What Causes Urinary Tract Infections and How Can You Prevent Them?

A study shows that 25-40% of women in the US aged 20-40 years have had a urinary tract infections (UTI) at some point in their lifetime. UTIs are more common in women, but they can occur in men, older adults, and children. In this article, we will discuss the causes and symptoms of UTIs and how to prevent them.

What are Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)?

A urinary tract infection is a widespread infection that affects the urinary system. UTIs can affect any component of your urinary system, including the urethra (urethritis), ureters, bladder (cystitis), and kidneys (pyelonephritis). Common UTI symptoms include frequent urination, pain while urinating, and pain on your side or lower back. UTIs are usually treated with antibiotics.

What Causes Urinary Tract Infection?

Infections in the urinary system are caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and bladder, causing irritation and infection.Also read: What Are the Major Signs of Inflammation in Your Body?

Causes and Risk Factors of a UTI

Several variables can raise your risk of acquiring a UTI, which include:

• Age – UTIs are more common in older people.
• Kidney stones
• A prior UTI infection
• Extended bed rest or restricted mobility after surgery.
• Obstructions or blockages of the urinary tract, e.g., an enlarged prostate, kidney stones, and certain cancers
• The use of urinary catheters for an extended period might increase the chances of a bacterial infection in your bladder.
• Diabetes, especially if it is poorly controlled, might increase your chances of getting a urinary tract infection (UTI).
• Pregnancy
• Abnormally developed urinary structures since birth
• Weak immune system

Also read: 7 Easy Tips On How To Get Rid Of Sunburns Fast

What are the key symptoms of urinary tract infections (UTI)?

The lining of the urinary tract becomes red and inflamed (inflammation) as a result of a urinary tract infection, which can cause some of the following symptoms:

• Side, abdominal, or pelvic pain.
• Pressure in the lower pelvis.
• The urge to urinate frequently and urgently and incontinence (urine leakage).
• Dysuria (painful urination) with blood in the urine.
• Feeling an urge to urinate during the middle of the night.
• Strong or foul-smelling and abnormally colored urine (cloudy urine).

Also read: Signs Of Sleep Apnea – Should I Call A Doctor?A urinary tract infection might also cause the following symptoms:

• Discomfort during sex
• Painful penis (in males)
• Lower backache
• Fatigue.
• Fever over 100°F and chills.
• Vomiting.
• Confusion or mental changes.

Also read: 6 Key Health Tips for Men in Their 40s & 50s

Prevention of UTI Infections

There are a few things you can do to lower your chances of getting a UTI. These include:

• Keep yourself hydrated.
• Urinate frequently.
• Limit alcohol and caffeine intake.
• Urinate after sex.
• After urinating/ bowel movements, wipe from front to back.
• Clean the genital area properly.
• Take showers instead of baths and avoid using oils.
• During your periods, use menstrual or cups sanitary pads instead of tampons.
• Avoid using chemicals or scented products in your genital area.
• To keep the area around the urethra dry, use cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing.

If you find blood in your urine or are experiencing any of the symptoms of a UTI, then you should schedule a visit at MI Express Urgent Care in Ann Arbor & Canton, MI. We offer excellent health services, and our team can efficiently treat all types of urinary tract infections. Book an appointment today!