Urinary tract infections are not life-threatening if caught early, but if left untreated, they can cause serious symptoms. The urinary system, which includes the kidneys, bladder, ureter, and urethra, is the part of the body responsible for excreting urine. Urine flows from the kidneys through the ureters and into the bladder before being ejected through the urethra and out of the body via the penis.
Bacteria can build up anywhere in the urinary tract, resulting in a urinary tract infection. Infections in the urinary system are more frequent in women, although they can also affect men.
Infections in the urinary tract, which is separated into two segments, can occur in one of two ways. It is possible for either the upper or lower tract to become infected. The infection will be found in the prostate, urethra, or bladder if it arises in the lower tract. The ureters or kidneys will be affected by an infection in the upper digestive system.
CAUSES of UTI
The bacterium that most frequently infects the urinary system is found in the human body naturally. The urethra is where Escherichia coli, often known as E. coli, enters the body.
As men get older, they are more prone to urinary tract infections. As men get older, the prostate gland, which is generally the size of a walnut, can enlarge. Benign prostatic hyperplasia is the medical term for prostate growth. The bladder’s neck, where the bladder connects to the urethra, is squeezed as the prostate expands. When you go to the bathroom, your bladder may not completely empty itself as a result of this. Natural germs are not flushed out when the bladder fails to clear all of the pee. Urinary tract infections are more likely as a result of this.
Diabetes, a sedentary lifestyle, not being circumcised, and fecal incontinence are all factors that might cause urinary tract infections in males. If you don’t drink enough water, your risk increases.
Diagnosing UTI
Your doctor will examine your symptoms, which include pain or a burning feeling when peeing, frequent impulses to urinate, pain in the lower central abdomen, and blood in the urine, to diagnose a urinary tract infection. You must also provide a urine sample, which will be sent to a laboratory for testing to discover if bacteria are present.
If you have recurrent urinary tract infections, your doctor may suggest a digital rectal exam to see if your prostate gland has enlarged, which could be contributing to the infections.
How to Avoid Getting Urinary Tract Infections
Infections of the urinary system can be avoided by maintaining good toilet hygiene. Bacteria can be kept out of your system by wiping from front to back and away from the urethra.
It’s also crucial to empty the bladder completely. If you realize that you are not excreting all of your pee, make an appointment with a urologist before your symptoms worsen. If you are proactive about your urological health and contact a medical professional before uncomfortable or serious symptoms appear, you can avoid a lot of health problems.
Finally, don’t put off going to the restroom when you feel the desire. When you have the urge, go. Keeping urine for a lengthy period of time can cause health issues.
If you suspect you may have a urinary tract infection, another urological health issue, or a men’s health issue, our urologists of the Philippine Urological Association is happy to help. For more information, you may book an appointment here.
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