UTIs are common infections that need to be well managed. Drink a lot of water, maintain hygiene, and consult a urologist for medical assistance. Avoid food items that can cause irritation such as caffeine and alcohol and include cranberry products and probiotics in your diet to avoid any recurrence.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are bacterial infections that target the urinary system, which consists of the bladder, urethra, ureters, and kidneys. They can be very painful and, if not treated on time, can lead to other serious health issues. This blog will shed light on all the necessary information about UTIs, including prevention measures, treatment, and when to see a urologist.

What is a UTI?

A UTI is an infection which occurs when bacteria invade the urinary system. E. coli is the most frequent bacteria causing UTIs, and this bacterium is usually located in the digestive tract. UTIs can occur in any area of the urinary system but are most frequent in the bladder and urethra.

They are a common health concern, especially among women, but men and children can also be infected. Early management is crucial to avoid further complications such as pyelonephritis (a kidney infection), cystitis, urethritis, etc.

Types of UTIs

This infection can either affect the lower or upper tract:

• Lower Tract UTIs: Infections of the bladder and the urethra known as cystitis and urethritis, respectively.
• Upper Tract UTIs: Infections of the kidneys (pyelonephritis) and ureters.

Symptoms of UTIs

Though symptoms can greatly vary from person to person, these can be categorised as common symptoms and severe symptoms, which have been listed below:

Common Symptoms

• Painful Urination: Also known as dysuria, it results in a burning sensation while urinating.
• Frequent Urination: A person might feel there is a frequent need to urinate, but the amount of urine produced is relatively small.
• Cloudy or Bloody Urine: Urine may be cloudy or contain blood in this case.
• Pelvic Pain: The person might experience pain or a feeling of pressure in the lower part of the belly.

Severe Symptoms

• Fever and Chills: It suggests a possibility of a kidney infection.
• Back Pain: There is lower back pain or pain in the sides.
• Nausea and Vomiting: This happens during severe infections.

Underlying Health Conditions

UTIs can be associated with some major health conditions:

• Diabetes: Diabetes patients are more prone to develop UTIs and may require special attention.
• Kidney Stones: Kidney stones can also cause a higher likelihood of UTIs.

Diagnosing UTIs

A urologist can evaluate a patient’s medical history and conduct a few tests to diagnose UTI:

• Urine Sample: Examination of a urine sample is done to check for bacteria and white blood cells.
• Urine Culture: It involves culturing a urine sample to determine the type of bacteria that is responsible for the infection.

Preventing UTIs

Follow the given preventive tips to avoid UTI infection:

• It is advisable to wipe from the front to the back in order to avoid transferring bacteria to the urethral opening.
• Make sure the genital area is clean and dry.
• Drinking water assists in the removal of bacteria from the urinary system.
• Make sure you completely empty your bladder when you are urinating.
• Urinating after intercourse is also necessary as it washes out any bacteria that may have penetrated into the urethra.
• Wear cotton underwear as it is comfortable and does not retain moisture like other fabrics do.
• Do not wear tight clothes as they are likely to cause sweating and accumulation of bacteria on the skin.

Who is a Urologist?

A urologist is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the urinary system in both males and females, as well as disorders of the male reproductive organs. This includes diseases of the kidneys, bladder, urethra, ureters and male reproductive parts, including the prostate and testes. They deal with conditions such as UTIs, kidney stones, bladder problems, and prostate conditions. With extensive training in both surgical and non-surgical treatments, urologists play a crucial role in managing urinary and reproductive health.

For expert advice and treatment, consult Dr Biswajit Nanda, one of the best urologists in Bhubaneswar.

Treating UTIs

Below are some of the treatment measures that you can take if you are infected with a UTI:

• Antibiotics: The first-line management of UTIs is with antibiotics. The length of the course and the type of antibiotic that is given depends on the nature of the infection and the location of the infection.
• Over-the-counter Pain Relievers: There are some medicines that urologists may prescribe to treat pain and discomfort.
• Home Remedies: Cranberry juice contains A-type proanthocyanidins (PACs) that prevent the bacteria from sticking to the lining of the urinary tract but do not kill the bacteria.
• Hydration: Consumption of a lot of water also aids in washing bacteria from the urinary system and is beneficial to the kidneys.
• Probiotics like Yoghurt: Yoghurt and other probiotics, like those containing strains from the Lactobacilli family, are useful in maintaining the right balance of bacteria in the urinary system and the gut.

When to Consult a Urologist?

Consult a urologist if you encounter:

• Frequent Infections: Having recurrent UTI within a short span of time.
• Persistent Symptoms: Symptoms that do not improve with standard treatment.
• High Fever: A fever that persists despite taking antibiotics.
• Severe Pain: Intense pain in the lower back, sides, or abdomen.

Management of UTIs entails prevention, early identification and treatment. Knowledge of the signs and prevention can greatly decrease the chances of getting the infection. Antibiotics and painkillers are used to treat the infection and reduce the pain associated with the condition. 

Consulting with a urologist such as Dr Biswajit Nanda, one of the best urologists in Bhubaneswar, through Apollo can help in receiving professional advice and proper treatment of UTIs and their prevention in the future. Stay proactive about your urinary health and take steps to prevent and treat UTIs effectively.