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As of the 2022 survey, India has a 33.5% occurrence rate of urinary tract infections, and it was observed that women are twice as likely to suffer urinary tract infections when compared to men. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common problem, especially in women. About 60% of women will experience at least one UTI in their lifetime, and up to 20% will have recurrent UTIs. Recurrent UTIs are defined as two or more UTIs in six months or three or more UTIs in a year.
Why do UTIs happen repeatedly?
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Bacterial Infection
The most common cause of UTIs is a bacterial infection. The bacteria that most commonly cause UTIs in women are Escherichia coli (E. coli), Staphylococcus saprophyticus, and Klebsiella pneumonia.
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Anatomy
Women are more likely to get UTIs than men because their urethra is shorter and closer to the anus. This makes it easier for bacteria to travel from the anus to the urethra and into the bladder.
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Menopause
Women who are going through menopause are more likely to get UTIs because their estrogen levels decline. Estrogen helps to keep the lining of the urethra healthy and resistant to infection.
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Diabetes
People with diabetes are more likely to get UTIs because they have high levels of sugar in their urine. This sugar provides a source of food for bacteria, which can lead to infection.
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Certain Medical Conditions
Other medical conditions that can increase the risk of UTIs include kidney stones, urinary tract obstructions, and bladder problems.
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Certain Medications
Some medications, such as steroids and chemotherapy drugs, can increase the risk of UTIs.
What are the urine infection symptoms?
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Painful or burning urination.
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Frequent urination
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Urgency to urinate.
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Blood in the urine
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Cloudy or foul-smelling urine.
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Lower back pain
If you or someone around you is experiencing the above symptoms or if you think you have a UTI, it is important to see the top urologists in Kharadi right away to get the best urinary tract infection treatments. UTIs can be easily treated with antibiotics, but if left untreated, they can lead to more serious complications, such as kidney infections.
Healthy ways to prevent UTI
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Drink Plenty of Fluids
Drinking plenty of fluids helps to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.
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Empty your Bladder Regularly
When you have the urge to urinate, go right away. Holding in urine for a prolonged duration can increase the risk of infection.
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Maintain Hygiene
Wipe from front to back after using the toilet - This helps to prevent bacteria from the anus from entering the urethra.
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Avoid Scented Soaps
Scented products when used around private body areas can irritate the urethra and make it more susceptible to infection.
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Take Vitamin Supplements
Vitamin supplements when taken regularly and as per doctor recommendations have been shown to help prevent UTIs by making it more difficult for bacteria to adhere to the walls of the urinary tract.
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Regular Health Checkups
If you are sexually active, it is important to have regular sexual health checkups. This includes getting tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which can increase the risk of UTIs. Even otherwise, going for annual health checkups is a good way to monitor and maintain health.
Manipal Hospitals Kharadi has some of the best urologists and gynecologists to help you with correct diagnosis and precision care. For all your queries about UTI and personal health, you can visit our expert doctors or book an online consultation.
