Urinary tract infection

Although Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is more common in women but not very uncommon in men. UTI is caused by microbes mainly bacteria overcoming the body’s defense mechanism in the urinary track.

UTI can affect the kidneys, Bladder & the ureters that run between them. UTI is rare in adult male younger than 50 years, but the incidence increases after 50 years due to prostatitis, epididymitis, cystitis and urinary catheters. Patients most commonly present with painful urination and burning sensation. Other symptoms may need to urinate frequently, sudden urges to empty bladder, pain in central lower abdomen, blood in urine, fever with chills, nausea and vomiting. Apart from these symptoms if patients have difficulty in urination or dribbling, pain in perennial region suggestive of prostatitis.

UTI is most commonly caused by the bacterium Escherichia Coli (E.Coli) which is naturally present in the body. UTI mainly spread through urethra in ascending pattern.

Risk Factors:-

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
• Being immobile for long period
• Less fluid intake
• Recent urinary tract surgery
• Diabetes
• Uncircumcised patients
• Fecal incontinence
• Engaging in anal intercourse

UTI can be suspected on the basis of symptoms, clinical examinations and past history of UTI. It can be confirmed with urine culture and sensitivity.

Treatment:-

It is very important to drink adequate water. Urination can help to flush the bacteria from the urinary tract. Dose and duration of treatment depends on the type of antibiotics prescribed by the doctors. It is important to urinate often and stay hydrated while taking antibiotics. Drinking Cranberry juice during UTIs is not enough to treat the infection. Patients will start feeling batter within 2-3 days after taking antibiotics but important to finish all antibiotics prescribed. Stopping the antibiotics prematurely can encourage growth of bacterial resistance to common antibiotics.

Following measures should be taken care to prevent UTIs:-

• Don`t hold urine; urinate when you feel the need.
• Adequate amount of fluid intake.
• Wipe from front to back during toileting.
• Genital area should be clean and dry.