You might have suffered from urinary tract infections (UTI) before, a condition that affects people of all ages, both males and females.
That said, the condition is much more common in females. As a matter of fact, 40% of all women are expected to have the condition at least once in their lifetime [1]. With that in mind, it will be beneficial for you to take note of the possible treatments.
UTI may not be a danger to your life in most cases, but the pain and discomfort can be distressing. You should never underestimate a UTI as it may be a sign of more serious diseases.
What is a urinary tract infection (UTI)?
UTI happens when there is an infection in any part of your urinary tract, such as the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra.
What are the symptoms of UTI?
Many of my UTI patients feel pain while urinating and it is usually the first sign of UTI. In addition, other symptoms include: [2]
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Burning sensation while urinating
- Blood in urine
- Cloudy urine
- Foul-smelling urine
- Pain in your lower abdomen and back
Also read: Complete Guide To The Causes Of Blood In Urine In Males & Females (2019)
What are the types of UTI?
I group UTIs into 2 categories: [3]
Uncomplicated
When it occurs in a person with a normal urinary tract - without any structural or functional abnormalities.
Complicated
When it occurs on top of other urinary conditions like an obstruction around the prostate or spinal injuries.
I group them as such because the treatment can be different and if you have recurring UTIs, you should go to a doctor and get a detailed consultation. It is better to be safe than sorry, regardless of the final diagnosis as UTIs can be a sign of more serious problems.
Also read: The Ultimate Guide to Prostate Cancer in Singapore (2021)
What causes UTI and who is at risk?
I have encountered many UTI cases in my years of practice. The risks of UTI can increase with: [4]
- Multiple sexual partners
- Pregnancy
- Menopause
- Existing urinary conditions
- Long-term use of bladder catheters
- Poorly controlled diabetes can reduce immunity. Some diabetic patients may also not empty their bladder well, causing stasis of urine.
- Lack of water intake
Also read: Incontinence In Women And Other Urinary Symptoms, Explained By A Specialist
How is UTI diagnosed?
I will start with your medical history and follow up with a physical examination. After that, I may need you to take some tests:
- Midstream urine test
- Urine culture and sensitivity test of the bacteria
- Kidney and bladder ultrasound; as well as prostate ultrasound (for men)
- Urine flow and residual urine test
Depending on your condition, you may require further tests. For instance, a CT scan, cystoscopy and urodynamic studies may be needed.
How can UTI be treated?
The most common cause of UTI is a bacterial infection. With that, the first line of treatment is antibiotics. Urine culture and sensitivity tests are very important in identifying the correct bacteria. On top of that, the tests will also check for the bacteria's sensitivity to various antibiotics.
How can I prevent UTI?
Prevention is still the best option. I have listed some general advice below:
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Pass urine regularly
- Wipe from front to the back (for women)
- Pass urine before and after sex
It’s the small changes that matter
Certain changes in your daily habits can help to prevent the condition. When the symptoms appear, I would highly recommend that you quickly consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. With that, you can prevent future infections and complications that may arise.
You should consult a doctor if you suffer from recurrent UTIs and, as a general guide, I recommend that you visit a doctor if you have got 2 infections in the last 6 months OR 3 infections in the past year.
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Dr Shirley Bang is a urologist with Advanced Urology. Her main interest lies in treatment for urinary incontinence, overactive bladder and reconstructive Urology. She also treats general urological cases.
Read more from Dr Shirley Bang in her Q&A here.
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