Urinary Tract Infections UTIs

Overview

Urinary tract infection is condition where the infection is primarily through the urinary tract and usually it is an ascending type of infection. Where if it is left untreated, it can cause further complications like hydronephrosis

Signs and Symptoms

Painful, urgent need to urinate, pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen, bloating of the lower abdomen, increased urinary frequency

Common Causes

Cystitis, Urethritis

Risk Factors

Increase bacterial inoculation : sexual activity, urinary incontinence, constipation, Increase binding of uropathogenic bacteria : spermicide use, low estrogen, menopause, Decrease urine flow : dehydration, obstructed urinary tract, Increase bacterial growth : diabetes mellitus, immunosuppression, obstruction stones, pregnancy

Investigation Techniques

Full blood count, Urine culture,UFEME, Blood culture, Cystoscopy

Treatment and Prevention

Drink plenty of water, Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim), Fosfomycin (Monurol), Nitrofurantoin (Macrodantin), Cephalexin (Keflex), Ceftriaxone