Urinary infections are one of the most common medical consultations, especially among women. Many have already heard of them or have suffered an episode, but what makes them so common? Pilar Luque, urologist at the Hospital Clínic Barcelona, explains that “up to 60% of women will suffer at least one episode of urinary infection throughout their lives.” This information highlights the importance of knowing how to prevent, treat and manage this condition.
Causes and characteristics
A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria invade the urinary tract, which includes the kidneys, bladder, and urethra. Women are more prone to these infections due to their anatomy: their urethra is shorter, which makes it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder. Factors such as sexual relations, menopause or the use of certain intimate hygiene products increase the risk. In men, problems such as prostatic hyperplasia or the use of urinary catheters can trigger these infections.
Other risk factors include a weakened immune system, urine residue in the bladder after urination, and alterations in the intestinal or vaginal microbiota. People with chronic diseases or undergoing treatments that affect their immune system are also more vulnerable to these infections.
Up to 60% of women will suffer at least one episode of urinary tract infection throughout their lives.
Symptoms, complications and diagnosis
Symptoms vary depending on the affected area, and include discomfort when urinating, high fever, and lower back pain. The most common are pain or discomfort when urinating and a constant feeling of urgency to go to the bathroom, even if you have barely urinated. It is also common to feel pain in the lower abdomen. In more severe cases, when the infection ascends to the kidneys, pyelonephritis may develop, an inflammation of the kidney that manifests itself with high fever, chills and lower back pain. These situations require immediate medical attention to avoid serious complications such as sepsis, a widespread infection that can be life-threatening.
It is essential to avoid self-medication and follow treatment guidelines to the letter.
To diagnose a urinary infection, a urine analysis is performed to detect the presence of bacteria, as well as an antibiogram to determine the most appropriate treatment. Dr. Luque insists that “it is essential to avoid self-medication and follow the treatment guidelines to the letter.” Failure to do so can lead to the appearance of bacterial resistance and make treatment difficult in the future.
Prevention and treatment
Preventing a urinary tract infection can be as simple as adopting healthy habits. Maintaining good hydration – at least between one and a half and two liters of water a day – helps eliminate bacteria from the urinary tract. It is also advisable to urinate after sexual intercourse to reduce the risk of infection and avoid irritating products in the genital area, such as aggressive intimate gels.
A balanced diet is the key to prevention. Consuming fruits and vegetables with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties promotes the health of the urinary tract. It is also crucial to avoid constipation, as the buildup of bacteria in the intestine can facilitate infections.
Most of these infections resolve with the first antibiotic if the indicated guidelines are followed well.
The most common treatment consists of antibiotics specific for the causative bacteria. “Most of these infections resolve with the first antibiotic if followed correctly.”
the indicated guidelines,” says Dr. Luque. In cases of recurrent infections, daily habits and medical monitoring are key. Maintaining good hygiene, adopting a proper diet and avoiding self-medication are essential measures to prevent and treat this condition, which, although common, should not be taken lightly.
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