About Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Urinary Tract Infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a very common type of infection of the urinary system. A UTI can involve any part of the urinary system. Most UTIs only involve the urethra and bladder, in the lower tract. But UTIs can involve the ureters and kidneys, in the upper tract. Although upper tract UTIs are less common than lower tract UTIs, they are typically more severe.

UTIs are common, particularly with increasing age. Women are more likely to get a UTI than men. One in three women experiences at least one episode of urinary tract infection during their lifetime. In women, the urethra is short and straight, making it easier for germs to travel into the bladder. For some women, UTIs relate to changes in their hormonal levels.

A urinary tract infection is caused by micro-organisms, usually a bacteria called Escherichia coli (E. coli). Bacteria do not normally live in the urinary tract. When bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply, they can cause a UTI.

A study conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Nepal shows that the prevalence of urinary tract infections was found at 24.23%. Escherichia Coli was a predominant etiological agent followed by Staphylococcus aureus. The majority of the infection was found between the age group 21-40, with females mostly infected (Singh et al., 2020).

Here are the risk factors for developing UTIs:

  • Advanced age (as older individuals are more susceptible to UTIs)
  • Decreased mobility after surgery or prolonged periods of bed rest
  • A history of previous UTIs
  • Medical conditions that cause urinary tract obstruction, like kidney stones or enlarged prostate
  • Prolonged use of urinary catheters, which may facilitate bacterial entry into the bladder
  • Pregnancy
  • Urinary structures that are abnormally developed from birth
  • A weakened immune system.

 

Here are the common symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI):

  • Discomfort or pain in the side (flank), abdomen, or pelvic area.
  • Pressure in the lower pelvis.
  • Frequent need to urinate, an urgency to urinate, and incontinence (urine leakage).
  • Painful urination.
  • Blood in the urine.
  • Cloudy urine and strong or foul-smelling urine.
  • Fever.
  • Chills.
  • Lower back pain.
  • Nausea or vomiting

Prevention of UTIs

Drink plenty of water and other fluids which help to flush the urinary tract.

Don’t hold urine for too long periods of time.

Wipe yourself from front to back (urethra to anus) after going to the toilet.

Avoid using spermicide-containing products, particularly with a diaphragm contraceptive device.

Treat vaginal infections like thrush or trichomonas as soon as possible.

Empty your bladder after sexual intercourse.

Minimize douching, sprays, or powders in the genital area.

 

Rojina Chapagain

Registered Nurse