What is a UTI?
A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is an infection that can occur in any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. It is a collective term for infections that involve any part of the urinary tract and is one of the most common infections in primary care [1].
UTIs can range from simple bladder inflammation, known as cystitis, to severe cases of uroseptic shock. They can be distressing and even life-threatening, with both males (12%) and females (40%) having at least one symptomatic UTI throughout their lives [2].
UTIs can be classified into simple or complicated forms. Simple, uncomplicated cystitis responds very well to oral antibiotics, but complex UTIs may require early imaging, and referral to the emergency department or hospitalization to prevent urosepsis may be warranted [1].
Causes of UTIs
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are primarily caused by bacteria, with Escherichia coli being the most common culprit, accounting for 80-85% of acute episodes of uncomplicated cystitis [3, 4]. Other bacteria, such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Enterococcus faecalis, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus, can also cause UTIs [5].
Certain factors can increase the risk of UTIs. Women are more prone to UTIs than men due to their shorter urethra, which allows bacteria to enter the urinary tract more easily [6]. Other risk factors include frequent sexual activity, new sexual partners, certain types of birth control, menopause, a weakened immune system, urinary tract abnormalities, blockages in the urinary tract, such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate, and catheter use [6].
Prevention of UTIs
Preventing UTIs involves a combination of hygiene and lifestyle practices. One of the most important steps is to reduce the chance of bacteria invading your urinary tract. This can be achieved by urinating when you feel the need and not holding it in for long periods [7, 8].
Drinking adequate fluids, particularly water, is also crucial. Drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water daily is recommended [8]. This helps dilute your urine and ensures that you urinate more frequently, allowing bacteria to be flushed from your urinary tract before an infection can start. Keeping your genital area clean and dry can also help prevent UTIs [7].
In addition to these measures, some studies suggest that using probiotic vaginal suppositories can decrease the occurrence and recurrence of UTIs by changing the bacteria found in the vagina [7].
For those with recurrent UTIs, doctors may recommend taking preventive antibiotics after sex or in the long term [7].
Lastly, reducing unnecessary catheterization is crucial in preventing catheter-associated UTIs, which account for 40% of nosocomial infections [4, 9].
Treatment of UTIs
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are commonly treated with antibiotics. The type of antibiotic prescribed can vary according to the kind of bacteria causing the infection, your medical history, and whether or not your UTI is recurrent [10, 8, 8].
The form of antibiotic used to treat a bacterial UTI usually depends on which part of the tract is involved. Lower-tract UTIs can usually be treated with oral antibiotics, while upper-tract UTIs require intravenous antibiotics [8].
The duration of treatment typically lasts up to one week [8]. However, in the case of chronic UTIs, your doctor may prescribe long-term, low-dose antibiotics for more than one week after the initial symptoms subside [8].
In addition to antibiotics, various other methods help manage a UTI. Drinking plenty of water can help dilute your urine and flush out the bacteria in your urinary tract [8]. Vitamin C supplements can also help boost your immune system [10].
In some cases, non-antibiotic treatments for UTIs are being examined. These include herbal extracts, antibacterial strategies, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. However, the current evidence does not indicate a better alternative to antibiotics [11, 12, 13].
Can UTI make you tired?
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If you're feeling exhausted and suspect a UTI, seeking medical attention is essential. Your doctor can confirm the diagnosis with a urine test and prescribe appropriate treatment [14].