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Urinary tract infectionThe phrase urinary tract infection is commonly used to describe infections of the bladder (also known as cystitis). Urinary tract infections (UTI's) are one of the most common infections experienced and account for millions of doctor's visits per year. If a UTI goes untreated it can result in serious complications. Urinary tract infections occur more frequently in women than men but the occurrence in men increases after the age of fifty. Risk FactorsSome common misconceptions are that UTI's occur because of poor diet, poor hygiene, or wearing tight clothing. This is not exactly true. Here are some common risk factors associated with urinary tract infections. With women...
This condition occurs in women more often. The major reason urinary tract infections occur more frequently in women is because of a short urethra. The urethra is a tube leading from the bladder (where urine collects) to the outside of the body (where urine exits). In men the urethra is 20 centimeters long, in women it is a mere 4 centimeters long. This is a very short distance for potentially harmful organisms to travel. SymptomsThe symptoms of urinary tract infections include the frequency, urgency, burning on urination, cloudy foul smelling urine, lower abdominal pain, and/or blood in the urine. Some people have no symptoms at all. ManagementThe management and treatment of urinary tract infections includes medications and lifestyle changes. After an infection is indentified, medication management may include antibiotic therapy to eliminate the infection and mediation to decrease any discomfort associated with the infection. In addition to medication, some simple lifestyle changes will help promote comfort. Increase your fluid intake, this will help dilute the urine, decreasing irritation and burning by providing a continuous flow of urine to decrease stasis. Decrease your consumption of bladder irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods. Consume foods and beverages (sucha as Cranberry juice) to acidify the urine. These food items are thought to keep organisms from adhering to the walls of the bladder. Foods that aid in this includes Vitamin C. To prevent urinary tract infections and maintain good bladder health practice Urinating when you feel the urge, don't resist the urge and empty the bladder completely. Urinate after intercourse and drink plenty of water. |
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