A urinary tract infection, simply referred to as UTI, can affect any part of the urinary system. The urinary system encompasses the kidneys, bladder, urethra and ureters. A UTI infection majorly involves the lower urinary tract-bladder and urethra.
Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
A UTI infection does not always cause symptoms. However, when it does, the signs of a urinary tract infection may include:
A strong urge to urinate despite an empty bladder
A burning feeling while urinating
Frequent urination and passing small amounts of urine
Urine that appears cloudy
Urine that appears red due to the presence of blood
Strong-smelling urine
Pelvic pain in females
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Types
Different types of UTI can result in symptoms that are different from one other but specific for each type. The symptoms of UTI also vary based on the part of the urinary tract affected.
Part of Urinary Tract Affected | Symptoms |
Kidneys | Back pain
High fever and chills
Nausea and vomiting |
Bladder | Pelvic pressure/pain
Discomfort in the lower area of the stomach
Frequent and painful urination
Blood in urine |
Urethra | Burning sensation during urination
Discharge |
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Causes
In general, UTIs occur when bacteria enters the urinary tract through the urethra and spreads in the bladder. The urinary system is designed to fight bacteria, however, sometimes the defence fails. When this happens, the bacteria grows, causing an infection in the urinary tract. The most common UTI infections occur in women and affect the bladder and urethra.
Note: All females are at a risk of bladder infection because of their anatomy.
Infection of the urethra: This type of UTI occurs when the bacteria present in the gastrointestinal tract spreads from the anus to the urethra. Infection in the urethra can also be caused by sexually transmitted infections such as, chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and herpes.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Risk Factors
A UTI infection is common in women. In fact, several women experience more than one UTI infection during their lifetime. UTI risk factors that are specific to women may include:
Female anatomy: Women have a shorter urethra as compared to men. Due to this, there is less distance for the bacteria to travel and reach the bladder.
Sexual activity: Being sexually active increases the chances of UTI.
Certain birth control: Diaphragms and spermicidal agents may also lead to a greater risk of UTIs.
Menopause: After menopause, a decline in the estrogen causes changes in the urinary tract, increasing the risk of UTIs.
Other UTI risk factors may include:
Urinary tract problems present since birth
Blockage in the urinary tract
A weakened or suppressed immune system
Use of a catheter to urinate
A recent urinary surgery or examination
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Diagnosis
A doctor may determine if you have a urinary tract infection by:
Asking about symptoms
Conducting a physical examination
Ordering urine tests such as:
Urinalysis: During this test, a urine sample will be sent to a laboratory to examine signs of a UTI using variables like white blood cells, leukocyte esterase, and nitrites.
Urine culture: For a urine culture, a lab technician will test the urine sample for bacterial growth. Urine cultures are important because they help determine the most appropriate UTI treatment.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Treatment
The treatment for UTI includes a prescription for a short course of antibiotics. However, it is important to note that doctors may suggest waiting for 48 hours before starting the medication in case the symptoms go away on their own. A urologist may also offer self-care advice such as drinking more fluids and taking prebiotics. Also, over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol may be prescribed to help with pain and burning sensation while urinating.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Complications
Urinary tract infections rarely lead to any complications, if treated promptly. However, if left untreated, UTIs can cause serious health issues such as:
Repetitive infections (which may lead to narrowed urethra in men)
Permanent kidney damage
Delivering a premature or low birth weight infant, if UTI happens during pregnancy
Sepsis
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Prevention
The following steps can help lower the risk of UTIs or prevent it:
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water helps dilute the urine. This leads to frequent urination- allowing bacteria to be flushed from the urinary tract before an infection begins.
Incorporating cranberry extract supplements or vitamin pills in the diet can help decrease the chances of getting a UTI.
Change your birth control methods: Condoms treated with spermicide or diaphragms can contribute to bacterial growth.
Article By Dr. Nidhi Rajotia (Goel)
Sr. Consultant - Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Artemis Hospitals
