How are UTIs Caused?
August 1, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are caused by bacteria entering and infecting the urinary tract. The urinary tract includes the kidneys, ureters (tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder), the bladder, and the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body).
The most common cause of UTIs is the bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is normally present in the gastrointestinal tract. When E. coli or other bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract enter the urethra and make their way up to the bladder, they can cause an infection. Here’s how it typically happens:
- Urethra Contamination: The bacteria can enter the urethra from the surrounding skin, especially if proper hygiene is not maintained. Women are more prone to UTIs because their urethra is shorter and closer to the anus, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.
- Sexual Activity: Sexual activity can introduce bacteria into the urethra, increasing the risk of UTIs, particularly in women.
- Urinary Catheters: The use of urinary catheters, which are tubes inserted into the bladder to drain urine, can introduce bacteria and cause infections if not properly managed.
- Urinary Obstructions: Any obstruction or blockage in the urinary tract can lead to stagnant urine, creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth and UTIs.
Common symptoms of UTIs include a frequent and urgent need to urinate, burning sensation during urination, cloudy or bloody urine, pelvic pain, and sometimes fever. If the infection is left untreated or spreads to the kidneys, more severe symptoms like back pain, high fever, and chills may occur.
To prevent UTIs, it’s essential to practice good hygiene, drink plenty of fluids, urinate regularly and after sexual activity, and avoid holding urine for prolonged periods. If you suspect you have a UTI or experience any of the symptoms mentioned, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. UTIs can usually be treated effectively with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional.