Understanding UTIs: Symptoms, Causes, Risk Factors and Prevention Tips

A urinary tract infection, simply referred to as UTI, can affect any part of the urinary system. The urinary system encompasses the kidneys, bladder, urethra and ureters. A UTI infection majorly involves the lower urinary tract-bladder and urethra.

Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

A UTI infection does not always cause symptoms. However, when it does, the signs of a urinary tract infection may include:

• A strong urge to urinate despite an empty bladder

• A burning feeling while urinating

• Frequent urination and passing small amounts of urine

• Urine that appears cloudy

• Urine that appears red due to the presence of blood

• Strong-smelling urine

• Pelvic pain in females

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Types

Different types of UTI can result in symptoms that are different from one other but specific for each type. The symptoms of UTI also vary based on the part of the urinary tract affected.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Causes

In general, UTIs occur when bacteria enters the urinary tract through the urethra and spreads in the bladder. The urinary system is designed to fight bacteria, however, sometimes the defence fails. When this happens, the bacteria grows, causing an infection in the urinary tract. The most common UTI infections occur in women and affect the bladder and urethra.

• Infection of the bladder: This type of UTI infection is caused by E.coli (Escherichia Coli).

Note: All females are at a risk of bladder infection because of their anatomy.

• Infection of the urethra: This type of UTI occurs when the bacteria present in the gastrointestinal tract spreads from the anus to the urethra. Infection in the urethra can also be caused by sexually transmitted infections such as, chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and herpes.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Risk Factors

A UTI infection is common in women. In fact, several women experience more than one UTI infection during their lifetime. UTI risk factors that are specific to women may include:

• Female anatomy: Women have a shorter urethra as compared to men. Due to this, there is less distance for the bacteria to travel and reach the bladder.

• Sexual activity: Being sexually active increases the chances of UTI.

• Certain birth control: Diaphragms and spermicidal agents may also lead to a greater risk of UTIs.

• Menopause: After menopause, a decline in the estrogen causes changes in the urinary tract, increasing the risk of UTIs.

Other UTI risk factors may include:

• Urinary tract problems present since birth

• Blockage in the urinary tract

• A weakened or suppressed immune system

• Use of a catheter to urinate

• A recent urinary surgery or examination

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Diagnosis

A doctor may determine if you have a urinary tract infection by:

• Asking about symptoms

• Conducting a physical examination

• Ordering urine tests such as:

• Urinalysis: During this test, a urine sample will be sent to a laboratory to examine signs of a UTI using variables like white blood cells, leukocyte esterase, and nitrites.
  

• Urine culture: For a urine culture, a lab technician will test the urine sample for bacterial growth. Urine cultures are important because they help determine the most appropriate UTI treatment. 

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Treatment

The treatment for UTI includes a prescription for a short course of antibiotics. However, it is important to note that doctors may suggest waiting for 48 hours before starting the medication in case the symptoms go away on their own. A urologist may also offer self-care advice such as drinking more fluids and taking prebiotics. Also, over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol may be prescribed to help with pain and burning sensation while urinating.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Complications

Urinary tract infections rarely lead to any complications, if treated promptly. However, if left untreated, UTIs can cause serious health issues such as:

• Repetitive infections (which may lead to narrowed urethra in men)

• Permanent kidney damage

• Delivering a premature or low birth weight infant, if UTI happens during pregnancy

• Sepsis

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Prevention

The following steps can help lower the risk of UTIs or prevent it:

• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water helps dilute the urine. This leads to frequent urination- allowing bacteria to be flushed from the urinary tract before an infection begins.
  

• Incorporating cranberry extract supplements or vitamin pills in the diet can help decrease the chances of getting a UTI.
  

• Change your birth control methods: Condoms treated with spermicide or diaphragms can contribute to bacterial growth.

Article By Dr. Nidhi Rajotia (Goel)
Sr. Consultant - Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Artemis Hospitals

Frequently Asked Questions

How to stop a urinary tract infection quickly?

Some of the easiest ways to stop a UTI can be:

• Drink plenty of water

• Take prebiotics and add vitamin C to the diet

• Avoid bladder irritating foods such as, very acidic or citrus foods, caffeine, artificial sweeteners, and alcohol

• Consider alternate birth control methods in case of frequent UTIs. 

What is the best treatment for a UTI?

A minor urinary tract infection can get better on its own. However, a majority of UTIs are treated with antibiotics. A doctor will select an antibiotic that works best against the bacteria causing the infection. Once the antibiotics are prescribed, it’s important to take them as directed for the best results.

What are the three most common UTI symptoms?

The three most common UTI symptoms may include:

• A strong urge to urinate

• A burning feeling while urinating

• Frequent urination or passing small amounts of urine

What is the major cause of a UTI?

A urinary tract infection develops when microbes enter the urinary tract and cause an infection. Bacteria are the most common cause of a UTI infection. E.coli bacteria found in the bowel cause most UTIs.