Urinary Tract Infections: Symptoms and Treatment?

Answer 1

Urinary tract infections are infections that affect any part of the urinary tract, though they most often start in the urethra and bladder before affecting the kidneys. In the bladder or urethra, urinary tract infections are not particularly dangerous. However, they can easily spread to the kidneys, causing serious complications.

The symptoms of urinary tract infection differ depending on which part of the urinary tract is affected. Lower urinary tract infections often cause a burning sensation and/or pain when urinating. They can also cause discolored urine from presence of blood, pelvic pain, rectal pain, frequent urination, passing small amounts of urine despite urgency and cloudy urine. Kidney infections, which happen when a bladder or urethra infection spread to the kidneys, produce more severe symptoms. They can include fever, nausea, vomiting and Back pain. Painful, burning and frequent urination are often still present as well.

It is recommended for people experiencing urinary tract infections to see a doctor for an antibiotic. This is because many urinary tract infections will not go away on their own and can worsen with time. The doctor will typically prescribe an antibiotic and possibly a urinary pain reliever. In the event that a kidney infection has occurred, intravenous treatment may be necessary. Sometimes hospitalization is even necessary, depending on the extent of the infection.

Home treatment is not recommended for urinary tract infections. However, there are some things an individual can do to help the medicine along and relieve their discomfort during the infection. Drinking plenty of fluids is the best ways to help the body get rid of an infection in the urinary tract. Water or sugar-free juice is best. A hot pad on the lower abdomen can help relieve bladder discomfort. Lastly, wearing loose, clean clothing and showering daily can help as well.

The cause of urinary tract infections is bacteria making its way into the urinary tract. These bacteria may flush out on their own or go away before they even begin to multiply. However, they can also take root and multiply quickly. The most common bacterial cause of urinary tract infections is E. coli. Women are more likely to be infected through intercourse and because of the proximity of the anus to the urethra.