Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that affects any part of your urinary system, including your kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. UTIs are more common in women than men due to the shorter length of the female urethra.
Lower UTI: This affects the bladder and urethra. Symptoms include:
Frequent urination
Painful urination
Urgent need to urinate
Cloudy or bloody urine
Pelvic pain
Upper UTI (kidney infection): This is a more serious infection that affects the kidneys. Symptoms include:
High fever and chills
Back or side pain
Nausea and vomiting
Frequent urination
Painful urination
Cloudy or bloody urine
Causes
UTIs are most commonly caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and travel to the bladder. These bacteria often come from the rectum or vagina. Other risk factors for UTIs include:
- Female anatomy: Women are more prone to UTIs because their urethra is shorter and closer to the anus.
- Poor hygiene: Wiping from back to front after using the toilet can spread bacteria to the urethra.
- Pregnancy: Pregnancy can weaken the bladder muscles and make it more difficult to empty completely, increasing the risk of infection.
- Menopause: Decreased estrogen levels after menopause can lead to thinning of the vaginal lining and changes in the vaginal bacteria, increasing the risk of UTIs.
- Catheter use: Having a catheter inserted into the bladder can increase the risk of infection.
- Kidney stones: Kidney stones can block the flow of urine and increase the risk of infection.
- Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to UTIs.