Signs And Causes Of Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections are common bacterial infections that can occur in any part of the urinary tract, including the ureter, bladder, and kidneys, though they typically begin in the bladder.

While a urinalysis in a physician's office is one way to diagnose a urinary tract infection, doctors can diagnose UTIs via remote consultations by asking a series of targeted questions combined with your medical history. Online visits can help you get treatment for your UTI quickly.

Signs of a UTI

UTIs may present with only one or two symptoms or you may experience most or all of the common symptoms. The most common signs of a urinary tract infection are a persistent need to urinate, urinating in small amounts frequently, and a burning sensation during urination.

You may also notice a change in the appearance or smell of your urine. People who have a UTI often have dark or cloudy urine that has a foul smell. In some cases, there may even be blood in the urine.

Pelvic pain is another common symptom of a UTI, particularly in women. UTIs that have spread to the kidneys may lead to chills, fever, and back or flank pain.

Causes of UTIs

Urinary tract infections are usually caused by the Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria. This bacteria is naturally present in the intestines and colon, but it can lead to an infection if it migrates to the urinary tract. Many UTIs are caused by bacteria entering the urinary system through the urethra.

It's important for females to wipe from front to back when urinating to prevent bacteria from around the anus from getting into the urethra. Voiding urine when you feel the need to go is also important in the prevention of UTIs, as holding your urine can give bacteria time to multiply in the bladder.

Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing to prevent moisture buildup, which creates an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Urinate before and after sexual intercourse to help wash away bacteria that could enter the urethra and lead to infection.

Take baths instead of showers if you are prone to UTIs as sitting in bath water makes it easier for irritating hygiene products and bacteria to enter the urinary tract. 

People who use urinary catheters, diabetics, and women undergoing menopause are more likely to develop UTIs and should be particularly careful to avoid habits that make infections more likely.

If you think you may have a UTI, an online consultation can help rule out other types of infections or medical issues. UTIs need antibiotic treatment to fully clear the infection and prevent it from coming back.

For more information, contact a company like The UTI Doctor.

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