A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can affect your ureters, kidneys, urethra, or bladder. Most infections occur in the lower urinary tract, including the urethra and bladder, with women being more susceptible to UTIs than men. While a bladder infection can be annoying and painful, a UTI that reaches the kidneys can have serious consequences.
Doctors typically treat UTIs with antibiotics. If the infection is caused by bacteria like Escherichia coli, doctors might recommend an antibiotic sensitivity test to determine the most effective antibiotic based on current susceptibility patterns.
During pregnancy, a UTI can be worrisome. If you notice symptoms of a UTI, seek medical advice right away.
UTIs generally happen when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and start multiplying in the bladder. Despite the urinary system’s design to fend off these microscopic invaders, sometimes it fails. Common causes of UTIs include:
– Untreated urinary tract infections can lead to serious issues like severe kidney damage from acute or chronic kidney infections (pyelonephritis).
– In pregnant women, complications can include low birth weight or preterm labor.
– In men, repeated urethritis can cause urethral narrowing.
– Sepsis, a potentially life-threatening response to infection, particularly if the infection reaches the kidneys.
To diagnose a UTI, your doctor might:
– Analyze a urine sample for white blood cells, red blood cells, or bacteria.
– Grow urinary tract bacteria in a lab for further analysis.
– Create images of your urinary tract using ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI if frequent infections suggest an abnormality.
– Use a cystoscope to look inside your bladder and urethra if you have recurring UTIs.
Certain factors increase the risk of UTIs for women:
– Female anatomy: Women have a shorter urethra, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.
– Sexual activity: Sexually active women are more prone to UTIs, especially with a new partner.
– Menopause: After menopause, decreased estrogen levels can lead to urinary tract changes that make infections more likely.
If you experience symptoms of a UTI, seek medical attention promptly. Early treatment with appropriate antibiotics can effectively manage the infection.
