Dr. G. Sarath Babu, MD, (JIPMER) DM, (PGI, Chandigarh), Consultant Nephrologist and<br />
Transplant Physician, Vijaya Super Speciality Hospital, Vijayawada
The urinary tract is divided into two sections: lower and upper. The ureters (tubes that convey urine from the kidneys to the bladder) and kidneys make up the upper urinary tract (which filters the blood to produce urine). The urethra (the tube that transports urine from the bladder to the outside) and the bladder comprise the lower tract (which stores urine). Bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra and spreading to the bladder primarily cause UTIs. The urinary system is intended to keep germs out. However, the defenses do occasionally fail. When that happens, bacteria may take hold and grow into a full-blown infection in the urinary tract.
UTIs are a prevalent health issue that affects millions of individuals each year. These infections can occur anywhere in the urinary system. Women are more likely than males to have a UTI. An infection that is restricted to the bladder can be uncomfortable and irritating. However, if a UTI spreads to the kidneys, it can cause major health concerns.
Factors that Contribute to UTIs are:
Types of UTIs
Symptoms of UTIs
Diagnosis of UTIs
A UTI is frequently diagnosed based on symptoms such as discomfort with urination or frequent urine. If a urine test is positive for infection, it will reveal bacteria, white blood cells, red blood cells, and/or nitrites. To avoid contamination, a urine sample is obtained using the clean catch method. When urine is cultured in a laboratory, the bacteria may be identified, and the test can determine which medications will be helpful in treating the infection.
If UTIs become a repeated problem, other tests may be used to see if the urinary tract is normal. These tests may include:
Intravenous pyelogram (IVP): This procedure involves injecting a contrast dye into a vein. This is useful for detecting malignancies, structural problems, kidney stones, and obstructions. It also examines the blood flow in the kidneys.
Cystoscopy: This test involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a viewing device into the urethra to examine the bladder and other sections of the urinary tract. There may be structural alterations or obstructions, such as tumors or stones.
Kidney and bladder ultrasound: This test is used to detect the size and form of the bladder and kidneys, as well as to look for a tumor, kidney stone(s), cysts, or other obstructions or abnormalities.
Prevention of UTIs
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