Understanding urine infections, including symptoms, causes, and effective treatments
Common symptoms include a burning feeling while urinating, frequent or intense urge to pee, cloudy or strange-smelling urine, and feeling tired or shaky.
Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract, often through the urethra, and multiply in the bladder. Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the most common cause.
There are different types, including cystitis (bladder infection), pyelonephritis (kidney infection), and urethritis (urethra infection).
Women are more prone to UTIs due to their shorter urethra, and other risk factors include sexual activity, pregnancy, and poor hygiene practices.
Antibiotics are commonly prescribed, with first-line treatments including nitrofurantoin, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, and fosfomycin.
Treatment typically lasts between 3-14 days, with men often requiring at least 7 days of antibiotic therapy.
Drinking plenty of water, practicing good hygiene (wiping from front to back), and urinating after sex can help prevent UTIs.
Untreated UTIs can lead to complications like sepsis, kidney damage, and increased risk of premature birth in pregnant women.
Some women may experience recurrent UTIs, and preventive measures like low-dose antibiotic therapy or alternative treatments like cranberry juice may be recommended.
If symptoms persist or worsen, it's crucial to seek medical attention to prevent long-term damage and ensure proper treatment.