistent fever which last for more than two days.
- Pain in the back.
- Vomiting and nausea.
Treatment for Urinary Tract Infection
Simple treatments are available to cure urinary tract infections. It includes:
- Antibiotics for urinary tract infections are the most effective treatment.
- Women who suffer from recurrent bladder infection should take a single dose of an antibiotic after sexual contact. After diagnosis, she may be required to take a dosage of antibiotic medications for a 3-day period.
- Severe kidney infections may require medical intervention and even hospitalization.
Prevention of Urinary Tract Infection
Prevention of UTI is not a big deal. Small steps can mean a lot! Here is how you can prevent it:
- Drink lots of water. Water helps in flushing out the toxins, thereby preventing the growth of bacteria.
- Don't delay the nature's call. Urinate when you have to.
- Always wipe properly from front and back. These will prevent the transfer of bacteria from the rectum to the urethra.
- Avoid wearing tight clothing, bathing suits or nylon panties for a longer period of time. These clothing can trap moisture and bacteria as well.
- Do not use any feminine spray or perfume in the genital area.
- Drink cranberry juice and coconut water. They help in killing the bacteria in the urinary tract.
- Do not drink alcohol and caffeine as these drinks may irritate the bladder.
Urinary tract infections may cause you considerable discomfort, but they are curable as well. Moreover, they are preventable. So don't panic if you experience the symptoms! Check with your doctor and he will find you a cure.
