Chapter 1
What is a urinary tract infection (UTI)?
A UTI is an infection that develops in any area of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, bladder, ureters (tubes that connect a kidney to the bladder) or the urethra (tube through which urine exits the body). In most cases, UTIs develop in the bladder or urethra.
Chapter 2
What causes a urinary tract infection?
Bacteria enters the urinary tract and causes a UTI. However, risk factors are different between men and women:
Because women have a shorter urethra than men, bacteria have a shorter distance to travel to reach the urinary tract. Therefore, women develop UTIs more frequently than men. There are a variety of other ways that a female can develop a UTI, including:
- Being postmenopausal
- Having sex – especially with a new sexual partner
- Using certain types of birth control, including a diaphragm or spermicidal agent
While less common than in women, men can also develop UTIs. Along with the risk factors listed below, an enlarged prostate can also cause a UTI in men.
Many people who get frequent UTIs have one or more of the following risk factors:
- Having a blockage in your urinary tract, which may be caused by a kidney stone
- Having a congenital (present at birth) urinary tract problem
- Having certain health conditions that weaken your immune system, including diabetes
- Having multiple or new sexual partners
- Having undergone surgery of the urinary tract
- Using a catheter to empty your bladder
Chapter 5
How to treat a urinary tract infection?
Depending on the location of your UTI, whether it’s an acute (one-time) or chronic infection, your overall health and other factors, your doctor will suggest one or a combination of the following treatment options for UTI.
Medication: What is the best antibiotic for urinary tract infection?
There are a number of antibiotic medications available to treat UTIs. The exact antibiotic that your doctor prescribes for you depends on the type of bacteria that caused your UTI. In most cases, people get relief from their UTI symptoms within a few days of taking an antibiotic. Even if you’re feeling better, it’s important that you finish the whole course of antibiotic medications so the infection doesn’t return or become chronic.
Home Remedies
If you are experiencing severe pain with your UTI, your doctor may suggest you take over-the-counter pain medication – such as ibuprofen or aspirin – while your body heals. You can also try a heating pad in the area of the pain to help manage the pain. You should also try to drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine, alcohol and citrus while your UTI resolves.
Chapter 6
How to prevent urinary tract infections?
There are some measures you can take to help reduce your risk of developing a UTI.
Do the following:
- Drink cranberry juice
- Drink plenty of liquids, especially water
- Urinate after having sex
- Wipe from front to back after using the toilet
Don’t do the following:
- Use deodorant sprays, douches or powders (for women)
- Wipe from back to front after using the toilet
Where can I receive treatment?
