Urinary Tract Infection caused by susceptible bacteria
What is Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?
A UTI is an infection in any part of the urinary tract, including the bladder, kidneys, and urethra. UTIs are usually caused by bacteria entering the body through the urethra. The bacteria travel up the urinary tract and cause inflammation and infection in the bladder or other areas of the urinary tract.
UTIs are very common, especially in women, with about one in two women experiencing a UTI at least once in their lifetime. While some UTIs can go away without any treatment, others require antibiotics.
Susceptible Bacteria
The most common type of bacteria responsible for causing UTIs are Escherichia coli. Other bacteria can also cause UTIs, such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Enterococcus faecalis, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus.
UTI Symptoms
The most common symptoms of UTI are:
- Burning or pain while urinating
- Cloudy, dark, bloody, or foul-smelling urine
- Frequent and strong urge to urinate, even after you’ve finished
- Cramping or pressure in your lower abdomen or back
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever
Prevention and Treatment
Prevention is the best way to reduce your risk of getting a UTI. Some prevention tips include drinking plenty of water throughout the day, emptying your bladder when it’s full, avoiding tight-fitting clothing, and wiping from front to back after using the restroom.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a UTI, it’s important to contact your doctor for a urine sample and to discuss treatment options. Antibiotics are the most common treatment for UTIs caused by bacteria. Your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics or, if your infection is severe, intravenous antibiotics.