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Could Your Frequent Urge to Pee Be a Sign of a UTI?
Published: Jan 26, 2024
Understanding urinary tract infections (UTIs) is crucial since they are common and can affect anyone. We break down what you need to know about UTIs, including symptoms, causes, and when to see a doctor.
What is a UTI?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of your urinary system, which includes your kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract, the bladder, and the urethra. UTIs are more common in women, and they can cause a range of symptoms from mild discomfort to severe pain and complications if not treated promptly.
Common Symptoms
Typical symptoms of a UTI include a strong, persistent urge to urinate, a burning sensation when urinating, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine. Some people may also experience pelvic pain, especially in women, and in more severe cases, fever or chills may occur, indicating a more serious infection like a kidney infection.
Who is at Risk?
While anyone can get a UTI, certain factors can increase your risk. These include being female, as women have shorter urethras, which speeds up bacterial travel to the bladder. Sexual activity, certain types of birth control, menopause, and urinary tract abnormalities are also risk factors. In men, prostate problems can increase the risk of UTIs.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common cause of UTIs is bacteria, especially E. coli, entering the urinary tract.
While some mild UTIs may resolve without treatment, antibiotics are often necessary to prevent complications.
UTIs are not contagious but can be influenced by sexual activity or hygiene practices.
Drinking plenty of water, urinating after sexual intercourse, and maintaining good hygiene can help prevent UTIs.
Key Takeaways
Understanding the symptoms and causes of UTIs can help you seek the right treatment and prevent future infections.
References
- Stamm WE, Wagner KF, Amsel R, et al. Causes of the acute urethral syndrome in women. N Engl J Med 1980; 303:409.
- Baerheim A, Digranes A, Hunskaar S. Evaluation of urine sampling technique: bacterial contamination of samples from women students. Br J Gen Pract 1992; 42:241.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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