What You Need to Know about Urinary Tract Infection
Any bacterial infection in the kidneys, bladder or urethra is known as urinary tract infection (UTI). Women are more prone to UTI than men because a woman’s urethra is shorter. Accordingly, germs can get to the woman’s bladder much faster compared to men’s. Also, women’s urethras are situated near their rectum. This adds to women’s vulnerability to UTI since bacteria can easily reach up their urethra, given the shorter distance. Sexual intercourse is one of the common causes of UTI in women because the germs are thrust up the urethra.
Possible symptoms of UTI are the following:
- A burning sensation every time a person urinates.
- The urge to urinate more often but not being able to do so.
- Dark, smelly, cloudy or, in worst circumstances, bloody urine.
- Fever, nausea and low back pain may indicate a more serious infection in the kidneys.
Treatment of UTI begins with a series of tests. The doctor will obtain urine samples to see if bacteria are present therein. If bacteria are detected, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics. Generally, UTI symptoms go away after two days of medication.
Here are simple tips on how to avoid getting UTI.
- Always drink plenty of fluids; ideally, you should drink at least six to eight glasses of water every day. Liquids help flush the toxins out.
- Don’t hold your urine. Always answer the call of nature.
- Urinate after sexual intercourse to flush away the bacteria.
