UTI - What To Watch Out For!

UTI is an infection that occurs in the urinary tract. It is more common in males than in females and it occurs in both the sexes contrary to popular belief. It usually is the work of a bacterium known as E.coli (Escherichia coli) although other bacterium and fungi may also be responsible for the same, very rarely do they actually cause it. UTI is not a sexually transmitted disease (STD) but it can pose a risk factor during sexual intercourse. So you need to be careful.

Since UTI is caused by a bacteria you can catch it from a number of sources. People who live in unhygienic conditions, lower income groups and the like are more prone to contracting UTI. UTI can cause a number of complications depending on the kind of infection you contract. It can affect the kidneys, which is the upper urinary tract, resulting in pyelonephritis as well as the bladder, the lower urinary tract resulting in cystitis. The simplest of UTI can be handled using a range of antibiotics but it can get further aggravated at which point it needs to be treated with intravenous antibiotics. There is a fair chance of mortality stemming from this disease and the lack of awareness about how it is caused does not help either. Thus, here is a quick guide to the causes of UTI that you can and should keep an eye out for:

1. Constipation: Constipation makes it very easy for bacteria cultures to develop in your bladder. Since you cannot empty your body of the toxins as it does when you defecate, there is enough time and place for the bacteria to multiply and cause UTI. On the other hand, diarrhoea or faecal incontinence increase your chances of contracting UTI as the bacterium from the stool can stay stuck to your vagina and urethra. Be careful to wash up well after a bowel movement.
2. Dehydration: Water helps in eliminating the body harmful toxins from the body that might cause infections and such. If you do not drink enough water and stay hydrated then your body becomes a breeding ground for bacteria that can cause UTI. Not drinking enough water can also lead to kidney stones which in turn stop your urine flow and nurture bacteria growth.
3. Birth control and feminine hygiene products: The use of contraception and feminine hygiene products during menstruation like tampons and sanitary napkins can lead to UTI if not carefully monitored. Frequently changing your birth control is not advised as it can cause hormonal changes and affect the normal bacteria in your vagina. On the other hand, change your tampons as frequently as possible so as not to harbour bacteria growth.