Common signs and symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection include:
A UTI can be easily mistaken for other conditions in older adults.
UTIs generally occur when bacteria enters the urinary tract, multiply, and grow into a full-blown infection in the urinary tract. The common factors that increase the risk of UTIs are:
It must be noted that Urinary Tract Infections are more common in women than in men. Causes of UTI, specific to women, are:
UTIs can be diagnosed with the help of Urine Sample Analysis, CT Scan, MRI, and Cystoscopy, depending on the specifics of the case.
Cystoscopy is usually performed in cases with recurrent UTI. In this procedure, a long and thin tube is inserted through the urethra to examine the insides of your bladder and urethra.
The line of treatment for a UTI depends on the severity and frequency of the infection. Usually, antibiotics are prescribed by the doctor for 1-3 days. In some cases, doctor may also prescribe an analgesic that relieves pain or burning while urinating. This treatment approach usually works for a simple non-recurring Urinary Tract Infection.
However, when the UTI is frequent, the doctor may recommend a course of antibiotics or vaginal estrogen therapy, depending on the case. Additionally, the doctor may ask you to keep yourself well hydrated and ask you to follow some home remedies.
When it comes to severe cases of Urinary Tract Infection, the doctor may have take a more serious and directed treatment approach.
If treated promptly, lower UTIs rarely ever lead to complications. But if left untreated, it can have serious consequences which may include:
The most common cause of a UTI is E.coli bacteria. Others include Chlamydia, Mycoplasma, Gonorrhoea, as well as the herpes virus.
Women are more prone to UTIs because their urethra is shorter, allowing easier access to bacteria. Also, a woman's urethral opening is close to the anus and vagina both of which are sources of bacteria.
UTIs can be prevented by many ways including staying well-hydrated, including enough Vitamin C in your diet and voiding urine at regular intervals.
Drinking less water is not a cause of UTI. However, if you are already suffering from urinary tract infection, it can further complicate your condition.