An infection of your bladder causes UTIs. Your body’s drainage system, which helps remove excess water and wastes from the body, comprises two kidneys: two ureters, a bladder and a urethra. UTIs can occur in any part, but the most common is in the lower portion of your urinary tract. This includes both the bladder and the urine.
UTIs can be a serious condition. UTIs are the most common infection in individuals, especially in women. Most women will experience at most one UTI during their lifetime.
Here are the symptoms of an early UTI. There is also information about UTI treatment options and prevention.
Urinary Tract An infection: Causes
A urinary tract injury is when bacteria enter your urinary stream through the kidneys. The kidneys are responsible for transporting urine from your bladder to the outside. Once it is there, bacteria can travel up the urinary tract and multiply, leading to an inflammatory response that causes symptoms similar to a UTI.
Treatment
After interviewing you and testing your urine for signs, a doctor can usually diagnose a UTI. Treatment for urinary tract problems is easy. Symptoms can often be resolved in as little as a few days. But you should still follow all the instructions even if your symptoms improve.
A urologist may prescribe medication to relieve the pain and prevent further infection. It’s also important that fluids be drunk regularly to flush out the infection-causing organisms. Heating pads can be used to soothe the pain. If you have more than 3 UTIs per calendar year, your doctor may recommend a treatment plan to treat recurring UTIs.
Prevention Tips
These steps can help you reduce the risk of getting a UTI.
- Try cranberry extract. This isn’t just an old wives tale. The tannin in cranberries is what prevents E.coli bacteria (from adhering to your bladder wall and causing infection) from occurring.
- Wipe from the front to the end. This will help prevent bacteria from spreading into the urethra.
- Do not urinate after sexual activity. This is because UTIs can be caused by many factors, including the fact that you may have been having an affair.
- You should avoid potentially irritating feminine items: Urinary irritations such as sprays, powders, or douches can cause a bacterial infection and increase your chances of developing a UTI.
- Alter your birth control method. Diaphragms can encourage bacteria growth. Spermicidal or unlubricated condoms can irritate your urogenital tract.
- Keep the genital area dry – Wear cotton underwear with loose-fitting clothing.
- You should not retain urine for long periods. Your bladder is more susceptible to bacteria sitting and multiplying in it.
When to Go To a Professional?
Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms of a UTI are present. Not only will it prolong your discomfort, but it may also lead to more serious complications. UTIs are often easily treated and will not cause any permanent damage to your urinary tract if detected early. UTIs that are not treated promptly can affect your bladder and kidneys.
Make an appointment with LMA today to relieve a painful UTI. A simple blood test or examination can save you much trouble. In no time, you’ll be on your road to recovery thanks to a thorough diagnosis and treatment program.
