A urinary tract infection can involve all the organs of the urinary tract: the kidneys, ureters or tubes to the bladder, the bladder and the urethra, or tube from the bladder to the exterior of the body. Though urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are more common in women due to a shorter urethra anatomy, UTIs are also prevalent in men. General symptoms of UTIs include a persistent urge to urinate, a feeling of incomplete urination, a burning sensation when urinating, urine that appears cloudy or bright pink in color and strong-smelling urine. The MayoClinic.com notes that some symptoms differ slightly between the genders; men may feel pain in the rectal area, while in women, pelvic pain is more common.
Lack of Hygiene
Bacteria usually cause urinary tract infections, so in some cases, they are preventable by the right hygiene. According to the National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), in healthy individuals, urine is sterile and does not contain infection-causing bacteria. However, bacterial from the intestines called E. coli can come into contact with the opening of the urethra and enter the urinary system. This bacteria is the most common cause of UTIs, though other bacteria can also cause infections. Correct hygiene, such as avoiding wiping from the back to the front and using water to cleanse the area after urination or a bowel movement helps to prevent UTIs.
Kidney Stones
Men are more prone to kidney stones, and these can become infected, causing symptoms such as upper back and side pain, fever, chills, nausea and vomiting. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) notes that a kidney infection, or pyelonephritis, can be caused by kidney stones and lead to an infection in other areas of the urinary tract such as the bladder and urethra.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
The MayoClinic.com states that sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can cause UTIs in both men and women and be transmitted to other sexual partners. STDs most commonly cause urinary tract infections in the urethra, though other areas of the urinary tract may also be affected. These include STDs such as Chlamydia, herpes and gonorrhea. Having multiple sexual partners can increase the risk of STDs and urinary tract infections.
Prostate
In men, the prostate gland is located close to the rectum and around the urethra. Normally, it helps to prevent a urinary tract infection from occurring by secreting fluids that deter bacterial growth and infections, as mentioned by the College of Family Physicians of Canada. In problems of the prostate such as infections or prostatitis, the secretions may be decreased or altered. An enlarged prostate also causes urination problems by pressing on the urethra and decreasing the flow of urine out of the body. This can cause urine to back up into the bladder, resulting in more favorable conditions for bacteria to multiply and cause a UTI.
