Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) – SP Medifort Hospital

Urinary Tract Infection Treatment

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Treatment In Trivandrum

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection of any part of the urinary system, including the bladder, urethra, ureters, or kidneys. It occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply. UTIs are common and usually respond well to treatment, but delayed care can lead to serious complications.

Symptoms and Causes

What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection?

UTI symptoms may vary depending on the affected area and include:

Burning sensation during urination
Frequent or urgent need to urinate.
Back pain
Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine.
Lower abdominal or pelvic pain.
Fever or chills.

What are the different types of urinary tract infections?

Urinary tract infections are classified based on the part of the urinary system affected:

Cystitis (Bladder Infection): An infection of the bladder that commonly causes frequent urination, a burning sensation while urinating, and lower abdominal discomfort.
Urethritis: Infection of the urethra, leading to pain or burning during urination and sometimes abnormal discharge.
Pyelonephritis (Kidney Infection): A serious type of UTI involving the kidneys, often accompanied by high fever, back or flank pain, nausea, and chills, requiring urgent medical care.
Ureter Infection: Infection affecting the ureters, typically occurring as an extension of bladder or kidney infection.

What causes urinary tract infections?

Uremia develops when the kidneys fail to eliminate waste due to:

Bacterial Entry into the Urinary Tract: UTIs develop when bacteria enter through the urethra and multiply in the bladder after the body’s natural defenses fail.
Bladder Infection (Cystitis): The most common type of UTI, usually caused by E. coli bacteria that normally live in the digestive tract.
Urethral Infection (Urethritis): Occurs when bacteria from the bowel spread to the urethra or due to sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea or chlamydia.
Recurrent UTIs: Defined as two or more infections within six months or three or more in a year; more commonly seen in women.

Diagnosis of urinary tract infection

UTI diagnosis uses tests to confirm infection, identify bacteria, and detect complications.

Urine Tests: A urine sample is examined to identify bacteria, white blood cells, or blood, which are common signs of a urinary tract infection.
Urine Culture: This test confirms the diagnosis by identifying the specific bacteria responsible for the infection and helps determine the most appropriate antibiotic treatment.
Imaging Tests: Imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans may be recommended in cases of recurrent or complicated UTIs to detect structural problems, blockages, or kidney involvement.

What are the urinary tract infection risk factors?

UTIs are more likely to occur in individuals with certain anatomical, lifestyle, or medical conditions that increase bacterial exposure or reduce urinary tract defenses.

Female Anatomy: Women have a shorter urethra, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.
Sexual Activity: Sexual intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract.
Poor Hygiene: Inadequate cleaning after urination or bowel movements increases infection risk.
Urinary Tract Obstructions: Kidney stones, an enlarged prostate, or structural abnormalities can prevent complete bladder emptying.
Diabetes or Weakened Immunity: High blood sugar and reduced immune function make it harder for the body to fight infections.
Use of Catheters: Indwelling catheters can introduce bacteria directly into the urinary tract.
Recurrent UTIs: A history of previous infections increases the likelihood of future infections.

What treatment options are available for urinary tract infections?

Treatment of UTIs focuses on eliminating the infection, relieving symptoms, and preventing complications:

Antibiotics: The primary treatment for UTIs, antibiotics target the bacteria causing the infection. The choice of antibiotic and duration of treatment depend on the type of bacteria, severity of infection, and whether it is a recurrent or complicated UTI. Completing the full course is crucial to prevent relapse or antibiotic resistance.

Pain Relief Medications: Medications such as analgesics or urinary tract-specific pain relievers help reduce burning sensations, discomfort, and inflammation during urination, improving patient comfort while antibiotics work to clear the infection.

Increased Fluid Intake: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out bacteria from the urinary tract, dilute urine, and reduce irritation. supporting faster recovery.

Hospital Care: Severe UTIs, especially those affecting the kidneys or causing systemic symptoms like high fever, dehydration, or sepsis, may require hospitalization. In such cases, intravenous antibiotics, fluid therapy, and close monitoring are provided to manage the infection safely.