What is a UTI?
Your urinary system frequently contracts an infection called a urinary traction infection (UTI). Any component of your urinary system, including the urethra, ureters, bladder, and kidneys, might be affected by a UTI. Common symptoms include the desire to urinate frequently, pain during urination, and side or lower back pain. Antibiotics can be used to treat the majority of UTIs. Please see our Urology area for more information.
Risk Factors of a UTI
Some people are more likely to develop a UTI. Due to their shorter and proximity to the rectum, females are more likely to develop UTIs. As a result, bacteria can enter the urinary tract more easily. Here are the potential risk factors of a UTI:
- A previous UTI
- Sexual activity
- Changes in the bacteria that live inside the vagina, or vaginal flora. For example, menopause or the use of spermicides can cause these bacterial changes.
- Pregnancy
- Age (older adults and young children are more likely to get UTIs)
- Structural problems in the urinary tract, such as enlarged prostate
- Poor hygiene, for example, in children who are potty-training
How do I get a UTI?
Microorganisms, mostly bacteria, that enter the urethra and bladder and produce inflammation and infection are what cause urinary tract infections. Although urethral and bladder infections are the most frequent locations for UTIs, germs can also move up the ureters and infect your kidneys. Find out more with Onyx Clinical.
E. coli, a bacterium typically found in the intestines, is responsible for more than 90% of instances of bladder infection (cystitis).
What Causes a UTI?
E. coli is the bacteria that most frequently results in UTIs. Some UTIs are fungus-related, in which case the Candida fungus is typically to blame. Though uncommon, viral UTIs are possible.
Since the urethra is exposed to the environment, bacteria and other germs can enter the urethra and move up the urinary system to the bladder.
A bladder infection may cause the following symptoms:
- A constant urge to pee
- A painful, burning sensation when urinating
- Peeing only small amounts of urine at a time
- Bloody or cloudy urine
- Pressure or discomfort in the pelvis
- Low fever
Can you get a UTI from having sex?
Particularly for women, who frequently get UTIs more frequently than males, sexual activity is a great environment for germs to enter the urethra. Sexual action can physically transfer bacteria into the urethra. In fact, research indicates that having sex more frequently increases the risk of UTIs. Since the urethra immediately connects to the bladder, if the bacteria continue to move up the urinary canal, they will first get to the bladder.
However, sex is not the only method that bacteria and other organisms can reach the urinary tract. Let’s talk about some additional potential UTI reasons.
UTI and Clinical Research with Onyx Clinical
Do you have anymore questions about UTI research? We are currently offering Clinical Trials in our Peoria, AZ and Flint, MI locations. Onyx Clinical is specializing in this study to create more information regarding UTI Clinical Research.
