UTIs or urinary tract infections are the ones that occur in any part of the urinary tract. The urinary tract consists of;
● Two kidneys- that filter out waste and toxins from your body in the form of urine
● Two ureters- arising from each kidney. They carry the urine that the kidneys produce to the urinary bladder.
● Urinary bladder- a hollow, expandable organ up to some extent that holds urine for some time.
● Urethra- a tube that carries urine outside of your body
There is a difference between the anatomy of the female and a male urinary tract. But the organs are similar. Urinary tract infections are quite common amongst women as compared to men. We will discuss the reasons for it in this article. If you have a complaint of recurrent urinary tract infections, you should visit a nephrologist in Lahore.
What are the Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection?
Sometimes the urinary tract infection may not cause any such symptoms. But sometimes, it may become bothersome. The signs and symptoms of a urinary tract infection are;
● Burning sensation while you urinate
● Cloudiness in urine
● Blood in urine
● Pain while urinating
● Pus cells in urine
A urinary tract infection, if not given prompt treatment, can lead to further symptoms such as;
● Fast heart rate
● Fever
● Chills and sweating
● Dizziness
● Fatigue
Why is UTI Common in Females?
Females are more prone to urinary tract infections as compared to men. It can happen because;
Sexually active
A sexually active female is at more risk of urinary tract infections as compared to the one who is not. It happens because, during sex, the insertion of the penis may push the germs upwards towards your bladder, which eventually increases the chances of UTIs. Therefore it is recommended to urinate right after sex.
Being Pregnant
During pregnancy, hormonal changes in the body of a female may make them prone to urinary tract infections. Moreover, they can not empty her bladder completely when the weight and pressure of the baby exert over the bladder. Therefore some urine is left in the urinary bladder, where germs can replicate.
Menopause
Women who have got menopause are at increased risk of urinary tract infections. It happens because their estrogen levels decline, which causes drying out of vaginal tissues that used to serve as a protection from germs. After menopause, the germs can enter your urinary bladder more easily as they used to be.
Anatomy
The urinary tract anatomy of the female is different from males. Females have a shorter urethra, through which the germs can enter and reside in the urinary bladder. Whereas men have a large urethra which makes it difficult for the germs to enter, hence giving them slight extra protection against urinary tract infections.
Moreover, due to the difference in the anatomy of the genital region, females have anus located close to the urethra. Some bacteria that are healthy for your gastro-intestinal tract can enter the urethra when they wipe after using the toilet. Those bacteria can cause infection and its symptoms when they enter the urinary tract. Therefore it is essential to keep in mind to wipe from front to back, not from back to front.
Conclusion
Urinary tract infections can be painful, and if left untreated, they can become life-threatening. Moreover, make sure you complete the antibiotic course that your healthcare provider prescribes you. Do not leave the medications in between when you start to feel better as it can lead to antibiotic resistance. If you have any signs and symptoms of urinary tract infections, visit a nephrologist in Karachi.