URINARY TRACT INFECTION IN WOMEN

A urinary tract infection is an infection in the urinary tract. The urinary tract includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Any, or all, of these parts of the urinary tract can become infected.

Normally the urine does not have any bacteria or organisms in it. The bacteria that cause an infection usually come from the colon or vagina. The bacteria get into the opening of the urethra and start to multiply. As they multiply, an infection starts and the bacteria move into the bladder. If the infection is treated while it is in the bladder, it will stop there. However, if it is not treated, it can spread up the ureters to the kidneys. The ureters and kidneys normally keep the urine from backing up from the bladder into the kidneys. The urine coming from the bladder will often wash bacteria away.

Bacteria that cause urinary tract infections can easily get from the rectum to the urethra when a woman uses the toilet, especially if she wipes from the back to the front. Urinary tract infection is more common in women. Because the urethra is short, it makes it easier for bacteria to move up to the bladder and kidneys. An obstruction in the urinary tract, such as a stone, can keep the urine from getting to the bladder and lead to an infection. Urinary tract infection is more likely to occur in women who have diabetes or other disorders that affect the immune system. Many women seem to have more infections after sexual intercourse. As a woman gets older, it can be harder to empty the bladder completely. If the urine stays in the bladder, the few bacteria that get into the bladder can start growing and start an infection.

Sometimes there are no symptoms of a urinary tract infection. Usually, the symptoms include a frequent urge to urinate and a burning feeling while urinating. There can also be pain even when not urinating or a feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen. During urination there may be only a small amount of urine that looks cloudy or reddish. The person may feel ill and very tired. If the infection goes into the kidneys, there may also be a fever, nausea and vomiting, and back or side pain. Symptoms of a urinary infection should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

The provider will usually ask for a "clean catch" urine specimen to look for bacteria that could be causing the infection. An x-ray called an intravenous pyelogram or IVP may have to be done if the person has frequent urinary tract infections. An ultrasound or a cystoscopy are other tests that may be ordered to determine the cause of the infection.

Urinary tract infections are treated with antibiotics. The antibiotics are usually given for 3 days or longer depending on the type of bacteria that is causing the infection. For chronic infections or infections that keep coming back, it may be necessary to take the antibiotics for an even longer time. All of the doses of antibiotics must be taken even if the symptoms of the infection stop in 2 to 3 days. If the medicine is stopped before all ordered doses are finished, the infection can come back.

If the infection is not treated, the kidneys may be damaged. A severe urinary infection may require a stay in the hospital for a few days.

Drink more fluids, especially water, to help flush the bacteria from the system. Avoid drinking coffee and alcohol and eating spicy foods.

Urinary tract infections can be prevented. Some suggestions to avoid infections include:

drink plenty of water and other noncaffeinated drinks every day, at least 8 eight-ounce glasses (64 ounces or 1.9 liters)
drink cranberry juice everyday (it may help prevent infections)
urinate when the urge hits, do not delay, and urinate at least every 2 to 3 hours
wipe from front to back to keep rectal bacteria from getting into the vagina and urethra
take showers instead of tub baths
avoid using feminine hygiene sprays or scented douches and
clean the genital area before and after sexual intercourse and urinate shortly after sexual intercourse

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File URIN5267.RF2 VRS# 5267 Data Version 7.0