These infectioUrinary Tract infections (UTIs) are caused by bacteria in one’s excrement that enters the urinary tract.ns can affect different parts of the tract causing cystysis to the bladder, urthritis to the urethra and one might also get kidney infections
According to the National Health Service (NHS), women are at higher risk of contracting UTIs.
“They have a shorter urethra than men,” the NHS report says adding that bacteria can easily reach their bladder or kidneys and cause an infection.
NHS is the publicly funded national healthcare system for England.
It lists four situations that can increase risk:
- Pregnancy
- Conditions blocking the urinary tracts
- Weak immune system
- Conditions that prevent one from fully draining their bladders such as constipation in children and enlargement of the prostrate in men.
In the event that one contracts a UTI, here are the symptoms to look out for:
- A sudden urge to relieve oneself or a high frequency in the need to do the same.
- Pain in the lower abdomen
- A burning sensation when relieving yourself
- Older people may experience confusion or agitation
- Blood in your excrement.
These infections however can be treated.
According to the NHS, doctors will prescribe antibiotics and the symptoms will begin to clear up within 2-5 days depending on whether you are a child or an adult.
If your condition is persistent, antibiotics will still be used with the dosage extended for a longer period of time.
NHS also suggests taking home remedies such as lot of fluids, enough rest and placing a hot water bottle on your tummy or back to ease the pain.
