Bladder infection

Pelvis | Urology | Bladder infection (Disease)


Description

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that affects part of the urinary tract. Although any part of the urinary system can become infected, usually infections occur mostly in the lower urinary tract represented by the bladder and the urethra. Women have an increase risk of a urinary tract infection than men.

Urinary tract infections dont always cause signs and symptoms, but when they do they can include: a strong, persistent urge to urinate; a burning sensation when urinating; passing frequent, small amounts of urine; urine that appears cloudy; urine that appears bright pink or cola colored meaning a sign of blood in the urine; strong-smelling urine; pelvic pain, in women and rectal pain, in men.

Causes and Risk factors

The main cause of urinary tract infection is infection of the bladder named cystitis, usually caused by Escherichia coli. Urinary tract infections due to Staphylococcus aureus typically occurs secondary to blood born infections. Infection of the urethra (urethritis) can occur when gastrointestinal bacteria spread from the anus to the urethra.

In addition, because of the female urethras proximity to the vagina, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as herpes, gonorrhea and chlamydia, also are possible causes of urethritis.

Diagnosis and Treatment

When treated promptly and properly, urinary tract infections rarely lead to complications. Untreated urinary tract infections can lead to acute or chronic kidney infections (pyelonephritis). In straightforward cases, a diagnosis may be made and treatment given based on symptoms alone without further laboratory confirmation. Antibiotics are typically used to treat urinary tract infections. ...