Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a very common type of infection. It affects millions of people worldwide each year. Even though they are common there are misconceptions about UTIs. Specifically about their causes. Along with the symptoms and risks. In this blog, you will take a look at these factors. Which are noted by the Mayo Clinic and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
What is a UTI?
A UTI is an infection. You get this infection in any part of your urinary system. This includes your kidneys and uterus. As well as in the bladder and urethra. Most of the UTIs involve your lower urinary tract. Which is the bladder and the urethra. It is important to note that UTIs can affect anyone. However, they are more common in women.
What Causes a UTI?
The main cause of UTIs is bacteria. This bacteria enters the urinary tract. It does this through the urethra. It then multiplies in the bladder. The most common bacteria that causes UTIs is called Escherichia coli (E.coli). This is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The following are the different factors. Factors that can help bacteria. Help them enter the urinary tract:
- Sexual Activity: Being sexually active can lead to UTIs. Intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract.
- Female Body: Women have a shorter urethra than men. Due to this, there is less distance for the bacteria to travel. This makes it easier to get to the bladder.
- Some Birth Controls: Using diaphragms can add to your risk of a UTI. Along with spermicidal agents.
- Urinary Catheter: Catheters used in medical settings can introduce bacteria. Thus leading to a UTI.
- Menopause: When menopause occurs there is less circulating estrogen. This causes changes in the urinary tract.
- Hygiene: Improper wiping after using the bathroom is never good. This can transfer bacteria.
- Immune System Suppression: Conditions like diabetes and other illnesses that impair the immune system can increase the risk of UTIs.
Symptoms of UTIs
UTI symptoms can vary. It depends on which part of the urinary tract is affected. Common symptoms include:
- Urge to Urinate: You will have a constant need to urinate. Even if you've just gone.
- Burning Feeling: You may have pain or discomfort. This pain happens while urinating.
- Cloudy Urine: Your urine may appear cloudy. It can also have a strong odor.
- Pelvic Pain: Women may have pain. This pain happens around the pelvic area. Especially in the center of the pelvis. This is around the pubic bone.
- Blood: You can have hematuria. This means blood in the urine.
Your infection can spread to your kidneys. If so your symptoms can become more serious. Symptoms can include upper back and side pain. A high fever with shaking and chills. Along with nausea and vomiting. Kidney infections are serious. If you get one they require fast medical attention.
Prevention and Treatment
Preventing UTIs involves good hygiene practices and staying hydrated. In addition to urinating regularly. Be sure to drink plenty of water. This helps dilute urine. Which ensures regular urination. This leads to flushing out bacteria. That is in your urinary tract. Getting treatment typically involves antibiotics. These are prescribed by your healthcare provider. It’s crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics. Even if your symptoms improve.
Visit Clinicas
If you have UTI symptoms don't hesitate to seek medical advice. Visit Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. CAREPLUS Urgent Care. Clinicas has you covered! Clinicas has two convenient CAREPLUS Urgent Care locations. The RSJ Health Care Center in Oxnard. As well as the East Simi Valley Health Care Center. Clinicas Urgent Care Services providers are ready to help you. They are here to provide prompt and effective treatment. To ensure your swift recovery. Let Clinicas prioritize your health today!