About Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Urinary Tract Infection is a common condition affecting the bladder, urethra and kidneys. UTI symptoms often include burning urination, frequent urination, lower abdominal pain, urgency, cloudy urine and foul-smelling urine. UTI in women is more common due to shorter urethra, while UTI in men is frequently associated with prostate enlargement, urinary retention or kidney stones. Untreated UTI can progress to kidney infection, high fever and sepsis, making early diagnosis essential.

Causes and Risk Factors of UTI
Common causes include bacterial entry into the urinary tract, poor hydration, constipation, uncontrolled diabetes, sexual activity, menopause-related changes, kidney stones and enlarged prostate in men. Individuals often experience recurrent urinary tract infection due to incomplete bladder emptying, weakened immunity or chronic irritation. Many patients with repeated UTI episodes also have bladder dysfunction or prostate-related issues that need specialist evaluation.

Diagnostic Tests for UTI
Accurate UTI diagnosis starts with a urine routine test to check for infection markers. Urine culture helps identify the specific bacteria and guides targeted antibiotics. Ultrasound of kidneys and bladder is recommended in cases of recurrent UTI, severe symptoms or suspected kidney involvement. In men, tests for prostate enlargement and Uroflowmetry with post-void residual urine help detect underlying obstruction.

Treatment of Urinary Tract Infection
UTI treatment is based on culture-specific antibiotics, adequate hydration and pain-relief medications. For moderate to severe infections, especially with fever or back pain, intravenous antibiotics may be required. Treatment of UTI in men may include addressing prostate enlargement, relieving urinary obstruction and managing kidney stones. Long-standing or recurrent urinary infections require preventive care such as good hydration, proper hygiene, timely treatment of constipation and regular follow-up with a urologist.

Prevention of UTI
Preventive steps include drinking adequate water, regular bladder emptying, maintaining genital hygiene, using cotton undergarments, avoiding holding urine for long hours and treating constipation. Women should urinate after intercourse to reduce infection risk. Men with prostate enlargement should undergo evaluation and early management to prevent urinary retention and recurrent infections.

Urinary Tract Infection - UTI