A urinary tract infection (UTI) is the second most common type of infection in the body, states the National Kidney and Urologica Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC). The urinary system is made up of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. Some symptoms of UTIs include fever, strong smelling urine and dark urine. With proper treatment, the infection is generally mild. Bacteria is one of the common causes of UTIs.
Escherichia Coli
Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a type of bacteria that resides in the colon. When it makes its way from the rectal area to the ureters (tubes that carry urine from the bladder), it can cause an infection. This can be the result of improper hygiene, such as inadequate cleaning following a bowel movement. Women are especially susceptible to urinary tract infections, states the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMM). One way for a woman to prevent the E. coli bacteria from infecting the urinary system is to wipe from the front (vagina first) to the back (rectum).
Sexually Transmitted Disease
Chlamydia and mycoplasma are two types of microorganisms that can cause UTIs in men and women, states the NUKDIC. The microorganisms can be transmitted sexually. Once the urethra comes in contact with the infectious agents, they can travel upward and begin reproducing. Sometimes an infection is limited to the urethra and is called urethritis. Once the infectious agents move further up the urinary tract, other parts can become infected.
Urinary Obstructions
Urinary obstructions are another common cause of UTIs. Examples of such obstructions includes kidney stones, enlarged prostate and even abnormal growth development in infants and children, states the NUKDIC. Surgery can remove the abnormal growth once it is identified.
Other Causes
When a medical procedure or condition requires the use of a urinary catheter to catch urine, the individual becomes at risk of an infection of the urinary tract. Prolonged use or improper cleaning of the equipment can allow the bladder and other urinary tract components to become exposed to an infectious agent. Improper hygiene can promote UTIs. This includes individuals not carrying out simple cleansing processes after sexual intercourse or bouts of diarrhea. Individuals with a weakened immune system are also at a higher risk of contracting this type of infection.
