Read on to learn about the common causes of UtIs, how its treated and what you can do to help prevent it.
If you've ever felt the sting and discomfort of a urinary tract infection (UTI), more commonly known as a bladder infection, you'll know it's an experience you'd rather avoid repeating. UTIs, although common, can bring about severe discomfort, often compared to a 'burn' sensation, disrupting daily life and activities. This article covers the causes, symptoms & treatment of UTIs - everything you need to know to go from 'burn' to 'better'.
Common Causes
What leads to UTIs? Can they be avoided?
Urinary tract infections are caused primarily by bacteria entering the urinary tract and starting to multiply. This can come from various sources, some more difficult to avoid than others. However, there are precautions you can take to reduce the risk. But it's always best to consult with your doctor or a health professional if you're concerned.
Bacteria
Most often, the culprit behind a UTI is Escherichia coli (E. coli), a type of bacteria usually found in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. While it can stay peacefully in your gut, it becomes problematic when it enters your urinary tract.
Inadequate Cleaning: Women, in particular, should be cautious when wiping after a bowel movement to prevent bacteria from the anal region reaching the urinary tract.
Sexual Activity: This represents another common cause, as bacteria can be moved around and could get introduced into the urethra.
Anatomical Factors
The difference in anatomy between men and women plays a significant role in the higher UTI prevalence in women. A woman's urethra is shorter and closer to the anus, making it easier for the bacteria to reach the bladder.
Lifestyle Factors
Certain lifestyle factors can contribute to the development of UTIs. Holding in urine for long periods of time, not emptying the bladder completely, or using irritating feminine hygiene products can all increase the risk of UTIs.
Medical Conditions and Procedures
Another cause of UTIs is a weakened immune system. When the immune system is compromised, it becomes less effective at fighting off infections, including those in the urinary tract. This can make a person more susceptible to developing UTIs. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or HIV/AIDS, can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of UTIs.
Symptoms of UTIs
When it comes to urinary tract infections, symptoms can range from subtle to hard to ignore. The aggressive nature of the infecting bacteria usually creates an uncomfortable situation for anyone dealing with UTI.
Here's a list of some common symptoms:
Urinary urgency: This refers to a sudden, intense urge to urinate, often turning out to be an unproductive attempt.
Burning sensation during urination: An unusual discomfort or stinging feeling is quite common, making it one of the primary identifiers of a UTI.
Cloudy, strong-smelling urine: The presence of bacteria and pus often gives the urine a cloudy appearance with an increased foul smell.
Lower abdominal pain: Often, discomfort or pain in the lower belly can be a symptom of a UTI.
Blood in the urine (Hematuria): This can directly result from the infection, causing injury to the urinary tract walls.
Feeling tired or shaky: The body often responds to infection by displaying signs of general illness that one might overlook.
Burn to Better: Diagnosing and Treating UTIs
Self-diagnosing a UTI based solely on symptoms can lead to misdiagnosis and delay in receiving appropriate treatment. Different types of bacteria can cause UTIs, and the specific bacteria causing the infection may require specific antibiotics for effective treatment. Only a healthcare professional can accurately identify the type of infection and prescribe the appropriate medication.
The doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and will check your abdomen or back for tenderness. Additionally, the doctor may order laboratory tests, such as a urinalysis, to check for the presence of bacteria or white blood cells in the urine. Sometimes, a urine culture may be done to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection. These diagnostic tests help the doctor confirm the presence of a UTI and determine the appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment
Treating a UTI usually involves a course of antibiotics to eliminate the infection. The prescribed antibiotic will depend on factors such as the patient's age, sex, overall health, and the type of bacteria causing the infection. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics as the doctor prescribes, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished. This helps eradicate all the bacteria and reduces the risk of recurrent infections. In addition to antibiotics, the doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate discomfort and increase fluid intake to help flush out the bacteria from the urinary tract.
What you can do
You can take some practical steps at home to manage your UTI. Drink plenty of water as it flushes out the bacteria causing the infection and lessens discomfort. Try to consume at least eight to ten glasses of water daily. You also want to avoid irritating your bladder further. How? Steer clear of caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, which are known to exacerbate UTI symptoms.
A simple home remedy for UTIs is applying a heating pad or hot water bottle to your lower abdomen. This can alleviate UTI-related pain and discomfort.
Over-the-counter pain relievers can help ease UTI symptoms briefly. Drugs like ibuprofen could reduce pain and swelling. But always check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting any medication, especially if you have other health issues or take other medications.
Maintaining good hygiene is crucial when managing a UTI at home. Make sure to always wipe from front to back after using the bathroom to prevent the spread of bacteria from the anal area to the urethra. Additionally, avoid using harsh soaps or douches in the genital area, as these can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and potentially worsen UTI symptoms.
Experiencing urinary tract infections can be distressing, inconvenient, and painful. But remember, it's a common ailment and, most importantly, treatable. Knowing the causes, recognising the symptoms early, and seeking appropriate medical help can make a world of difference. Take charge of your well-being because health always comes first!