A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a condition that can be caused due to microbes. UTI-causing organisms are too small to be seen without a microscope. While UTIs are mostly caused by bacterial infection, some are even caused by fungi and certain viruses.

A UTI can occur anywhere in the urinary tract. The urinary tract comprises the kidneys, bladder, and urethra. Most UTIs impact only the urethra and bladder in the lower tract. However, UTIs can involve the ureters and kidneys even in the upper tract. Although upper tract UTIs are rarer than lower tract UTIs, they’re also more severe.

Symptoms
Urinary tract infections don’t always generate symptoms, but when they do, they can harm the lower or the upper urinary tract. Some of the signs and symptoms of a UTI have been stated below:

• A continuous urge to urinate
• Burning sensation or pain while urinating
• Passing small amounts of urine frequently
• Pelvic pain in women
• Cloudy urine
• Pink, red urine
• Strong-smelling urine

The most common symptom of UTI in children is a fever. Similarly, in the elderly, the symptoms can be often vague and undefined such as fatigue or incontinence.

Common causes and risk factors

• The female anatomy places a woman at a higher risk due to the shorter distance from the opening of the urethra to the bladder
• Women who are sexually active are at a higher risk
• Spermicidal lubricants can result in genital inflammation
• An enlarged prostate or kidney stones can hinder the flow of urine and permit bacteria to cause an infection in the bladder
• Diabetes can raise urine glucose level which can increase the risk of developing a UTI
• Menopause can cause an imbalance in the protective flora in the vagina
• Catheters can cause infection due to non-sterile or prolonged non-hygienic use
• Douching, tampons, and feminine deodorants may cause a bacterial infection
• Potty training can also be a cause of UTIs

Treatment options for a UTI
UTIs can easily be treated and taking a few precautions can help prevent the infection easily. Antibiotics, recommended by doctors, are the first line of treatment for urinary tract infections. If one has been treated for a UTI in the past, the doctor may recommend a different antibiotic.

Ways to prevent UTIs
There are many steps one can take to reduce the risk of getting a UTI:

• Drink plenty of water every day and other liquids to help flush out bacteria
• Urinate frequently or about every two to three hours even if one is busy at work
• For women, it is very important to wipe from front to back after urinating
• Urinate before and soon after having sexual intercourse as it decreases the possibility of an infection
• Avoid synthetic underwear, tight pants, non-cotton outfits, and lingering in wet gym clothes or a bathing suit as these habits can upsurge the spread of bacteria
• Avoid vaginal deodorants, douches, powders, and other irritants
• Drink unsweetened cranberry juice and other juices to increase the vitamin C levels in the body.