What is Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

What is Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) are common infections that happen when bacteria, often from the skin or rectum, enter the urethra and infect the urinary tract.
 

Types of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

  1. Bladder infection – commonly known as cystitis
  2. Kidney infection – known as pyelonephritis

Signs and symptoms include

  1. Pain and burning while urinating (dysuria)
  2. Frequent urination
  3. Feeling the need to urinate despite having an empty bladder
  4. Bloody urine or pee that looks cloudy
  5. Pressure or cramping in the groin or lower abdomen
  6. Fever
  7. Chills
  8. Lower back pain or pain in the side of your back
  9. Nausea and vomiting

Risk factors include being female, as female has shorter urethra and closer to the rectum, thus, makes it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract.

 

Other risk factors include a previous UTI, recent sexual activity, changes in the bacteria that live inside the vagina or vaginal flora. For example, menopause or the use of spermicides can cause these bacterial changes, pregnancy, underlying condition such as enlarged prostate or poor hygiene, for example, in children who are potty-training.

There are some things that you can try to help prevent a urinary tract infection (UTI) from happening or from returning:

Do’s

Don’ts
  • Wipe from front to back when you go to toilet
  • Keep the genital area clean and dry
  • Drink plenty of fluids, particularly water – so that you regularly pee during the day and do not feel thirsty
  • Wash the skin around the vagina with water before and after sex
  • Pee as soon as possible after sex
  • Promptly change nappies or incontinence pads if they’re soiled
  • Do not use scented soap
  • Do not hold your pee in if you feel the urge to go
  • Do not rush when going for a pee – try to fully empty your bladder
  • Do not wear tight synthetic underwear, such as nylon
  • Do not drink lots of alcoholic drinks, as they may irritate your bladder
  • Do not have lots of sugary food or drinks, as they may encourage bacteria to grow

 

Other ways to prevent UTIs coming back is by using cranberry products, available as supplement (capsules or tablets) or juices everyday. However, consider talking to your doctor before consuming any of these during pregnancy or taking blood thinning medication.

References

  1. Centre for Disease Control (CDC). Urinary Tract Infection Basics. https://www.cdc.gov/uti/about/index.html#:~:text=UTIs%20are%20common%20infections%20that,up%20the%20urethra%20a
  2. National Health Service (NHS). Urinary Tract Infection (UTIs). https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-tract-infections-utis/