What is a urinary tract infection?

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections affecting most women worldwide. Despite being common, UTIs cause significant discomfort and complications if left untreated. In this article, we delve deeper into understanding UTIs.

Therefore, This article will delve deeper into the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of UTIs,

Since I started coaching women, I've encountered several ladies with UTI (Urinary Tract Infection), which has left me curious. Awareness and timely intervention are crucial for managing and preventing UTIs.

I've gathered some information providing a comprehensive overview to help you understand and manage or prevent UTIs.

Urinary infections are common, and almost every female will have it at least once in their lifetime. The causes can include medical conditions like diabetes or autoimmune diseases like Lupus, but the risk of affection increases as we age.

Women are more prone to getting UTIs than men. Urinary infections can also affect babies and older adults.

What is a urinary tract infection?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that affects any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.

It typically occurs when bacteria, from the skin or often from the digestive tract, enter the urinary tract through the urethra and cause the infection.

UTIs are commonly caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria but can also be caused by other pathogens, such as Klebsiella, Proteus, or Staphylococcus saprophyticus. These bacteria are mostly found in the gut microbiome.

Your body was created in a way that protects the kidneys, and therefore, most urinary infections involve the bladder.

Why women in particular?

When you can read or be told that you can prevent urinary infections by practicing good hygiene, it's not as simple as it sounds. A female body is designed with a short and straight urethra, which is also found just a few inches from the anus.

These two factors can facilitate the entrance of germs from the large colon (through feces) into the vagina and then into the bladder.

A urinary infection can significantly impact daily life, causing physical discomfort and emotional stress. Some women are more exposed to urinary infections if they:

1. Are using spermicide jelly or diaphragm for contraception as these can potentially increase the risk of UTIs in some women by irritating or disrupting the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina, altering its pH and making it more alkaline.
2. Begin a sexual relationship with a new partner. When engaging in sexual activity with a new partner, the woman is more likely to be exposed to bacteria that the body may not be accustomed to. This can include bacteria that are more likely to cause UTIs. Anxiety can lead to urine retention, which allows bacteria to multiply in the bladder, increasing the risk of infections.
3. They have a family history of repeated UTIs, particularly their mother.
4. Suffer from chronic constipation. The rectum and the urinary tract are near each other. When a woman is constipated, the rectum may become distended and press against the bladder and urethra, affecting the normal flow of urine and increasing urine retention or incomplete bladder emptying. Stagnant urine in the bladder provides an ideal environment for bacterial growth.

What else can cause uti?

• Autoimmune disease: Studies show that women with autoimmune conditions have a higher incidence of UTI compared with the general population, especially in those with Lupus and MS (multiple sclerosis).
• Immunosuppressive biologic medications: While they're great for pain control and management, these medications have side effects and can, in some cases, increase infections since they suppress the immune system.

Types of urinary infections

• Cystitis
• Urethritis
• Vaginitis
• Pyelonephritis

What causes UTI?

The development of UTIs involves various factors such as bacterial adherence to the urothelium (lining of the urinary tract), bacterial colonization and multiplication, and host immune responses.

Bacteria can attach themselves to the lining of the urinary tract in a way that can't be washed out with urine or can't be detected by your immune system. Once attached, bacteria can multiply rapidly, leading to localized infection and inflammation.

Bacteria do not normally live in the urinary tract. But when they enter the urinary tract they multiply and cause UTIs.

UTI symptoms

Symptoms of UTIs can vary depending on the site and severity of the infection but commonly include:

1. Frequent and Urgent Urination: Someone with UTI often experiences a frequent and urgent need to urinate, even when the bladder may not be full. This can disrupt daily activities and sleep patterns.
2. Pain or Burning Sensation: When urinating, one may experience a burning sensation or pain in the urethra or bladder. This discomfort can range from mild to severe and may persist throughout the day.
3. Discomfort in Lower Abdomen or Pelvic Area: UTI can cause discomfort or pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvic area. This sensation may feel like cramping or a dull ache and can interfere with normal movement and activities.
4. Cloudy or Bloody Urine: UTI can lead to changes in the appearance of urine, such as cloudiness or the presence of blood. This can be alarming and may indicate the presence of infection.
5. General Malaise: Some people with UTI may experience malaise, including fatigue, weakness, or a mild fever. These symptoms can contribute to a sense of overall discomfort and unwellness.
6. Back pain
7. Vomiting
8. Fever

However, it's important to note that UTIs don't always have symptoms.

Can UTI be cured?

Diagnosis of UTIs often involves urine analysis, where the presence of bacteria, white blood cells, and other indicators of infection can be observed.

Treatment typically involves antibiotics targeting specific bacteria causing the infection. In some cases, particularly with recurrent UTIs or more severe infections, further imaging studies or urological evaluation may be necessary to identify underlying causes or complications.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are a prevalent and often recurrent health issue that significantly impacts the quality of life if not addressed promptly. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and risk factors is essential for early detection and effective treatment.

This article is to be continued...