Urinary tract infections (UTI) are infections of any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, uterus, bladder, and urethra. Most infections are related to the lower urinary tract-the bladder and urethra. Women have a higher risk of developing a UTI than men. Infections that are confined to the bladder can be painful and annoying. However, if the UTI spreads to the kidneys, it can have serious consequences. Doctors usually treat urinary tract infections with antibiotics. However, measures can be taken to reduce the likelihood of getting infected with a UTI in the first place. Urinary tract infections do not always cause signs and symptoms, but if they occur, they may include: Depending on which part of the urinary tract is infected, more specific signs and symptoms may appear for each type of UTI. Part of the urinary tract affected Signs and symptoms Kidneys (acute pyelonephritis) · Upper back and side (flank) pain · High fever · Shaking and chills · Nausea · Vomiting Bladder (cystitis) · Pelvic pressure · Lower abdomen discomfort · Frequent, painful urination · Blood in urine Urethra (urethritis) · Burning with urination · Discharge Urinary tract infections usually occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder. The urinary system is designed to prevent such microscopic intruders, but these defenses sometimes fail. When it happens, bacteria can settle and grow into a full-fledged infection in the urinary tract. The most common UTI occurs mainly in women and affects the bladder and urethra. Urinary tract infections are common in women, and many women experience multiple infections during their lifetime. The risk factors specific to women with UTI are: Other risk factors for UTIs include: Abnormalities of the urinary tract. Babies born with urinary tract abnormalities that do not allow urine to leave the body normally or cause urine to return to the urethra are at increased risk of UTI. Obstruction of the urinary tract. Kidney stones or enlarged prostate can trap urine in the bladder and increase the risk of UTI. Suppressed immune system. Diabetes and other diseases that impair the immune system—the body's defenses against bacteria—can increase the risk of UTIs. Use of catheters. People who are unable to urinate on their own and use a tube (catheter) to urinate are at higher risk of a UTI. This may include people who are hospitalized, who have neurological problems that make it difficult to control their ability to urinate, or who are paralyzed. Recent urine procedures. An examination of your urinary tract including urine surgery or medical equipment can both increase your risk of developing a urinary tract infection. If treated quickly and properly, the lower urinary tract infection rarely causes complications. But if left untreated, urinary tract infections can have serious consequences. To reduce the risk of urinary tract infections, you can take the following steps: Urinary Tract Infection Treatment Near Me
Symptoms
UTI can be overlooked in older people or mistaken for other conditions.
Types of urinary tract infection
Causes
Risk factors
Complications
Complications of UTI include:
Prevention
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