No one wants to talk about urinary tract infections (UTIs), but they are a very common reality among women and also some men. In fact, it is estimated that one in two women may experience a UTI in their lifetime. Some women are unlucky enough to have repeat infections plague them for years. According to the CDC, “In the United States, urinary tract infections (UTIs) account for about 4 million ambulatory care visits each year representing about 1 percent of all outpatient visits.”
So what do you do when you feel the discomfort associated with this type of infection? In this article, we’ll explore causes and predispositions to UTIs, signs that may alert you to the possibility that you are indeed experiencing a UTI and treatments for UTIs.
What Causes a UTI?
The urinary tract is composed of the bladder, kidneys and the tubes that connect these organs to make up the system that makes and eliminates urine from your body. When this tract and associated organs are exposed to certain germs, an infection can begin. In women, it is believed that infections are more common because the urethra (the tube that takes urine out of the body) is shorter than in men and allows germs easier access to the urinary tract.
Most infections begin in the bladder and are easily treated without any lasting effects. However, if the infection is ignored and left untreated, it can spread to the kidneys, causing additional complications and potential permanent damage. For this reason, it is important that you are aware of the signs of a UTI and that you seek immediate medical attention to ensure timely management of the infection.