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Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) – Causes And Symptoms
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common type of infection that can occur anywhere in the urinary tract, from the bladder to the kidneys.
UTIs are especially common in women and can be quite uncomfortable and sometimes painful.
In most cases, UTIs can be treated with antibiotics, but it’s important to know what the main causes of UTIs are so you can take steps to prevent them.
What Are The Main Causes Of UTI?
Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are fairly common. They occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply.
Sexual intercourse is a common cause of UTIs because it can introduce new bacteria into the urinary system.
UTI (Urinary tract infections) can happen to anyone at any age, women are more sensitive to UTIs than men because of their shorter urethras. Some people are also more prone to UTIs because of structural abnormalities in the urinary tract or a weakened immune system.
Other potential causes include holding in urine for too long and using certain types of birth control.
There are several things that can increase your chances of getting a UTI, including sexual intercourse, pregnancy, diabetes, and using a diaphragm for birth control.
Fortunately, there are several things that can be done to reduce the risk of developing a UTI.
These include urinating after sex, drinking plenty of fluids, and emptying the bladder completely when urinating. If you do develop a UTI, it can usually be treated with antibiotics.
What Are The Symptoms Of UTI (Urinary Tract Infections)
Urinary tract infections can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on where the infection is located.
The most common symptom is a burning sensation when urinating. This is caused by inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body.
Other symptoms may include :
- A strong urge to urinate even when there is little or no urine in the bladder
- Pain or pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvis
- Cloudy or bloody urine
- Foul-smelling urine
- Pelvic pain in women
- Rectal pain in men
- Fever and chills
- Nausea and vomiting
If the infection spreads to the kidneys, it can cause more severe symptoms, such as
- Fever
- Back pain
- Side pain
- Shaking and chills
- Nausea and vomiting
Urinary tract infections are usually treated with antibiotics. In some cases, home remedies may help relieve symptoms.
Drink plenty of fluids, urinate frequently, and avoid harsh soaps or bubble baths. Cranberry juice or supplements may also help prevent UTIs.
If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar under control. See your doctor if your symptoms don’t improve within a few days.
FAQs
- What are the common symptoms of a UTI?
Symptoms include a burning sensation during urination, frequent urination, cloudy urine, and pelvic pain. - What causes urinary tract infections?
UTIs are commonly caused by bacteria like E. coli entering the urinary tract. - Who is at a higher risk of developing UTIs?
Women, individuals with diabetes, and those with a history of UTIs are at higher risk. - Can UTIs be prevented?
Drinking plenty of water, maintaining good hygiene, and urinating after sexual activity can help prevent UTIs. - When should I see a doctor for a UTI?
Seek medical attention if symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by fever or back pain.
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