Urinary Tract Infections
At a Glance: A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can occur in any region of the urinary system. The urinary system comprises the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. The majority of infections often affect the lower urinary system, which includes the bladder and the urethra. Females have a higher susceptibility to acquiring a urinary tract infection (UTI) compared to males. If an infection is confined solely to the bladder, it might cause discomfort and irritation. However, if a urinary tract infection (UTI) extends to the kidneys, it can lead to severe health complications. Urinary tract infections are commonly managed by healthcare practitioners through the administration of antibiotics. Additionally, you can implement measures to reduce the likelihood of acquiring a urinary tract infection initially.
Reviewed by Internal Psychologist and General Physician
Introduction
A urinary tract infection is a common infection that affects the urinary system. It has the potential to affect any part of your urinary system.
Bacteria, particularly E. coli, are the primary causes of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Common symptoms encompass frequent urination, dysuria, and discomfort in the sides or lower region.
The majority of urinary tract infections can be effectively treated with antibiotics.
The Urinary Tract
The urinary system is responsible for the production and storage of urine. It includes the following:
Kidney: The kidneys are small, kidney-shaped organs located posteriorly in the body, superior to the hips. The majority of individuals possess a pair of kidneys.
The kidneys extract water and metabolic waste from the bloodstream, resulting in the formation of urine. Urea and creatinine are examples of common waste substances.
The Ureters: The ureters are thin tubes that transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
Urinary Bladder: The bladder is an organ that functions as a reservoir for urine before its elimination from the body.
The Urethra: The urethra is a tube responsible for transporting urine from the bladder to the outside of the body.
Causes of Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) commonly develop when bacteria infect the urinary tract via the urethra and subsequently propagate within the bladder.
The urinary system is specifically built to prevent the entry of microorganisms. However, the defensive measures may prove ineffective.
Under such circumstances, bacteria have the potential to colonise and proliferate, leading to the development of a complete infection within the urinary system.
Common urinary tract infections primarily affect women and target the bladder and urethra.
Bladder Infection:
The most common cause of this form of urinary tract infection (UTI) is Escherichia coli (E. coli).
E. coli is a prevalent bacteria species that is typically present in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
However, on certain occasions, different microorganisms can be the underlying factor.
Engaging in sexual intercourse might potentially result in a bladder infection.
Due to their anatomical structure, all women are susceptible to bladder infections. The female urethra is located close to the anus.
The urethral aperture is close to the bladder. This facilitates the entry of bacteria from the area around the anus into the urethra and their subsequent migration to the bladder.
Urethra Infection:
This form of urinary tract infection (UTI) can occur when gastrointestinal (GI) bacteria migrate from the anus to the urethra.
Sexually transmitted diseases can also cause urethral infections. The mentioned sexually transmitted infections include herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and mycoplasma.
This occurrence can be attributed to the proximity of women's urethras to the vagina.
Risk Factors of Urinary Tract Infection
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common among females. Multiple urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common occurrence among women throughout their lives.
Women are more susceptible to urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to several risk factors, which include:
Female Anatomy:
Women possess a comparatively shorter urethra in comparison to males. Consequently, the reduced distance facilitates the bacteria's passage to the bladder.
Sexual Activity:
Engaging in sexual activity often increases the likelihood of experiencing urinary tract infections (UTIs). Engaging in sexual activity with a new partner also heightens the risk.
Specific Forms of Contraception:
The utilisation of diaphragms as a contraceptive method may elevate the likelihood of urinary tract infections (UTIs). The use of spermicidal drugs can further elevate the risk.
Menopause
It refers to the natural biological process in women where menstruation stops permanently, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55.
The urinary system undergoes alterations as a result of decreased levels of oestrogen during menopause. The alterations can heighten the susceptibility to urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Additional risk factors for urinary tract infections (UTIs) include the following:
Urinary Tract Issues:
Infants born with urinary tract abnormalities may experience difficulties in urinating. Urine can accumulate in the urethra, leading to the development of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Blockages in the Urinary Tract:
Urine might become trapped in the bladder due to the presence of kidney stones or an enlarged prostate.
Consequently, the likelihood of developing urinary tract infections (UTIs) is increased.
A Weakened Immune System:
Diabetes and other ailments can compromise the immune system, which serves as the body's safeguard against pathogens. This can elevate the susceptibility to urinary tract infections (UTIs).
A Recent Urological Intervention:
Undergoing urinary surgery or undergoing a medical examination of your urinary system with medical devices might elevate the likelihood of having a urinary tract infection (UTI).
Signs and Symptoms of a UTI
UTIs don't always show signs. When they do, these symptoms may be there:
- A strong urge to urinate
- Having a burning sensation when you urinate
- Experiencing frequent urination and producing small volumes of urine
- Cloudy urine
- Red, bright pink, or cola-coloured pee is indicative of the presence of blood in the urine.
- Pungent pee odour
- Women may experience pelvic discomfort, particularly in the central region of the pelvis and around the pubic bone
Diagnosis of UTI
If you are experiencing symptoms indicative of a urinary tract infection, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.
The medical professionals will inquire about your symptoms, evaluate your medical records, and perform a physical examination.
In addition, they can request diagnostic testing to further validate a diagnosis.
Diagnostic tests that a healthcare provider may request to identify a urinary tract infection (UTI) include:
Urinalysis:
During the examination, you will urinate into a container. The provider will forward the sample to a laboratory, where technicians will analyse it for indications of a urinary tract infection (UTI) by assessing various factors.
Urine Culture:
You will provide a urine sample, which will be analysed by lab technicians to cultivate and identify any bacteria that may be present.
Urine cultures play a crucial role in enabling your healthcare provider to identify the most suitable course of treatment.
If your illness is unresponsive to treatment, a healthcare professional may request the following tests to assess your urinary system for any potential disease or injury:
Ultrasound:
A type of medical imaging that uses high-frequency sound waves to obtain images of inside organs.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan:
A CT scan is an additional diagnostic procedure that utilises imaging technology.
It is a medical imaging technique that uses X-rays to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body, allowing for the generation of three-dimensional representations of its internal structures.
A CT scan is more accurate than a conventional X-ray.
Cystoscopy:
A cystoscopy utilises a cystoscope to visually examine the interior of your bladder by inserting it through your urethra.
A cystoscope is a slender device equipped with an optical lens and an illuminating source at its tip.
If you have recurrent UTIs, a healthcare professional may conduct diagnostic testing to investigate potential underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or an abnormal urinary system, that could be contributing to your infections.
Treatment for UTIs
It is advisable to consult a healthcare expert for effective treatment for a urinary tract infection.
If you frequently experience urinary tract infections (UTIs), a healthcare physician may advise you to take medications.
- Daily
- On alternate days
- Post-coitus
- Upon the initial manifestation of symptoms
Consult a healthcare professional regarding the best course of treatment if you have a recurring history of urinary tract infections.
Prevention of UTIs
The following measures can potentially reduce the likelihood of urinary tract infections (UTIs):
- Consume sufficient amounts of fluids, particularly water. Consuming water aids in the process of urine dilution. This results in an increased frequency of urination, which facilitates the elimination of bacteria from the urinary system before the initiation of an infection.
- Clean from front and back. Perform this action after urination and defecation. It aids in inhibiting the transmission of bacteria from the rectum to the vagina and urethra.
- Empty your bladder quickly after sexual intercourse. Additionally, consume a complete glass of water to aid in the elimination of microorganisms.
- Avoid feminine products that have the potential to irritate. Applying them to the vaginal region can irritate the urethra. The assortment of items comprises deodorant sprays, douches, and powders.
- Modify your contraceptive technique. Diaphragms, non-lubricated condoms, or condoms coated with spermicide can promote the growth of bacteria.
FAQs
What is the duration required to eliminate a urinary tract infection (UTI)?
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) often resolve within a week. However, if not addressed, urinary tract infections (UTIs) can deteriorate gradually and will require medical intervention.
Is it possible to treat a urinary tract infection (UTI) using natural remedies?
It is important to quickly treat UTIs as they have the potential to deteriorate with time. Consuming cranberry juice or water as home treatment may expedite the elimination of UTI by enhancing the activity of antibodies.
What methods are used to diagnose UTIs in adults?
Medical professionals diagnose urinary tract infections (UTIs) by collecting a sample of your urine for analysis. White blood cells, bacteria, and yeast indicate the presence of infections and the possibility of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
When do I need to worry?
If you are getting treatment for a UTI but aren't feeling better, or if you have fever, chills, and other signs of a UTI, you should call your doctor. You should call your doctor right away if you ever see blood in your urine.
Will having a UTI affect my kidneys?
If you treat the UTI quickly, it probably won't hurt your urinary tract in the long run. If you don't find and treat a UTI right away, it may damage your urinary tract including your kidneys.
What if I'm pregnant with a child?
If you are pregnant and think you might have a UTI, you should call your doctor right away. If a pregnant woman gets a UTI, she should get treated quickly and correctly or else it can put both her and her baby at risk
Conclusion
UTIs are a relatively common condition. They can involve infection of the bladder, urethra, ureters, or kidneys.
The most common cause is bacteria, but they can also be caused by viruses or fungi.
If you suspect you may have a UTI, it’s important to see your doctor for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
References
- Goebel MC, et al. The five Ds of outpatient antibiotic stewardship for urinary tract infections. Clinical Microbiology Reviews. 2021; doi:10.1128/CMR.00003-20.
- Merck Manual, Consumer Version. Overview of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) (https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/kidney-and-urinary-tract-disorders/urinary-tract-infections-utis/overview-of-urinary-tract-infections-utis).
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Definition & Facts of Bladder Infection in Adults (https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/bladder-infection-uti-in-adults/definition-facts).
- Hooton TM, et al. Acute simple cystitis in women. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search.
- Bladder infection (urinary tract infection) in adults. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/bladder-infection-uti-in-adults.
- Partin AW, et al., eds. Infections of the urinary tract. In: Campbell-Walsh-Wein Urology. 12th ed. Elsevier; 2021. https://www.clinicalkey.com.Cranberry. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. https://nccih.nih.gov/health/cranberry..
- Mayo Clinic. (2022). 'Urinary Tract Infection(UTI)'. Available athttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-tract-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20353447
- Cleveland Clinic. (2023). 'Urinary Tract Infections'. Available athttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9135-urinary-tract-infections
