Female Urinary Tract Infection
Urinary tract infections, caused by microbes like bacteria, can affect the bladder, kidneys, and the tubes running between them. It occurs when microbes overcome the defenses in the top urology hospital in Bangalore urinary tract. This is among the most common infections in the world affecting millions of people every year.
Women have a risk of more than 50% of developing this infection. Read on to learn more about UTIs and how they are treated in the top urology hospital in Bangalore. Urinary tract Infections are mostly caused by the bacterium E. coli (Escherichia coli), commonly found in the digestive system.
Mycoplasma and chlamydia bacteria infect the urethra, but not your bladder. Depending on where they occur, UTIs have different names. For example, a bladder infection is known as cystitis, a kidney infection is known as pyelonephritis, and a urethra infection is known as urethritis. In very rare cases, the ureters are infected.
What are the risk factors for UTIs?
More than 50% of all women experience UTI at least once in their lifetime. About 20 to 30% of women experience recurrent UTIs. It is important to note that pregnant women don’t have a higher chance of developing UTI than any other woman. However, if they do get an infection, it might travel to the kidneys.
The reason behind this is the changes the body is going through during the pregnancy that might affect the urinary tract. Since UTIs during pregnancy can be dangerous for both mother and baby, pregnant women are usually tested for bacteria in the urine, regardless of whether there are symptoms or not. In case they do have bacteria, antibiotics are prescribed to prevent the spread.
People of any sex or age can develop a urinary tract infection. However, some are more at risk than others. Here are certain factors that can increase the likelihood of you developing a UTI:
- Sexual intercourse, especially if you are having intense, frequent sex with new or multiple partners
- Poor personal hygiene
- Diabetes
- Problems completely emptying the bladder
- Bowel incontinence
- Having a urinary catheter
- Pregnancy
- Blocked urine flow
- Some type of contraception
- Kidney stones
- Menopause
- Immobility for a long duration
- Suppressed immune system
- Procedures that involve the urinary tract
- Heavy use of antibiotics
- Use of tampons and spermicides
Treatment options for UTI
Since UTIs are mostly caused by bacteria, they are usually treated using antimicrobials or antibiotics. The length of the treatment and the type of medication will depend on your medical history and the symptoms you have been experiencing.
In order to ensure that the infection is fully treated, it is important that you complete the full treatment course. If you don’t, you will be at risk of antibiotic resistance. Frequently urinating and drinking lots of fluids is recommended as this helps in flushing out bacteria.
There are several pain relief medications you can take to alleviate pain. You can also apply a heating pad to your abdomen or back. Your treatment for UTI will also depend on the UTI you have.
In case of an uncomplicated UTI, that occurs in a healthy person that has a normal and clear urinary tract, it can be cured within 2 to 3 days.
In the case of a complicated UTI, that occurs in a person weakened by a condition like heart transplant and pregnancy, it can be cured between 7 to 14 days after a long course of antibiotics. Either way, all you have to do is visit the top urology hospital in Bangalore and the professionals will handle the rest.