A urinary tract infection, or UTI, occurs when microorganisms are able to infect parts of the urinary system. The infection may affect the bladder, kidneys, as well as the urethra and the ducts that carry urine to the bladder. In men, UTIs can cause prostate problems as well as pain when urinating, explains Drugs.com.
Antibiotics
UTIs in men can be treated using oral or intravenous antibiotics, notes MedlinePlus. The duration of antibiotic treatment depends on the severity of the UTI. If the infection is mild, then the treatment usually lasts between 1 to 2 weeks; a severe infection treatment can last anywhere from 6 month to 2 years. Moreover, in instances of a severe or chronic urinary tract infection, the dose of antibiotics is typically higher than the dose used in milder infections.
Proper Hydration
Men with UTIs may urinate more frequently than normal. As such, it is necessary to increase fluid intake, explains Drugs.com. Fluid intake serves two functions: helping purge the urinary system of the infection, and maintaining proper hydration levels. The types of fluids used can vary depending on the severity of the UTI, and ordinary water may be sufficient for mild UTIs. Oral rehydration salt solutions may also be useful in helping prevent dehydration. Drinking fruit juice that is highly acidic may also have the added benefit of preventing the infection from recurring. Severe UTIs may require the fluids to be administered intravenously, notes MedlinePlus.
Getting Adequate Rest
Getting adequate rest is an effective way to allow the immune system better fight UTIs, notes Drugs.com, because the body is better able to focus on eliminating the invading microbes that are causing the infection.
Medications
UTIs may cause a painful burning sensation during urinating, notes Drugs.com. As such, pain medication such as analgesics may be a necessary, explains MayoClinic.com. Other medications may also be administered to reduce the elevated urination rate, according to MedlinePlus. Pain medications may cause the urine to become discolored.
