UTI – CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, TREATMENT

What is urinary traction infection?

UTI or urinary tract infection is a common type of infection in your urinary system. It can occur in any part of your urinary system, including the urethra, ureters, bladder and kidneys. It can be observed in both men and women but mostly occur in women. Let’s have a closer look at causes, symptoms and treatment of UTI.

What causes a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

Urinary tract infections are caused by microorganisms — usually bacteria — that enter the urethra and bladder which causes inflammation and infection. Though a UTI most commonly happens in the urethra and bladder, bacteria can also travel up the ureters and infect your kidneys.

More than 90% of bladder infection are caused by E. coli bacteria found in the intestines.

Risk factors:

• age — older adults are at higher risk
• reduced mobility after surgery or prolonged bed rest
• kidney stones
• a previous UTI
• urinary tract obstructions or blockages, such as an enlarged prostate, kidney stones, and certain forms of cancer
• prolonged use of urinary catheters
• diabetes
• pregnancy
• abnormally developed urinary structures from birth
• a weakened immune system

What are symptoms of UTI?

Symptoms of a UTI depend on what part of the urinary tract is infected.

Symptoms of a lower tract UTI include:

• burning with urination
• increased frequency of urination without passing much urine
• increased urgency of urination
• bloody urine
• cloudy urine
• urine that looks like cola or tea
• urine that has a strong odour
• pelvic pain in women
• rectal pain in men

Symptoms of an upper tract UTI include:

• pain and tenderness in the upper back and sides
• chills
• fever
• nausea
• vomiting

What is treatment for UTI?

Treatment of UTIs depends on the cause. We perform tests to determine which organism is caused the infection. In most cases UTI is treated by medicines, the antibiotic that your causative bacteria are sensitive. Most cases can be managed with oral medicines though at times in cases of critical infections or high-grade fever one may require to originally start injections.

In some cases, viruses or fungi are the causes. Viral UTIs are treated with medications called antivirals. Often, the antiviral cidofovir is the choice to treat viral UTIs. Fungal UTIs are treated with medications called antifungals.

If you have any query regarding UTI and its treatment, contact the best urologist in Mumbai, Dr. Mangesh Patil.