Stay UTI-Free: Essential Hygiene and Lifestyle Tips
A urinary tract infection is an infection that affects any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. UTIs are common infections that happen when bacteria, often from the skin or rectum, enter the urethra, and infect the urinary tract . The infections can affect several parts of the urinary tract, but the most common type is a bladder infection (cystitis). Kidney infection (pyelonephritis) is another type of UTI . Symptoms Frequent urge to urinate Burning sensation during urination Cloudy or strong-smelling urine Pelvic pain (in women) Lower back pain Fever and chills (if the infection reaches the kidneys) Causes Bacteria: Most commonly caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli) . Sexual activity: Can increase the risk, especially in women. Certain contraceptives: Such as diaphragms or spermicides. Urinary tract abnormalities: Such as blockages or kidney stones. Diagnosis and Treatment Diagnosis: Typically involves a urine test to identify the pres...