UTI
A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is an infection usually caused by bacteria from faeces (your poo) entering the urinary tract. The bacteria enter through the tube (urethra) that carries urine out of the body. Women are more likely to have UTIs as they have a shorter urethra than men, so bacteria are more likely to reach the bladder or kidneys to cause an infection.
If you are a female and think you have a UTI, visit us as we may be able to offer treatment without the need for you to book a GP appointment. Men, children, pregnant women and older people (men and women) should visit their GP straight away if a UTI is suspected.
What are the symptoms of a UTI?
UTIs can cause a variety of symptoms, which can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms of a UTI include:
- Frequent urination: If you have a UTI, you will feel the sensation to pass urine more frequently than normal, especially at night.
- Painful urination: A burning or stinging sensation during urination.
- Lower abdominal discomfort or back pain: people with a UTI may experience a persistent, dull ache or pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvis, or back pain, particularly if the infection has travelled to the kidneys
- Cloudy or bloody urine: Your urine may appear cloudy, dark, bloody or have a strong odour. This is due to the presence of blood, pus, or bacteria in the urinary tract.
- Fever: If the infection has progressed to the kidneys, it may result in fever or chills.
- Incontinence or bed wetting, particularly in the elderly and children
- Change in mental state (in the elderly): In elderly individuals, UTIs can sometimes cause confusion or changes in mental awareness.
The most common causes of urinary tract infections (UTI) are:
Bacteria, typically E.coli, that enter the urinary tract and multiply. There are various factors and behaviours that can increase the risk of developing a UTI. These include:
- Sexual activity: Sexual activity can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract. Women are more susceptible to UTIs after sexual intercourse.
- Incomplete emptying of the bladder: If the bladder is not fully emptied, it can create an environment where bacteria can multiply.
- Urinary catheters: The use of urinary catheters can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract and increase the chance of infection.
- Obstructions: Anything that obstructs the flow of urine can increase the risk of developing a UTI. This may include conditions like kidney stones.
- Diabetes: People with diabetes are more prone to UTIs, as high blood sugar levels can promote the growth of bacteria in the urinary tract.
- Age and gender: Women are more likely to develop UTIs than men because the urethra in women is short and closer to the anus. As we get older, the lining of the urethra becomes less able to resist infection and risks of UTI increase in men due to prostate enlargement which may cause incomplete bladder emptying
- Pregnancy: Changes in the urinary tract during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing a UTI.
- Menopause: Hormonal changes during menopause can affect the urinary tract lining, making it more susceptible to infections.
How to prevent UTIs
- Wipe from front to back when going to the toilet.
- Keep your genital area clean and dry.
- Drink plenty of fluids especially water
- Wash the skin around the vagina with water before and after sex.
- Pass urine as soon as possible after sex.
- Promptly change nappies or incontinence pads if they are soiled.
- Do not use scented soap.
- Do not hold your urine in – go when you have the urge.
- Do not wear tight synthetic underwear like nylon.
- Do not drink large volumes of alcohol as that can irritate your bladder.
- Do not have large amounts of sugary food or drinks as they encourage an environment for bacteria growth.