URINARY TRACT INFECTION, 8 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW!

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most common infection found in humans. It is mostly caused by bacteria.

In this article, we will unveil the 8 things they don’t tell you about urinary tract infections focusing on the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment. Keep reading to get a broader knowledge of how to prevent UTIs.

 

What is UTI?

According to cdc Urinary tract infection is an infection from microbes in any part of the urinary system such as the Kidneys, Ureters, Bladder, and Urethra.

Experts conclude that women have a higher risk of contracting UTI than men and this is so true.

The urinary tract can be divided into two; lower and upper tracts. The lower urinary tract consists of the bladder and the urethra. In comparison, the upper tract consists of the kidney and ureter. We have lower and upper tract urinary tract infections.

When it comes to urinary tract infections, the lower urinary tract is usually most affected by it. But the upper urinary tract is more sensitive, once the bacteria move from the infected kidney into the blood, your life becomes at risk.

Some persons overlook urinary tract infections because they don’t know the actual symptoms and some feel is not harmful. You might wonder, how do I know if I’m infected with UTI?  Here are symptoms of both lower and upper urinary tract infections you should look out for.

Urinary Tract Infection Symptoms

Lower Tract

• Bloody urine
• Cloudy urine
• Pain or burning sensation with urinating
• Increased urgency of urination
• Frequent urination
• Pressure or cramp in the lower abdomen

Upper Tract

• Fever
• Lower and back pain
• Chills
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Do you have any of these symptoms? It’s time to visit a doctor for a test.

There are many factors that can increase the risk of UTIs. Let’s have a closer look at each of them.

Risk Factors of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

1. Sex: Having sexual relations usually increases the risk of urinary tract infection. It becomes even riskier when you keep changing partners all the time.
2. Urinary Tract Blockage: Prostate enlargement, kidney stones, and certain kinds of cancers can block urine in the bladder. This can increase the risk of UTIs within a short period of time.
3. The female body: Women have a higher risk of experiencing UTI because they have a shorter urethra than men do. Studies have shown that all women have bladder infections because of their anatomy. This is because the urethral is very close to the anus, which gives it easy access for bacteria around the anus to find their way into the urethra and from the urethra to the bladder.
4. Immune System: UTI weakens the immune system; this is because the disease has caused damage to the immune system.
5. Birth Control: Using birth control such as diaphragms and spermicidal agents can increase the risk of UTIs in women.
6. Urinary Catheters: Using a catheter for a long period of time can make it easier for bacteria to spread through the bladder and this can increase the risk of UTIs.
7. Age: Urinary tract infection is mostly found in adults compared to children. It is even more common in women who have gotten to the stage of menopause. A change in their urinary tract takes place and this is as a result of a decrease in circulation of the estrogen. Such changes increase the risk of UTIs in them.

 

Natural Ways to Prevent and Treat Urinary Tract Infection

There are natural remedies to help prevent and treat UTIs;

1. Natural herbal tea: there are some herbal teas that are natural and safe, and it is suitable for treating and preventing UTIs. It boosts the natural defense mechanism of the body against pathogens. It also helps in reducing your risk of contracting viral, bacterial, and fungal infections. It reduces the severity and duration of infections such as urinary tract infections and Staphylococcus. Regular intake of greatea infection removal tea, and mejic infection removal tea will not only reduce the risk of disease but also helps to maintain the healthy functioning of your immune system.
2. Drink water regularly: drinking more water can help clear the infection in your system. When you drink water often, you get to urinate more often and this helps flush out the bacteria in your urinary tract which prevents infection from harming you.
3. Cranberries Juice: research confirms that cranberries don’t actually cure UTIs, but they help prevent certain kinds of bacteria that can cause UTIs.
4. Don’t hold back urine: holding urine for a long period of time can contribute to increasing the risk of UTI. Always try and empty your bladder as soon as you can to avoid increasing the risk of UTI and other infections.
5. Irritating products: avoid using any kind of products on your private parts such as deodorants, perfume, powder, harsh soap and etc. as this can itch the urethra.
6. Be hygienic: as a female you should be aware that your vagina is a sensitive area, always wipe from your front to the back. This helps prevent the spread of bacteria from the anus to your vagina.

Bottom line

The earlier you treat urinary tract infections, the better for you. Refusal to treat UTIs can lead to a widespread infection. Once the infection spreads to the upper tract, it becomes difficult to treat it, therefore, causing a threat to one’s life.

Urinary tract infection can cause severe harm to your bladder, urethra, and kidney.

If you notice any UTI symptoms, do not hesitate to visit a doctor. Get UTI treated today!

 

Written by Mary E. Linus