Category : UTI
The Urinary system is a complex filtering system consisting of kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, that allows blood to be filtered in kidneys & be converted into urine. The urine is then passed to the urinary bladder from each kidney through the ureter. Once the bladder is full then the urine is passed outside from the bladder through the urethra.
Urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection of any part of the urinary system. The most common cause of UTI is an organism called E.Coli. UTI tends to be more common in women than men because of their short length of the urethra and its close proximity to the anus. UTI is also common in people with Diabetes Mellitus.
The most common symptoms of UTI
- Burning sensation while passing urine
- Increase frequency of micturition
- Feeling of urgency to pass urine
- High grade fever associated with chills, fatigue, and tiredness
- Foul-smelling urine
- Cloudy urine
Diagnosis of UTI
UTI is diagnosed based on the patient’s symptoms and urine examination. Some of the methods include,
- Urine examination which will reveal pus cells and any traces of red blood cells.
- Urine culture and sensitivity test
- Ultrasound abdomen and pelvis
Complications associated with UTI
UTI may lead to complications if not treated in time.
- Recurrent infections
- Permanent Kidney Damage
- Increased risk in pregnant women of delivering low birth or premature baby
How to prevent UTI?
Prevention is always better than cure. Follow the below methods to prevent UTI and stay healthy
- Drink plenty of liquid, especially water
- Drink cranberry juice
- Wipe perineal region from front to back
- Do not hold back urine
- Empty your bladder soon after intercourse
Treatment if started early has a good prognosis. Patients are instructed to consume a large quantity of water and empirical broad-spectrum antibiotic and analgesic medications need to be started. Based on the culture and sensitivity report, the same antibiotics need to be continued or modified.