Although they are often harmless, urinary tract infections (UTIs) can sometimes cause serious complications, which is why it is important to recognise them in time and treat them correctly. Read on to learn more.
What are Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections are one of the most common bacterial infections, affecting a large number of people, especially women, each year. They can affect any part of the urinary tract – the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. However, the most common infections affect the lower part of the urinary tract, which includes infections of the bladder and urethra. Although they are often temporary and not a serious condition, their symptoms can be uncomfortable, bothersome, and irritating, and sometimes, serious complications can occur. UTI can be acute or chronic. Chronic urinary tract infections are considered to be recurrent infections or two or more symptomatic infections that have occurred in the last 12 months.
Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infections
Symptoms of UTI most often occur suddenly and may be accompanied by pelvic and lower back pain, painful intercourse, fatigue, or fever. The most common symptoms of a urinary tract infection include:
- Frequent urination
- Pain and burning when urinating
- Urgent need to urinate
- Urination at night
- Cloudy urine
- Unpleasant smell of urine
- The presence of blood in the urine
How are Urinary Infections Treated
UTIs are treated with antibiotics, and the duration and type of treatment depend on the causative agent, the patient’s age, the extent of the infection, and any additional complications. Antibiotics for urinary tract infections should be taken as directed by your doctor, regularly, until the prescribed course of treatment is completed, usually 3-7 days. Although symptoms may improve after a few days, it is important to complete the course of treatment, otherwise, the bacteria may continue to multiply. You should also drink plenty of fluids, as hydration encourages urination and the flushing of bacteria from the urinary tract.
Other Things that Can Help
Other things that can help include:
- Urinating whenever you feel the need and not retaining urine
- Trying to empty your bladder
- Reducing your caffeine intake
- Not smoking
- Maintaining proper intimate hygiene
- Wearing cotton underwear and avoiding synthetics
- Taking probiotics
Some natural ways to help with UTI include drinking bearberry tea and cranberry juice, and eating garlic and sauerkraut.
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➥ DISCLAIMER: This post is not intended to replace medical treatment. The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.