The most common bacteria cause of a urinary tract infection is E. coli. Other organisms involved include Staphylococcus, Chlamydia, Proteus, Klebsiella, and Herpes.
Risk factors include:
1. Female gender due to anatomy (shorter urethra)
2. Being sexually active
3. Men with enlarged prostates
4. Blockage in the urinary system such as a stone
5. Pregnancy
6. Catheters
7. Co-morbid conditions that decrease immune function such as diabetes and HIV
8. Diaphragm use
9. Vesicoureteral reflux
10. Neurogenic Bladder Dysfunction
11. Advanced age
Signs and Symptoms include:
1. Pain on urination (dysuria)
2. Urinary frequency
3. Blood in the urine (hematuria)
4. Urinary urgency
5. Foul smelling urine
6. Passing small amounts of urine frequently
Diagnostic tests for an uncomplicated UTI include a urinalysis and urine culture. Typically, tests are not necessary to treat for uncomplicated UTI's.
Treatment includes:
1. Antibiotics such as Bactrim, Ciprofloxacin, Nitrofurantoin, etc...
2. Good hygiene and proper wiping from front to back
3. Removing diaphragm and utilizing an alternative form of birth control
4. Drinking plenty of fluids
5. Avoiding coffee, alcohol, spicy foods
6. Stop smoking!
7. Analgesic to help with pain (Pyridium)
8. Heating pad for pain relief
There are different guidelines for the management of UTI's in children. It depends on the sex, age, and the frequency of the infections. In some cases, an ultrasound of the kidneys is necessary to evaluate pediatric UTI's.
Recurrent infections will need further evaluation and prophylactic treatment.
Preventative measures include:
1. Drink plenty of water
2. Urinate when you feel the need; don't resist the urge to urinate.
3. Wipe from front to back
4. Take showers instead of baths
5. Cleanse the genital area before sexual intercourse
6. Avoid using feminine hygiene sprays and douches
7. Drink cranberry juice
Talk to your health care professional for more information. Thank you and have a nice day!
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