Symptoms of UTI

UTI or urinary tract infection can occur in any part of the urinary system. The urinary system includes the ureters and kidneys in the upper region and the bladder and the urethra in the lower region. While some UTI symptoms may not be easily identified, look out for symptoms that include cloudy urine, blood in the urine, constant need to urinate, passing small amounts of urine and inflammation of the urethra or burning sensation during and after urination.

Male UTI symptoms can include pain in the rectal region while UTI symptoms in women can include pain and burning sensation in the pelvic region. Other UTI symptoms include a discoloration or strong odor in the urine.

The most common cause of UTI in women is STD (sexually transmitted disease).

STD symptoms in women can occur as infections in the gastrointestinal tract such as cystitis. Sometimes the infection causing bacteria spreads from the gastrointestinal region to the urethra. In such cases, it can cause infections like herpes, gonorrhea, Chlamydia and so on. Women are more susceptible to STDs since the distance between their urethra and bladder is shorter.

While sexual intercourse may be the most likely culprit of an STD or UTI, UTI symptoms can occur due to various other reasons.

UTI symptoms in women may occur due to the use of vaginal birth control methods such as diaphragms or other vaginal contraceptives.

Menopausal women may also suffer from UTI symptoms as the sudden drop in estrogen during this period causes numerous changes in the urinary tract making it susceptible to infections.

UTI symptoms in men and women can also arise due to congenital reasons. Any at-birth or growth abnormalities in the urinary system, which cause the urine to backtrack into the bladder from the urethra, can also cause UTI infections.

Any medical conditions leading to a failed or suppressed immune system can also cause urinary tract infections. Individuals suffering from diabetes, kidney stone or enlarged prostrate are also at a risk of UTI.

Aging individuals and individuals who have to use a catheter to urinate due to hospitalization, paralysis or physical handicaps may also be at heightened risk to develop UTI.

Treatment of UTI

Left untreated, many UTI symptoms can lead to urethra, bladder or kidney infections, which may be dangerous. It is best to seek medical advice if you notice any UTI symptoms. Most UTI infections can be treated with antibacterial medicines or topical treatments under the advice of your doctor.

In certain cases, you may need to turn in your urine sample at the lab. The urine sample is analyzed for any signs of pus, red corpuscles and bacteria. You may have to hand over your urine sample to a lab for a culture test that can determine the kind of bacteria present in your urine.

To identify any abnormalities in your urinary tract, your doctor may advice a CT scan or a procedure called cystoscopy. A cystoscope is a thin, tube-like medical instrument inserted within the urethra and passed through to the bladder. The procedure can let your doctor see closely inside these organs to determine any problems.

Depending on UTI symptoms that prove recurrent or periodic, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic regime for longer duration. Medications differ for UTI and STD related infections. Consult your doctor and do not take generic UTI treatment without diagnosis.

Drink plenty of fluids to flush out the bacteria but avoid any caffeinated beverages, which may cause further urination or frequent need to pass urine. Most UTI symptoms should clear out with a proper course of medication.