Urinary infections are quite common among persons worldwide, especially among women. In fact, it is estimated that almost 50% of women experience at least one urinary tract infection (UTI) throughout their lifetime.

These infections occur mainly due to the attack of bacteria on the urinary tract system, leading to the development of symptoms such as a painful burning sensation when urinating, frequent visits to the restroom, and sometimes, even fever.

Causes of UTIs

The common causes of UTIs include the presence of E.coli bacteria, which are found primarily in the gastrointestinal tract.

Besides, other extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) bacteria, such as Klebsiella pneumonia, which are increasingly becoming resistant to antibiotics, may also lead to the infections. These bacteria typically travel up the urinary tract and attach themselves to the bladder, urethra, or kidneys, depending on the degree of the infection.

When the bacteria attach themselves to these organs, they begin to spread and multiply, often leading to the development of unpleasant symptoms for the infected person.

Symptoms of UTIs

UTIs have a range of symptoms which include:.

Painful or burning sensation when urinating
Frequent urination
Strong odor in the urine
Cloudy discharge
Pain in the lower abdomen or back
Fever (in severe cases)

Assessment of UTIs

The assessment of UTIs begins with a physical examination, followed by a discussion of symptoms and medical history. A urine sample is collected to assess the level of bacteria present and to test for drug sensitivity.

In complicated or severe cases, blood tests may also be necessary to assess organ function and overall health. Health care professionals use several different tests to obtain details of an individual’s UTI so that they can make an accurate diagnosis and create an effective treatment plan.

Treating UTIs

The most common approach to treat UTIs is through antibiotics, which acts as bacterial agents to eradicate the harmful bacteria.

Antibiotics are effective based on the type of bacteria that has caused the infection, therefore, specific classes of antibiotics are used in line with the bacteria identified in the laboratory testing. The duration of the antibiotic course depends on the severity of the infection and can range from one day to two weeks, but it is usually 7-14 days.

Drinking lots of fluids and using over-the-counter pain relievers may also help alleviate some of the symptoms.

Preventing UTIs

There are several things that people can do to prevent UTIs, including:.

Drink a lot of water
Clean the genital area before and after sex
Urinate regularly
Use unscented sanitary pads and tampons
Wipe her body from front to back after using the toilet
Take showers instead of baths

Conclusion

Urinary infections can be bothersome and uncomfortable, but it is important to seek medical attention as soon as symptoms of a UTI are noticed. Delaying treatment can lead to further complications such as kidney damage.

With proper diagnosis and treatment, however, the vast majority of urinary tract infections can be cured with antibiotics, leading to full recovery within a short time period.