18th of April, 2017
UTI Infections: Causes and Prevention
A Urinary Tract infection (UTI) is the infection of the urinary system. Although both genders can be affected, the risk of getting a UTI is higher in women than men because women have a shorter urethra. A shorter urethra means the bacteria have less distance to travel and infect the urinary system.
The symptoms of a UTI include but are not limited to: a constant need to urinate, dark or cloudy urine, burning during urination, painful pelvic cramps in women, nausea, fever.The most common type of bacteria that causes UTI is E. coli. UTIs are all different depending on where E. coli takes up residence. E. Coli can be found in any part of the urinary system: the urethra, the bladder (where urine is stored), and kidneys. The symptoms will vary depending on where the bacteria is.
Most UTIs are treated with antibiotics but prevention is the best thing to practice to avoid the pain and discomfort.Here are some ways to prevents UTI infections:
Urinate as frequently as you need. Do NOT "hold it" and wait for the last possible minute to urinate. Your bladder needs to be emptied soon after you feel the need to urinate.
During defecation, wipe from front to back so not to bring in germs from the anus into the urethra.
Urinate immediately after sex to flush out any bacteria that may be stored by the urethra.
Stay constantly hydrated with water (soda and sugary drinks DO NOT count and should be avoided).
Keep your genital area clean and avoid scented products as they can increase genital irritation.