Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are common infections that affect any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. They occur when bacteria, often from the skin or rectum, enter the urethra and infect the urinary tract .cdc.gov+1nypost.com+1
🔍 Symptoms
UTI symptoms can vary based on the infection’s location:
- Bladder (Cystitis):
- Pain or burning sensation during urination
- Frequent urge to urinate, even with an empty bladder
- Cloudy, dark, or bloody urine
- Strong-smelling urine
- Pressure or cramping in the lower abdomennypost.
- Kidneys (Pyelonephritis):
- Fever and chills
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pain in the back or side
- Fatigue or general feeling of illnesspennmedicine.
In older adults, UTIs may manifest as confusion or behavioral changes .pennmedicine.org
🦠 Causes & Risk Factors
- Female anatomy (shorter urethra)
- Sexual activity
- Use of certain birth control methods (e.g., diaphragms)
- Menopause
- Urinary retention or incomplete bladder emptying
- Catheter use
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy
- Urinary tract abnormalities
💊 Treatment
UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics. The choice of antibiotic depends on the infection’s severity and the specific bacteria involved. For uncomplicated UTIs, a short course of antibiotics is often sufficient. In more severe cases, such as kidney infections, longer treatment may be necessary
Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate discomfort. In some cases, urinary tract analgesics like phenazopyridine may be prescribed to relieve burning and urgency
🛡️ Prevention Tips
To reduce the risk of UTIs:
- Drink plenty of water to flush out bacteria.
- Urinate regularly and don’t hold urine for prolonged periods.
- Wipe from front to back after using the toilet.
- Urinate before and after sexual activity.
- Avoid using irritating feminine products.
- Wear breathable, cotton underwear.
- Consider cranberry juice or supplements, though evidence on their effectiveness is mixed .