Burning when peeing, dark and strong-smelling urine, among other warnings, may be signs of a urinary tract infection. Learn to identify the signs.
Any problem with the urinary system is usually very uncomfortable, causing a lot of pain. One of the most common is Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), or urinary tract infection, as it is known.
An interesting fact about this problem is that women are 50 times more likely to develop this problem than men. To give you an idea, 30% of women will experience this problem at some point in their lives.
Causes of urinary tract infection
Urinary tract infections are caused by bacteria that enter the urinary system and develop in the bladder. If the urinary system’s defenses fail, these bacteria take over, become strong and, consequently, urinary infections occur. The risk factors are:
- Small urethra (in the case of women), reducing the path through which bacteria pass to reach the bladder;
- Active sex life;
- Some contraceptives;
- After menopause;
- Blockages in the urinary tract (example: kidney stones);
- Weak immune system;
- Use of a catheter to urinate.
Symptoms of urinary infection
It is necessary to emphasize that urinary infections do not always present symptoms initially. When they present themselves, they are:
- Strong burning when urinating;
- Strong need to urinate constantly;
- Dark urine;
- Urine accompanied by blood;
- Urine with a very strong smell;
- Pelvic pain;
- Pain in the rectum;
- Increased frequency of urination;
- Urinary incontinence.
Types of urinary infection
There are three types of urinary infection, which vary depending on where it occurs.
Cystitis
Cystitis is a bacterial infection that occurs in the bladder, most often caused by Escherichia coli, bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract. It is the most common among all.
Urethritis
Urethritis is an infection in the urethra, also caused by bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract. Some infections like herpes, gonorrhea and chlamydia infection can lead to urethritis.
Pyelonephritis
This kidney infection starts in the urethra, goes to the bladder and ends in the kidneys. It is the most dangerous, because if it is not treated, it can permanently damage your kidneys or end up in your bloodstream, which can kill you.
Doctor
If you experience the symptoms listed above, you should see a doctor immediately. He will find an ideal diagnosis for you, depending on the type of urinary infection that is attacking you. You can look for a gynecologist or a general practitioner, and of course, a urologist if you are a man.
Although it is uncomfortable, the right treatment is, most of the time, successful. Symptoms usually disappear within days of discovering the disease. Yes, urinary tract infections can be cured.
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Source: My Life
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