What are Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)?
Urinary tract infections are infections anywhere in the urinary tract, caused by microbes. The microbes can be bacteria, fungus or virus. UTIs are very common among humans. They usually occur in bladder and urethra.
What causes Urinary Tract Infections?
Anything that obstructs bladder emptying or irritates it causes UTI. In women, the condition can occur when bacteria like E.Coli from anus reaches vagina.
Risk factors of the condition include kidney infections, kidney stones, spinal cord injury that affects bladder muscles, postmenopausal condition, AIDS, diabetes, pregnancy, use of a diaphragm for birth control, and enlarged prostate.
What are the symptoms of Urinary Tract Infections?
The symptoms of UTIs are:
- Inflammation or swelling of bladder and urethra
- Painful urination
- Sudden urge to urinate
- Need to urinate frequently
- Lower back pain
- Blood in urine
- Smelling urine
- Mild fever
How are Urinary Tract Infections diagnosed?
A few lab tests can help diagnose UTIs. The tests include:
Ultrasound
Images produced by the ultrasound test help see the urinary tract organs and identify abnormalities.
Intravenous Pyelogram
A dye is injected into the body to get X-ray images of the abdomen.
Cystoscopy
A cystoscope is passed into the urethra to see inside and identify the problem.
CT Scan
The test provides detailed images of the urinary system
What are the treatments for Urinary Tract Infections?
Urinary tract infections are treated with high doses of antibiotics. Along with antibiotics, the doctor may recommend medication to manage symptoms and treat the underlying cause.
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