Description

🚻 What is a UTI? A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of your urinary system — kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. Most commonly, it affects the lower urinary tract (bladder and urethra). 💥 Causes Bacteria (usually E. coli) from the digestive tract entering the urinary tract. Poor hygiene, dehydration, sexual activity, catheter use, or anatomical issues can increase risk. 🔍 Types of UTIs Cystitis (Bladder infection) Most common Usually caused by E. coli Urethritis (Urethra infection) Often linked to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) Pyelonephritis (Kidney infection) More serious; infection has traveled up to the kidneys ⚠️ Symptoms Lower UTI (Bladder/Urethra) Burning sensation while urinating Frequent urge to urinate Cloudy or strong-smelling urine Blood in urine (hematuria) Pelvic pain (in women) Upper UTI (Kidneys) Fever, chills Flank/back pain Nausea or vomiting Fatigue 🧪 Diagnosis Urinalysis: Looks for signs of infection (e.g., white blood cells, nitrites) Urine culture: Identifies the bacteria causing the infection Imaging (ultrasound or CT) if recurrent or complicated cases 💊 Treatment Antibiotics: Based on severity and type Simple UTI: Nitrofurantoin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, fosfomycin Complicated/recurrent: May require longer course or IV antibiotics Pain relief: Phenazopyridine (a urinary analgesic) 🔁 Recurrent UTIs More common in women Can be due to anatomical, behavioral, or hormonal factors May need: Low-dose daily antibiotics Post-coital antibiotics Vaginal estrogen (in postmenopausal women) 🛡️ Prevention Tips Stay hydrated Urinate after sex Wipe front to back (for women) Avoid irritating feminine products Don't hold urine for long periods