Why Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) Shouldn’t Be Ignored
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For many people, it can be embarrassing discussing anything to do with toilet habits. It’s private, after all. This fear or embarrassment might even put you off seeking medical advice, despite experiencing some rather nasty and painful symptoms.
The truth is, Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are much more common than you think. In fact, it’s likely that if it burns or hurts when you go to the loo, you probably have a UTI.
Often we tend to ignore symptoms thinking the condition might get better over time, but ignoring a UTI won’t make it go away. It’ll only get worse, and you could get really sick, so reach out for help sooner rather than later. Thankfully, Urinary Tract Infections, or UTIs, can be cured relatively quickly and effectively. This article gives a quick yet comprehensive guide to UTIs, treatment options, and prevention.
- What are UTIs?
- Signs and Symptoms
- Who is Most at Risk?
- Common Causes of UTIs
- Prevention of UTIs
- When To See A Doctor for Treatment
- Complications
- For More Advice
What are UTIs?
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur when microbes, usually bacteria, enter the urinary tract and affect the urinary system.
There are three types of UTI:
- Cystitis: bladder infection
- Urethritis: urethra infection
- Pyelonephritis: kidney infection
The most common UTI is a bladder infection or cystitis. No matter what UTI you have, it’s vital that you monitor your symptoms closely because if your kidneys become infected, you could land up in the hospital.
Don’t let it get to that stage. Untreated UTIs are life-threatening, so take it seriously and get it seen to.
Signs and Symptoms
Early Signs That You May Have a UTI:
Most UTIs present with these common symptoms:
- The persistent feeling that you need to urinate
- A burning sensation while urinating
- Passing small amounts of urine at a time
- Strong smelling urine that may appear cloudy
- In more advanced cases, urine may appear red, pink, or rust-coloured, which signals that it contains traces of blood
- Pelvic pain and painful pelvic tightening immediately after urinating (in women)
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, speak to your doctor.
Different Types of UTIs
A urine infection could be located in different areas of the urinary tract. Review the common symptoms below to help you isolate what UTI you have or, better yet, consult your doctor to be sure.
1. Common Symptoms of Cystitis (bladder infection)
- Painful or a burning/stinging sensation during urination
- The constant need to urinate
- Strong smelling, dark or cloudy urine
- Lower stomach pain
- Feeling unwell, tired, and achy
- Pelvic pressure
2. Common Symptoms of Urethritis (urethra infection)
- Burning sensation while urinating
- Discharge
- Needing to urinate more frequently
- Pain during sexual intercourse
3. Common Symptoms of Pyelonephritis (kidney infection)
- Pain in the side or back
- High fever
- Chills
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Frequent painful urination
Who is Most at Risk?
UTIs in Women
Urinary Tract Infections are most common in women. Women have a shorter urethra which allows bacteria to travel more easily. Furthermore, a woman’s anus is closer to her urethra, which is another way for bacteria to spread.
- Over 50% of women will suffer from a UTI at some point, and UTIs are one of the most common bacterial infections.
- UTIs also have a genetic element, so if you have a mother with a history of suffering from these types of infections, it’s likely you’ll be more susceptible to contracting them.
- Pregnant women, and women going through menopause are also at risk due to hormonal changes.
UTIs in Men
Men can suffer from UTIs, too, although they’re less common. One in ten men will experience a UTI at some point. You’re more at risk if you have a history of kidney stones or an enlarged prostate.
UTIs in Sexually Active people
As a sexually active person, your risk of developing a urinary tract infection increases if:
- you’re more sexually active
- you have a new sexual partner
- you’re having sex for the first time
- you’re coming out of a lengthy abstinence.
UTIs in the Elderly and Children
Many people think that UTIs only affect a certain age group, but they affect all age groups. For example, many elderly are affected because of catheter use. Parents should also be aware that, on average, about 3 out of 100 children are affected by UTIs.
UTIs are typically localised to the bladder. While they can be painful and uncomfortable, the good news is they’re easily treated. But do remember to monitor your symptoms to ensure the infection doesn’t spread to your kidneys.
Common Causes of UTIs
If you’re a man, the most common cause is an infection from STDs such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea. However, prostate problems and diabetes can also increase the risk of getting a UTI.
If you’re a woman, many of the reasons for contracting a UTI stem from the length of the urethra and its proximity to the anus. So, if you’re a woman reading this, here’s some important information about UTI avoidance:
- Wipe back to front instead of front to back when going to the toilet. Wiping incorrectly can cause bacteria to go from the anus to the urethra.
- Cystitis is often called “honeymoon cystitis” – it can result from sex, especially after a long abstinence or after the first time.
- Genetics can play a role.
- Diabetics have an increased risk because of their weakened immune systems.
Prevention of UTIs
They always say that “prevention is better than cure.” While it’s not always possible to prevent a UTI, here are some easy tips to avoid them.
- Drink lots of water. Water dilutes urine and can help to flush out a potential infection from the urinary tract.
- Cranberry juice and cranberry pills are often recommended.
- Canephron is an effective herbal remedy for low-grade symptoms and for preventing UTIs.
- Good toilet habits include going to the toilet as soon as possible after having sexual intercourse. Women should also always wipe from front to back.
Women should avoid irritating feminine hygiene products such as sprays, douches, powders, and preparations. Pay careful attention to hygiene around menstrual cups, diaphragms, condoms, etc. And avoid synthetic underwear. Instead, opt for breathable cotton fabrics.
When To See A Doctor for Treatment
As soon as you think you have a UTI, book a doctor’s appointment. Wait, and your UTI could spread to your kidneys, which you now know is dangerous and even life-threatening.
These are the most critical symptoms to be on the lookout for:
- Severe lower back pain
- Vomiting and/or nausea
- Fever
When you visit a doctor with a suspected UTI, here’s what to expect.
A doctor will begin diagnosing you with a consultation and asking questions about your symptoms. Then they’ll test your urine. You’ll be asked to urinate into a cup, and they’ll test the sample with a special test strip. In some cases, they may collect a culture sample to identify which bacteria is causing the problem.
Patients will usually be prescribed antibiotics.
If you’re prescribed antibiotics, remember to drink plenty of fluids and complete the course. Also, take probiotics to prevent thrush.
Are you on birth control pills? Consult your GP if you’re prescribed antibiotics. Although antibiotics don’t generally impact the efficacy of this contraceptive, it’s always wise to discuss this with a GP or pharmacist.
If you suffer from frequent or recurrent UTIs, let your GP know so they can perform further tests.
Complications
If you treat a UTI promptly, there’s unlikely to be any complications. However, ignoring it can lead to problems.
Here are some things you should be on the lookout for:
- Repeat infections
- Kidney damage
- If you contract a UTI during pregnancy, there’s a risk of delivering a low birth weight or premature baby
- Sepsis
There are cases where cystitis or urethritis can lead to pyelonephritis or a kidney infection. Don’t mess around with a kidney infection. Get it assessed immediately.
For More Advice
If you’re concerned that you may have a urinary tract infection or you’re suffering from frequent UTIs, consult your doctor or a physician.
Urinary Tract Infections can have serious consequences. If you’ve tried home remedies and been on antibiotics, but your symptoms persist or worsen, don’t let the UTI “run its course.”
To book an appointment, contact Welwitschia by calling +264 64 218 911 or emailing hello@welwitschiahospital.com, and we’ll put you in touch with a specialist physician or physio. Alternatively, find a doctor here.
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