Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

INTRODUCTION:-The urinary tract comprises of the kidney, the urinary bladder, the ureter and the urethra.A bacterial infection in any of these organs is known as Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). Depending on the  organ affected, the infection is known with different names like cystitis or bladder infection (infection in the urinary bladder),  pyelonephritis  (infection in the kidneys), urethritis  (infection in the ureter ), etc. The infection usually occurs in the lower urinary tract, i.e., the  urethra and the ureter and travels upwards.

CAUSES: -the most common cause of UTI is bacterial infection, and the Escherichia coli or E. coli is the most common causal agent. This bacteria is found in the colon and sometimes around the anus. Apart from E.coli, urinary tract infections can be caused by other microorganisms too. They include chlamydia and mycoplasma, which can cause UTI in both men and women. It has been observed that the infection caused by  these microorganisms are often limited to the urethra and the reproductive system.

SYMPTOMS:-Pain during urination  ,Difficulty in urination ,Burning sensation during urination ,Blood in urine ,Foul smelling urine ,Frequent urge to urinate ,Low grade fever ,Lower abdominal cramps/pain ,Chills ,Pain in groin

DIAGNOSIS:-Making a diagnosis of a urinary tract infection begins with taking a thorough personal and family medical history, including symptoms, and completing a physical examination. It also includes performing a urinalysis test, which checks for the presence of pus, white blood cells, and bacteria in the urine, which point to a urinary tract infection. A urine culture and sensitivity is usually performed to find the exact microorganism that is causing the infection and to determine the most effective antibiotic to treat it.

Imaging tests, such as ultrasound, CT, nuclear scan, or voiding cystourethrogram. Cystourethrogram may also be ordered to evaluate the functioning of the urinary tract. Specific methods of investigation include X-ray, nuclear medicine, MRI, DMSA, and CAT scans.

TREATMENT:-Urinary tract infection can be treated with oral antibiotics or antibacterial drugs. The type of drug and the treatment duration depends upon the patient's history and the urine tests that identify the harmful bacteria. Oral antibiotics include trimethoprim, cephalosporin, tetracycline or amoxicillin; nitrofurantoin can be given to the patient, but under the doctor's supervision. Intake of pain-relieving medication will also relieve the patient from pain and discomfort.

PREVENTION:-Preventive antibiotics ,Water ,Cranberry juice ,Vitamin C supplements ,Avoid resisting the urge to urinate ,Avoid feminine hygiene sprays ,Avoid scented douches ,Breastfeeding can reduce the risk of UTIs in infants.