URINARY TRACT INFECTION (UTI)
WHAT IS IT:
Bacteria infecting the lining of the urethra and bladder cause urinary tract infections, also called bladder infections and cystitis. UTIs are one of the most common infections in the United States.
WHAT CAUSES IT:
Bacteria normally found in the intestines entering the urinary tract usually cause UTIs. This can occur while wiping back to front, instead of front to back, after going to the bathroom, using a diaphragm, or having sex.
SYMPTOMS:
The symptoms of a UTI may include burning during urination, the urge to urinate frequently, bloody urine, and pain in the lower abdomen.
If a UTI is untreated, it can spread into the kidneys. The symptoms of a kidney infection are low back pain, fever, chills, and/or nausea. An untreated kidney infection can lead to kidney disease and, eventually, kidney failure.
TREATMENT:
UTIs can be treated with many different antibiotics. A urine culture is usually done to determine which antibiotics the bacteria are sensitive to. A person with a UTI should be sure to drink plenty of water and avoid sugar and alcohol. Over-the-counter medications are available to reduce the symptoms of a UTI, but they do not cure the infection.
Many home remedies exist for UTIs. Unsweetened or artificially sweetened cranberry juice or cranberry pills and blueberries can help bacteria detach from the wall of the urinary tract. Vitamin C can increase the acidity of the urine, which discourages the growth of bacteria. If a home remedy does not work within a few days, be sure to see a health care provider for antibiotics.
RECURRENCE:
Having had a UTI does not protect a person from getting it again. 90% of women who have a UTI will have another in the future. A person may have UTIs many times in their life.
PREVENTION:
Be sure to wipe from front to back after going to the bathroom. Drink plenty of water every day. Do not use a diaphragm if it has caused a UTI in the past. Washing the genitals after sex can help prevent the spread of bacteria.