*URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS* Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are incredibly common, affecting millions of people each year. They’re more than just a health setback, if ignored, they can cause serious problems. You will benefit from understanding and preventing it *🔑 WHAT IS A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?* A UTI happens when harmful bacteria, often Escherichia coli (E. coli), enter the urinary system. This system includes your kidneys, bladder, ureters (tubes connecting kidneys and bladder), and urethra (the tube that carries urine out). While most infections start in the bladder, they can work their way up to the kidneys, causing severe complications. See photo above 👆 *🔑 HOW COMMON IS UTIs?* Pretty common: - About 50-60% of women will experience a UTI in their lifetime. - Men and children can get UTIs too, but they’re less common. - Women are more prone due to their shorter urethra, making it easier for bacteria to travel. *🔑 SYMPTOMS TO WATCH OUT FOR* - Pain or burning during urination. - Frequent urge to pee, even when your bladder is nearly empty. - Cloudy, bloody, or foul-smelling urine. - Pain in the lower abdomen or back. - Fever and chills (if the infection reaches the kidneys). If you notice these symptoms, don’t ignore them *🔑 WHAT CAUSES UTIs?* - Poor hygiene (like wiping back to front after using the bathroom). - Not peeing after sex, which can let bacteria into the urethra. - Holding in urine for too long. - Dehydration, which leads to less urination to flush out bacteria. - Certain medical conditions, like diabetes or kidney stones *🔑 WHO IS AT RISK?* - Women (due to anatomy, The urethra in women is much shorter than in men, making it easier for bacteria to travel from the outside of the body to the bladder) - Pregnant individuals (hormonal changes can affect the urinary tract). - Postmenopausal women (lower estrogen levels can weaken urinary defenses). - People with catheters or who are bedridden. *🔑 HOW IS IT TREATED?* - UTIs are usually treated with antibiotics. The type and duration depend on the severity of the infection. The medication has to be recommended on prescription, usually after suitable tests - Mild cases can clear up in a few days, but kidney infections may need stronger treatment *🔑 WHY YOU SHOULD NOT IGNORE UTI?* An untreated UTI can lead to: - Kidney infections, which are more serious and can cause lasting damage. - Blood infections (sepsis), especially in older adults. - During pregnancy, as untreated UTIs can lead to complications. *🔑 HOW TO PREVENT UTIs* - Drink plenty of water to flush your urinary system - Don’t hold your pee, go when you feel the urge - Practice good hygiene: wipe front to back and keep the genital area clean. - Pee after sex to wash away any bacteria - Avoid douching or using harsh soaps near your genitals - Probiotics, especially those containing “Lactobacillus” strains, may help prevent UTIs by maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in the urinary and vaginal microbiomes. UTIs can affect your daily life but are highly preventable and treatable. Stay hydrated, practice good hygiene, and seek care if you notice symptoms.