Getting a urinary tract infection (UTI) can be a scary thing. The infection is most commonly found in women, but it can happen to men as well. In fact, women have a higher risk of getting UTIs than men, and the risk increases with age. It can be quite painful, so you should seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of a UTI include burning when urinating, blood in the urine, and an urgency to urinate. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the kidneys. There are several different types of urinary tract infections, and each is caused by a different bacteria.
The female urethra is shorter than the male urethra, so the bacteria that cause a UTI have a shorter distance to travel to the bladder. This makes it easier for bacteria to get started. If you have a UTI, you should empty your bladder regularly to remove the bacteria. You should also drink a lot of fluids to flush out the bacteria.
Women have a higher risk of getting a UTI after they have been sexually active. They should clean their anus before sex, and clean their anus after each bowel movement. They should also use separate toilet paper for their front and back. They should also wear cotton underwear during the day.
UTIs can be treated with antibiotics. These antibiotics will kill the bacteria in your urinary tract and prevent them from growing. They may be prescribed for a short period of time or for a long period of time. When you are taking antibiotics, you can ask your health care provider to perform a urine test to check for bacteria. You can also ask to have a culture taken, which will tell you what type of bacteria are present in your urine. You can use this test to determine whether you need to start treatment right away or wait a few days to see if the infection goes away on its own.
Women are also at higher risk for UTIs if they have diabetes or a weak immune system. They should also consult a health care provider if they experience symptoms such as vomiting or chills. It is important to see a health care provider immediately if you have a fever and other symptoms of a UTI. This is also a good time to discuss your birth control options. If you are pregnant, you may need to take antibiotics for a longer period of time.
Getting a UTI can also be a symptom of other conditions, such as cystitis or interstitial cystitis. In addition, if you have an injury to the spinal cord, it can affect the flow of urine. You should also consider undergoing a CT scan or an ultrasound. These tests can provide images of the urinary tract, and are used to determine if you have a kidney problem. You may also need pain medication and a heating pad to relieve the pain of a UTI.