Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Causes, Symptoms, Treatment of Urinary tract infections

Urinary tract infections

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Urinary tract infections

Overview urinary tract infections

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common bacterial infections observed in women. Young and elderly women, and those undergoing certain procedures of the genitourinary tract are affected frequently. In case of men, older individuals are more commonly affected than young adults. In case of children, it has been estimated that about 7% of the girls and 2% of the boys suffer from UTI at least once before they reach the age of 6 years. The UTI in all cases may be asymptomatic or symptomatic and complicated or uncomplicated. The infection may affect the kidneys (wherein it is referred as pyelonephritis), urethra (urethritis) or the bladder (cystitis).^1–3

Causes of urinary tract infections

Several factors have been proposed to result in UTIs. Genetic factors, maternal history of UTI, previous UTI, holding urine for a long time, sexual intercourse, use of diaphragms and spermicides, young age at first UTI (below 15

Signs and symptoms of urinary tract infections

In most of the cases, individuals affected by UTI remain asymptomatic, while in others it may cause variable symptoms. The typical symptoms of UTIs are frequent, urgent and/or painful urination that may be associated

Diagnosis of urinary tract infections

The diagnosis is based on the signs and symptoms noted. Additional tests may be required to confirm the diagnosis in certain instances or to identify the causative microorganism. The tests that are advised include urine culture and urinalysis along with certain blood tests in some instances. Asymptomatic cases of UTI are usually detected during routine urinary investigations. Other specialized test such as ultrasound of the kidneys and X-ray studies may be advised to rule out any underlying disorders or conditions.^1,3,5,6

Treatment of urinary tract infections

Urinary tract infection that remains asymptomatic may not require any treatment, as it tends to resolve after a few days, but may require to be monitored. In certain special cases such UTI in pregnant women need to be treated

Complications of urinary tract infections

Prevention of urinary tract infections

Use of feminine hygiene products should be reduced
The genital area should be kept clean
Avoid using spermicidal creams and use other methods of contraception
Use undergarments made of cloth
Periodic changing of catheters in individuals with catheters

Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: August 10, 2011

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References

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Kucheria R, Dasgupta P, Sacks SH, Khan MS, Sheerin NS. Urinary tract infections: New insights into a common problem. Postgrad Med J. 2005; 81; 83–86.
Mehnert-Kay SA. Diagnosis and management of uncomplicated urinary tract infections. Am Fam Physician. 2005; 72(3): 451–456, 458.
Walsh PC (ed.). Campbell’s Urology. 8th edn. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders; 2002.