Urinary Tract Infections – UTI মূত্রনালীর সংক্রমণ
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is an infection that can occur in any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, ureters, or urethra. UTIs are most commonly caused by bacteria, but they can also be caused by fungi or viruses in some cases.
Types of UTIs:
- Cystitis (Bladder Infection): This is the most common type of UTI. It occurs when bacteria enter the bladder, causing inflammation and infection.
- Urethritis (Urethra Infection): Infection of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body.
- Pyelonephritis (Kidney Infection): A more serious form of UTI, involving the kidneys. It occurs when an infection spreads from the bladder to the kidneys. Pyelonephritis can cause kidney damage if not treated promptly.
Causes of UTI:
- Bacterial Infection: The most common cause of UTIs is the bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is normally found in the intestines. However, other bacteria such as Klebsiella, Proteus, and Enterococcus can also cause infections.
- Sexual Activity: Sexual intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urethra, especially in women, as the urethra is shorter and closer to the rectum.
- Poor Hygiene: Wiping from back to front after using the toilet can spread bacteria from the rectal area to the urethra.
- Urinary Retention: Not urinating frequently or holding urine for too long can allow bacteria to multiply in the bladder.
- Catheter Use: Inserting a urinary catheter can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and pressure on the bladder during pregnancy can increase the risk of UTIs.
- Weakened Immune System: People with diabetes or those on immunosuppressive medications are at higher risk for UTIs.
Symptoms of UTI:
The symptoms of a urinary tract infection can vary depending on which part of the urinary system is affected. Common symptoms include:
- Pain or Burning During Urination: A common symptom, especially when the infection affects the urethra or bladder.
- Frequent Urination: The feeling of needing to urinate more often than usual, even if only small amounts of urine are produced.
- Urgency to Urinate: A strong, persistent feeling of needing to urinate immediately.
- Cloudy, Dark, or Bloody Urine: The presence of bacteria, pus, or blood can make urine appear cloudy or reddish in color.
- Strong-Smelling Urine: The urine may have a particularly foul odor, often due to the presence of bacteria.
- Lower Abdominal or Pelvic Pain: This can be particularly noticeable in cystitis (bladder infection).
- Fever or Chills: A sign that the infection may have reached the kidneys (pyelonephritis). This is usually accompanied by more severe symptoms.
Nausea or Vomiting: Often a sign of kidney infection, especially if fever is present
