What are the complications of a UTI?

What is a UTI?

Before understanding what are the complications of a UTI, it is important to understand what a UTI is. Urinary tracts sometimes become infected due to bacterial infections. This UTI infection occurs in the urinary system, which includes the bladder, kidneys, and urethra. Millions of people around the world are affected by it, as it is the most common type of infection. A common cause of this infection is Escherichia E. coli bacteria. These bacteria enter the urinary tract and cause infection and inflammation.

This Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) affects people of all ages and genders. But according to the survey, women are more affected by UTI than men. There are two main reasons for this. One is the hormonal changes in women and the other is the shortening of their urethra. If we talk about the common symptoms of UTI, it includes, strong smelling urine, burning sensation while urinating, frequent urination or abdominal pain. The complications of a UTI cannot be taken lightly, as doing so can lead to serious complications such as kidney damage and sepsis.

8 Main causes of UTIs.

A UTI can have various causes. We can control or reduce its chances with a little attention. Following are some important reasons for complications of a UTI which are very important to mention.

Bacteria: Escherichia (E. coli) bacteria is considered to be the main cause of this infection. According to experts, eighty to ninety percent of UTI cases occur due to this reason.
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause, and menstruation also increase the chance of developing a UTI.
Poor Hygiene: Not washing the genitals properly after urinating, using scented soaps, wearing the same underwear for days on end, or not urinating after sex.
Sexual Activity: Sometimes the bacteria are transferred from the genital area to the urinary tract due to sexual intercourse.
Urinary Tract Abnormalities: Some abnormalities such as a narrow urethra, bladder stones, or an enlarged prostate can also cause complications of a UTI.
Catheter Use: Catheter use can also sometimes cause complications of a UTI by introducing bacteria into the urinary tract.
Weakened Immune System:People who are suffering from HIV/AIDS or whose immunity is weak. These people are more prone to UTI.
Family History: Having a family history of UTI can also predispose a person to develop the complications of a UTI.

Can UTI cause bloating?

A common symptom: Yes, bloating is a common symptom of UTI. The main causes of bloating are digestive problems, hormonal changes, pressure on the abdomen and irritation in the surrounding tissues. If we talk about its symptoms, you feel pressure and fullness in your pelvic area, bloating and abdominal pain. If you want to reduce its effects, you should stay hydrated, urinate regularly and keep your body parts clean.

Can boric acid cause UTI?

A potential connection: Boric acid used in vaginal suppositories and douches can play a major role in the development of UTIs through the urinary tract. Boric acid has antibacterial and antifungal properties, but it can also disrupt the natural balance of vaginal flora. This deterioration can lead to the growth of bacteria that can migrate into the urinary tract and cause infection. Furthermore, boric acid can cause irritation in the urine, which increases the risk of urinary tract infections. We need to do more research to understand the relationship between boric acid and UTI.

Can a UTI cause BV?

A connected Risk: Urinary tract infection and BV are both conditions that cause problems in the genitourinary system. These two are separate phenomena, but a few investigations prove that there is a complex relationship between them. According to experts, women who complain of BV are more likely to develop UTI. Similarly, women who suffer from UTI can also easily suffer from BV. It is characterized by an imbalance of vaginal flora characterized by an increase in pathogenic bacteria and a decrease in beneficial lactobacilli. This imbalance increases the chances of UTIs, mainly because these altered intestinal microbiota help bacteria to reach the bladder through the intestine. Additionally, UTIs can disrupt the vaginal microbion, which plays an important role in the development of BV. This disruption of the Vaginal microbion is caused by the inflammation and immune response caused by a UTI.

How to treat BV and UTI together?

By following a comprehensive strategy, you can significantly prevent both BV and UTI. Follow some basic and important points like keep yourself hydrated, urinate after intercourse, and take good care of your hygiene. Additionally, consider probiotics to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, avoid tight clothing, avoid perfumed products, and follow your doctor’s instructions to minimize the effects.

Does a UTI effect periods?

UTIs do not directly cause menstrual disturbances, but they can contribute to disturbances through various factors. Hormonal changes caused by infection can cause changes in flow, menstrual irregularities and increased pain. Induced inflammation can cause the lining of the uterus to become irritated, resulting in heavier or lighter menstrual periostitis affect estrogen and progesterone levels mainly due to the triggering of hormonal changes. As a result, they cannot regulate the menstrual cycle properly.

When to go to ER for UTI?

Many UTIs are treated with antibiotics, but sometimes you need immediate medical attention. You should go to the emergency room (ER) immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

Difficulty starting or stopping urination: Loss of bladder control, which causes difficulty holding urine.
Blood in urine: Urine appearing the color of coffee grounds, or blood in the urine.
Severe symptoms: Feeling chills, severe abdominal pain, and a high fever that can reach 103 F° or sometimes even higher.
Vomiting: Not being able to keep any fluid in for long and suffering from dehydration.
Severe flank pain: Severe pain under ribs, sides of body and back.
Foul-smelling urine: A foul odor in the urine that is unbearable and bothers you.
No improvement with antibiotics: If you don’t feel better after two to three days of antibiotics, you should go to the ER right away.
Symptoms in vulnerable populations: Infants, pregnant women, or people with weakened immune systems should go to the ER immediately if they complain of a UTI.
Underlying medical conditions: If you are diabetic or suffering from any kidney disease then you should consult a doctor in such symptoms. So that there are no complications for you.
Kidney stone symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, or severe pain may indicate gallstones. In such a situation it is very important to consult a doctor immediately.

Can lube cause UTI?

This is absolutely true. Some lubricants can cause the complications of a UTI and increase the chances of it happening. Especially lubricants that contain glycerin, colors or fragrances. Oil-based lubricants and water-based lubricants combine with glycerin to disrupt the natural balance of bacteria. Which increases the chances of UTI.

Can you have thrush and UTI at the same time?

Sometimes thrush and UTI happen at the same time. The main reasons are the use of antibiotics, hormonal changes and weak immune system. It requires physical attention. Antibiotics and antifungal drugs are usually prescribed.

Stay Informed, Stay Healthy.

Different people experience these symptoms and effects in varying degrees, and in different ways. So contact your doctor without ignoring any such symptoms and make sure to follow his instructions.

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https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/urinary-tract-infections