Urinary Tract infection

• Persistent strong urge to urinate
• Burning sensation during urination
• Frequent urination, with small amounts of urine, passed each time
• Cloudy-looking urine
• Presence of blood in urine, indicated by red, bright pink, or cola-coloured urine
• Strong odour in urine
• Pelvic pain in women is mainly centralized in the pelvis area and around the pubic bone.

UTIs can sometimes be missed or misinterpreted in older adults as other medical conditions.

What are the causes of Urinary tract infections?

UTIs typically occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract via the urethra and increase within the bladder. While the urinary system is designed to fend off bacteria, its defences can sometimes falter, allowing bacteria to establish and cause an infection.

The most common UTIs predominantly affect women and target the bladder and urethra.

1. Bladder infection: This type of UTI is often caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli), a bacterium commonly found in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Although E. coli is a primary culprit, other bacteria may also instigate bladder infections. Sexual activity can sometimes precipitate a bladder infection, but sexual activity is not a prerequisite for developing one. Due to their anatomy, all women are susceptible to bladder infections. The proximity of the urethra to the anus facilitates the transfer of bacteria from the anus to the urethra and subsequently to the bladder.

2. Urethral infection: GI bacteria can travel from the anus to the urethra, causing this type of UTI. Additionally, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as herpes, gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and mycoplasma can lead to urethral infections. Women's urethras are located near the vagina, which increases the risk of infection transmission.

Risk factors for urinary tract infections

UTIs are prevalent among women, with many experiencing multiple episodes throughout their lives.

Specific risk factors for UTIs in women include:

1. Female anatomy: Women possess a shorter urethra than men, creating a shorter distance for bacteria to travel to reach the bladder.

2. Sexual activity: Being sexually active often correlates with a higher incidence of UTIs, especially with new sexual partners.

3. Certain types of birth control: The use of diaphragms for birth control and spermicidal agents can elevate UTI risk.

4. Menopause: After menopause, declining oestrogen levels lead to urinary tract changes that may increase susceptibility to UTIs.

Additional risk factors for UTIs include:

1. Urinary tract abnormalities: Infants born with urinary tract abnormalities may experience difficulties urinating, leading to UTIs.

2. Urinary tract blockages: Conditions such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate can obstruct urine flow, raising the risk of UTIs.

3. Suppressed immune system: Diseases like diabetes can compromise the immune system, heightening vulnerability to UTIs.

4. Catheter use: Individuals unable to urinate independently often require catheterization, which increases the risk of UTIs, particularly in hospital settings or among those with neurological conditions.

5. Recent urinary procedures: Surgical interventions or urinary tract examinations involving medical instruments can escalate the likelihood of developing UTIs.

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