Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
Recognizing Symptoms and Supporting a Healthy Urinary System
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are common infections that can affect the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. UTIs can occur at any age.
Causes of UTI
UTIs happen when bacteria enter the urinary system. Usually, bacteria travel up the urethra to the bladder. Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the most common type of bacteria that causes UTIs. Some things put you at higher risk of getting a UTI, including:
Obstructions, like kidney stones
Being female
Sexual activity
A previous UTI
A weak immune system
In the hospital, you may be at higher risk of getting a UTI if you have a procedure that requires a urinary catheter.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a UTI can vary but often include:
1. Frequent and strong urge to urinate
2. Pain or burning sensation during urination
3. Urinating frequently but only a tiny amount
4. Cloudy or bloody urine
5. Pelvic pain
6. Foul-smelling urine
Treatment
Most UTIs need treatment with antibiotics. Your doctor will choose the specific antibiotic based on the type of bacteria causing your infection. It is critical to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if your symptoms improve. Not taking all the antibiotics can lead to an infection with resistant germs, causing serious complications and making future UTIs harder to treat.
Other ways you can support your urinary health:
1. Drink plenty of water to help flush out bacteria.
2. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods. They can irritate your bladder.
3. Practice good hygiene, including wiping from front to back after bowel movements.
4. Urinate after sexual activity.
5. Wear cotton underwear to promote airflow and avoid an environment that encourages bacterial growth.
If you have a urinary catheter, discuss with your care team whether it can be removed. Use good hand hygiene when handling it. Avoid putting your drainage bag in a position that allows urine to flow backward.
When Urinary Tract Infections Get Serious
If left untreated, UTIs can progress and cause problems, including a bloodstream infection (sepsis) or kidney damage.
Urosepsis: Warning Signs
Urosepsis is a severe complication of UTIs in which the infection spreads from the urinary system to your bloodstream. Urosepsis is usually treatable but can be life-threatening if ignored.
Symptoms of urosepsis include:
High fever and chills
Fast breathing and heart rate
Confusion or disorientation
Dizziness
Severe weakness or fatigue
Less urine output
Tell your care team immediately if you have any of these symptoms. Get emergency care if you are out of the hospital. You may need antibiotics given through an intravenous line to treat the infection.
Resources:
Patient education: Urinary tract infections in adolescents and adults (Beyond the Basics). Up to Date.
Urinary Tract Infection | Antibiotic Use . Centers for Disease Control.
Urinary Tract Infection (Nursing). StatPearls.
Urosepsis: Overview of the Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges. American Society for Microbiology.
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