More than half of the people in the world might have come across a urinary tract infection at some point of life. The disease is common in both genders but women are more prone to get infected and belongs to the high-risk category. Compared to men, women have a smaller urethra, so bacteria have a smaller distance to travel before reaching the urinary tract. Also due to the lifestyle changes women are affected over 50% each year. UTI is a generalized term used to refer bacterial or fungal growth in any part of the urinary system — your kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most of the infections are associated with bladder and the urethra. UTI can be treated within 2-3days, but if the infection persists then medications should be continued till it subsides.



What are the causes of Urinary tract infections? The infection typically occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and starts to multiply in the bladder. Cystitis (Infection of the bladder) – Typically, this type of infection is caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli). They are generally found in the gastrointestinal tract. The infection can also happen through sexual intercourse. All women belong to the risk category of cystitis because of their anatomy, specifically the short distance from the urethra to the bladder. Urethritis (Infection of the urethra) – The infection that occurs because of the spreading of the bacteria from anus to urethra. Since the urethral opening and vaginal opening is close enough, the infections get transmitted easily. Sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhea, chlamydia, mycoplasma etc. also leaves high risk for UTI.

What are the Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infections? The major symptoms include: A strong, persistent urge to urinate

Burning sensation while urinating

Urine incontinence (Passing urine in small amounts and feeling of incompleteness even after passing urine)

Fever associated with chills in the night

Turbid Urine (urine appears cloudy)

Signs of blood in urine.

Strong-smelling urine

Nausea and vomiting

Muscle aches and abdominal pains

Severe pelvic pain, in women — more pain felt in the center of pelvis and in the area near pubic bone. Method of Diagnosis Primary diagnosis is done by testing the urine sample. The test will reveal presence of white blood cells, red blood cells, and bacteria. If there is occurrence of recurrent infection, further tests like urine culture should be done to understand the mode of infection. Other techniques include: Diagnostic imaging: This includes assessing the urinary tract using USG, CT and MRI scanning, radiation tracking, or X-rays. Cystoscopy: This will allow to inspect the bladder and urethra with camera which is inserted through a long thin tube to urethra. Risk Factors Studies reveal that, over 50 percent of all women will experience the issue of urinary tract infection at least once during their lifetime, out of which 20 to 30 percent experiences recurrent UTIs. Unlike other women, pregnant ladies develop more chances for UTI. As it is very important regarding the safety of mother and child during pregnancy, the women are tested for presence of bacteria in their urine, even if there are no symptoms. People of any age and gender can develop a UTI. However, the risk category is:

Frequent sexual intercourse, or intercourse with multiple or new partners

Diabetes

Poor personal hygiene

Having a urinary catheter

Bowel incontinence

Blocked flow of urine

Kidney stones

Vaginal contraceptives

Pregnancy

Menopause

Weak immune system

Use of spermicides and tampons

Heavy use of antibiotics, which disturbs the natural flora of the urinary tract Types of urinary tract infection Part of urinary tract affected Signs and symptoms Kidneys (acute pyelonephritis) Upper back and side (flank) pain High fever Shaking and chills Nausea Vomiting Bladder (cystitis) Pelvic pressure Lower abdomen discomfort Frequent, painful urination Blood in urine Urethra (urethritis) Burning with urination Discharge