A urinary tract infection, commonly referred to as an UTI, is a bacterial infection in the urinary tract. Although urinary tract infection can occur in the kidneys, ureters, bladder or urethra, most occur in the bladder or urethra (lower tract).
Approximately 20 percent of women experience a UTI at some point in their lives.
If left untreated, UTIs can cause other serious conditions or complications including sepsis, permanent kidney damage, premature and low birth weight babies or recurrent infections.
A urinary tract infection can develop when bacteria enters the urethra and starts to multiply in the bladder.
• Sex
• Constipation
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Not urinating when you have to go (holding it)
• Dehydration
• Birth control
• Feminine products
• Kidney stones
Risk factors of urinary tract infections
Symptoms of UTIs depend on if it is located in the upper tract (kidneys or ureters) or lower tract (bladder or urethra).
A urinary tract infection can typically be diagnosed in a urine test during a visit with your doctor.
Treatment for a urinary tract infection will depend on the cause of the infection. If the infection is caused by bacteria, you will be given antibiotics. Oral antibiotics are effective for lower urinary tract infections, while IV antibiotics are required for upper urinary tract infections.
If you have recurrent urinary tract infections, you may be put on long-term, low-dose antibiotics or a single antibiotic dose after sexual intercourse if infections are related to sexual activity.
Research is being done on alternative treatments to antibiotics to alleviate the concern around antibiotic resistant bacteria. If the UTI is caused by a virus, you may be given an antiviral medication and if the UTI is caused by a fungus, you may be given an antifungal medication.
Most simple UTIs can be cleared up with antibiotics for three days in women and seven to fourteen days in men.