A urinary tract infection (UTI) can make even simple things, like sitting through a meeting or getting a good night’s sleep, feel miserable. Burning when you pee, frequent trips to the bathroom, and pressure in your lower abdomen are some of the most common symptoms.
While anyone can get a UTI, some people are more likely to develop one than others. Here’s what you need to know.
What Causes a UTI?
A UTI develops when bacteria, usually from the digestive tract, enter the urinary tract and begin to multiply. Most infections stay in the bladder, but they can spread to the kidneys if they’re left untreated.
Anyone can get a UTI, but women are more likely to develop one because the urethra is shorter and closer to the rectum. That gives bacteria a shorter distance to travel before reaching the bladder. Although urination helps flush bacteria out of the urinary tract, some bacteria can remain and cause an infection.
Common UTI Triggers and Risk Factors
Several things can increase your risk of getting a UTI.
Sexual activity
For many women, UTIs develop after sexual activity because bacteria can be pushed into the urethra during sex. Although UTIs aren’t sexually transmitted infections (STIs), some STIs can cause similar urinary symptoms.
Certain birth control methods
Some birth control methods can also increase your risk. Spermicides can change the normal balance of bacteria around the vagina. A diaphragm can make it harder to empty the bladder completely.
Hormonal changes
As estrogen levels drop during perimenopause and menopause, the tissues and healthy bacteria around the vagina and urethra change. These changes make recurrent UTIs more common, and some women benefit from vaginal estrogen after menopause.
Problems emptying the bladder
When urine stays in the bladder instead of emptying completely, bacteria have more time to grow. This can happen because of:
- An enlarged prostate
- Kidney stones
- A narrowed urethra
- Bladder dysfunction
- Nerve damage
- Certain medications
Pregnancy
Pregnancy naturally increases the risk of UTIs. This is because hormonal changes and pressure from the growing uterus can slow urine flow. That makes it easier for bacteria to grow and, in some cases, spread to the kidneys.
Diabetes
Diabetes can increase the risk of UTIs, especially when blood sugar isn’t well controlled. Higher glucose levels make it easier for bacteria to grow.
Neurological conditions
Conditions such as multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries can make it harder to empty the bladder completely. This can allow bacteria to stay in the urinary tract longer.
Urinary catheters
Any time a catheter is placed in the bladder, bacteria have another way to enter the urinary tract. The longer a catheter stays in place, the greater the risk of infection.
Previous UTIs
Once you’ve had a UTI, you’re more likely to develop another one. While some people have only an occasional recurrence, others get frequent infections that need further evaluation.
When Should You Get Checked for a UTI?
Don’t ignore symptoms that could be caused by a UTI. Schedule an appointment if you experience:
- Burning or pain during urination
- A frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Passing only a small amount of urine
- Pressure or pain in the lower abdomen
- Blood in the urine
- Cloudy or unusually strong-smelling urine
Prompt evaluation is especially important for children, men, pregnant women, older adults, and people with diabetes, kidney disease, weakened immune systems, or urinary tract problems.
Seek medical care right away if you have:
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pain in your back or side
These symptoms can mean the infection has reached your kidneys, so it’s important to seek medical care right away.
What Causes a UTI? Early Treatment Can Help
Most UTIs are easy to treat when they’re diagnosed early, but waiting too long can allow the infection to spread to your kidneys. If you’re experiencing burning with urination, frequent trips to the bathroom, blood in your urine, or other symptoms of a UTI, don’t wait to get checked.
If you live in Charlotte, NC, Columbia, SC, or the surrounding areas, schedule an appointment with Carolina Urology Partners. Our experienced urologists can diagnose the cause of your symptoms and recommend the treatment that’s right for you.
