The symptoms of UTI mostly depend on the location of the infection
Urinary tract infection (UTI) is, as the name suggests, the infection of the urinary tract or the urinary system. However, the effects of this infection when left untreated wreaks havoc on the system which is one of the most important parts of the body as it helps in excretion of toxic wastes. The urinary system comprises kidneys, bladder, ureters and urethra.
Why does it happen?
Mostly the UTIs are caused by bacteria. When bacteria enters the urethra and the bladder it tends to accumulate and grow there causing an infection. There might be chances that this may spread to kidneys too.
Women have a greater chance of getting this disease than men because their urethra is shorter than men. Menopause is also a potential factor that causes UTIs in women.
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What are the symptoms of UTIs?
The symptoms of UTIs mostly depend on the location of the infection. Though infection in the lower urinary tract is common, an infection in the upper urinary tract can not be ruled out.
When the bacterial infection happens at the lower urinary tract an individual is likely to experience a burning sensation while urinating. During the infection, the individual may have to go for urination frequently without passing much urine. Sometimes the urine may have a strong foul smell and may look cloudy. In some cases the individual may experience pain in the pelvic region or near the anus.
When the infection happens in the upper urinary tract, it is likely to affect the functioning of the kidneys. This can be life threatening as it can cause low blood pressure, shock and even death. The person can experience chills, fever, nausea, vomiting in the early stage.
What are the risk factors?
There are more risk factors for women than men when it comes to getting UTIs. The common risk factors which women should be aware of are:
- Shorter urethra
- Pressure during penetrative sex can help bacteria move to bladder from anus
- Non lubricated condoms may irritate the skin and increase the risk of UTI
- Decrease in estrogen level during menopause can be a breeding ground for bacteria
- Certain types of birth control are also responsible for UTIs
- Those with a suppressed immune system are at a higher risk of developing this infection
- Kidney stones are also responsible for causing UTIs