A urinary tract infection (UTI) happens when any part of your urinary system, like the ureters, kidneys, urethra, or bladder, gets infected. Most infections occur in the lower urinary tract, including the urethra and bladder. Women are more likely to get a UTI than men. While a bladder infection can be annoying and painful, it can lead to serious issues if it spreads to your kidneys.
Doctors usually treat UTIs with antibiotics. For infections caused by bacteria such as Escherichia coli, they often conduct an antibiotic sensitivity test to decide the most effective antibiotic based on susceptibility patterns.
According to WebMD, a UTI can be especially concerning during pregnancy, so it’s crucial to seek medical help immediately if you notice symptoms.
UTIs typically occur when bacteria enter the urinary system through the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder. Despite the urinary system’s design to fend off microscopic invaders, this defense can sometimes fail. Common causes of UTIs include:
If left untreated, a UTI can lead to severe issues such as:
– Serious kidney damage from acute or chronic kidney infection (pyelonephritis)
– Complications in pregnant women, like low birth weight or premature labor
– Urethral narrowing in men due to recurring urethritis, often linked with gonococcal urethritis
– Sepsis, a life-threatening response to infection, especially if the bacteria reach the kidneys
To diagnose a UTI, your doctor might:
– Request a urine test to check for white blood cells, red blood cells, or bacteria
– Grow urinary tract bacteria in a lab by following up the urine test with a urine culture
– Perform imaging tests like an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI if you have frequent infections that might be caused by abnormalities in your urinary tract
– Conduct a cystoscopy, which involves using a long, thin tube with a lens (cystoscope) to look inside your urethra and bladder, particularly if you have recurring UTIs
Some risk factors for UTIs in women include:
– Female anatomy: Women have a shorter urethra than men, which allows bacteria to reach the bladder more easily.
– Sexual activity: Sexually active women are more likely to get UTIs, and the risk increases with a new partner.
– Menopause: The decrease in estrogen levels after menopause can cause changes in the urinary tract, making infections more likely.
If you notice UTI symptoms, seek medical help right away. Prompt treatment and the right antibiotics can effectively manage the infection.