Also known as a urinary tract infection, the problem can affect both men and women; understand how to treat and risk factors
Urinary tract infection is among the most common infectious diseases in clinical practice, particularly in children, young adults and sexually active women. Data from the Municipal Commission for Infection Control in Contagious Health Services (CMCISS) also indicate that urinary tract infections (UTIs) are generally caused by bacteria present in the intestinal flora.
Symptoms include pain or burning when urinating, frequent need to pee, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and pain in the lower abdomen.
Most urinary tract infections can be treated with antibiotics, but some can be more serious and require intensive care. Therefore, it is essential to seek medical treatment. Do we understand more on the subject?
What causes a urinary tract infection?
Drinking little water, holding urine, poor hygiene in the intimate area, having kidney stones, menopause, using diapers and poorly maintained sexual intercourse are some of the causes that explain the appearance of this type of infection. People with diabetes, pregnant women, and the elderly may also be more prone to urinary tract infections.
types
Did you know that there are basically two types of infections? The occurrence will depend on which part of the urinary tract is affected and how severe the situation is.
cystitis
Bacterial infection in the bladder or lower urinary tract. It’s the most common type, known as a “bottom infection,” and usually causes painful urination, frequent urge to pee, and a feeling of pressure in the bladder.
pyelonephritis
Upper urinary tract infection, known as “discharge”. It is more serious and can cause fever, back pain and nausea, as well as urinary symptoms.
What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection?
Burning and pain when urinating, pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, among others, are usually common symptoms of the infection, but everything will depend on the severity of the case. In some situations, urine may have a strong smell, a cloudy color, or even blood. Fever, chills, abdominal or back pain, and nausea are symptoms of more severe cases.
how to treat
Antibiotics, drinking plenty of water, and not holding urine are some tips on how to treat the infection. There is also a home treatment, but be careful because it is not effective alone. However, there are options that speed healing, such as: tea with basil, watermelon and cranberries.
Medical treatment
After consulting a specialist and understanding your case, medical treatment should help clear the infection. It generally involves the use of antibiotics which must be taken according to the indications and times indicated.
Attention: even if the symptoms disappear before the end of the treatment, continue taking the drug! There are cases when the use of analgesics to relieve discomfort is indicated.
home treatment
Drinking plenty of water is always the most important thing to do to take care of this and other pathologies. Home treatment helps relieve pain, but it doesn’t work by itself. Natural juices and herbal teas that have diuretic properties can help. Warm compresses in the abdominal region are used to reduce discomfort.
Risk factors
People with a vagina are more susceptible to getting a urinary tract infection, and there are several risk factors involved, such as sexual activity itself. Check out others: use of spermicides, pregnancy, menopause, urinary obstruction, diabetes mellitus, kidney problems, weakened immune system, prolonged use of urinary catheters, among others.
Complications
The main complications of the infection are recurring disease, risk of blood infection (sepsis), and kidney damage. If left untreated, the infection can progress and lead to death.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.