The kidneys, bladder and ureters form the urinary tract. Infections of the bladder are called cystitis, whereas infections of the kidneys and ureters are called pyelonephritis and urethritis, respectively. Infections in this region of the body are collectively called urinary tract infections, or UTIs. Treatment of UTIs does not requiring determining which specific part of the body is infected. Being familiar with causes and symptoms will help ensure that sufferers seek prompt treatment, possibly avoiding worsening of the condition.
Symptoms
Patients with UTIs typically experience urinary discomfort and pain. In addition to frequent, painful urination, low grade fever and back pain are common. Nausea, vomiting and a tenderness in the lower belly where the bladder is located may also occur.
Causes
Most UTIs occur in women because the opening of the urethra is close to the anus and vagina. Bacteria from fecal matter often make their way from the anus to the urethra when women wipe themselves. According to the Mayo Clinic, the usual bacterial suspects are Escherichia coli, or E. coli, which is naturally found in the gastrointestinal tract. Bacteria from the vagina can make their way to the urethra if the woman has herpes simplex virus, gonorrhea, chlamydia or other venereal diseases.
Prevention
Women can take simple steps to minimize the number of UTIs they contract. Wiping from front to back, instead of the reverse prevents bacterial missteps. Urinating after sex also clears the urethra of any bacteria that may have lodged there during intercourse. The Mayo Clinic advises that woman avoid potentially irritating feminine products such as douches, powders and deodorant sprays because such products can irritate the urethra.
Although cranberry juice is frequently touted by alternative practitioners as having preventive or curative powers with regard to bladder infections, the scientific community remains split on this issue.
Treatment
People who experience UTI symptoms should get to their doctors promptly before the infection spreads to the kidneys. Treatment with antibiotics remains the best alternative for quick, effective alleviation of symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, commonly used antibiotics include amoxicillin, nitrofurantoin, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim.
Patients should not rely upon over-the-counter medicines that merely mask the symptoms while allowing the bacteria to multiply.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Urinary Tract Infections - Symptoms
- Mayo Clinic: Urinary Tract Infections - Causes
- NIDDK: Urinary Tract Infections
- Cranberry Juice for the Prevention of Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections
- Does Ingestion of Cranberry Juice Reduce Symptomatic Urinary Tract Infections in Older People in Hospital?
