Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

1. What is UTI?

A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is an infection that affects any part of the urinary system — kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract — the bladder and the urethra.

2. Causes

• Bacterial infection: The most common cause is bacteria, mainly Escherichia coli (E. coli) from the digestive tract.

• Other bacteria or fungi may also cause infections.

• Factors increasing risk: poor hygiene, sexual activity, catheter use, urinary retention, diabetes, or anatomical abnormalities.

3. Types of UTI

• Cystitis (Bladder infection): Infection of the bladder; most common type.

• Urethritis: Infection of the urethra.

• Pyelonephritis: Infection of the kidneys, more serious and may cause systemic symptoms.

4. Symptoms

• Burning sensation during urination (dysuria)

• Frequent urge to urinate, often with little urine output

• Cloudy, dark, bloody, or strange-smelling urine

• Pelvic pain (in women), lower abdominal pain

• Fever, chills, nausea, vomiting (especially with kidney infection)

• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying

5. Diagnosis

• Urinalysis (checking urine for bacteria, blood, white blood cells)

• Urine culture to identify the specific bacteria and antibiotic sensitivity

• Imaging (if complicated or recurrent infections) — ultrasound or CT scan

6. Treatment

• Antibiotics: Main treatment. The type depends on the bacteria found.

• Drinking plenty of water to flush bacteria

• Pain relievers like phenazopyridine for urinary discomfort

• For recurrent infections: preventive antibiotics or addressing underlying causes

7. Home Remedies & Prevention

• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water

• Urinate frequently; don't hold urine for long periods

• Wipe from front to back (for women) after using the toilet

• Urinate shortly after sexual intercourse

• Avoid irritating feminine products, like douches or powders

• Wear breathable cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes

• Cranberry juice (may help prevent bacteria from sticking, but evidence is mixed)

8. When to See a Doctor

• Symptoms last more than 2 days or worsen

• High fever, chills, nausea, vomiting (possible kidney infection)

• Blood in urine or severe pain

• Recurrent UTIs

• Pregnant women with symptoms should seek prompt care