Urinary tract infection: what it is, causes, symptoms and treatment

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) can cause great discomfort, but the treatment is simple and fast. Find out what this condition is, causes and symptoms, treatment and prevention.

What is a urinary tract infection?

The term urinary tract infection (UTI) refers to the presence of bacteria in any part of the urinary system, whether kidneys, urethra and bladder. Microorganisms enter from outside the body, via the urethra or, more rarely, through the blood. These bacteria are usually eliminated by the body’s defences or urine, but when this does not happen, it causes a urinary tract infection.

What are the types of urinary tract infection?

Urinary tract infections are classified according to the area affected. 

Cystitis
This infection occurs in the bladder and is the most common type of UTI. Cystitis usually causes symptoms like pain while urinating, an urgent and frequent need to urinate, as well as a feeling of full bladder even after urinating. 

Urethritis
Urethritis occurs in the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. This infection can cause pain or a burning sensation while urinating. 

Pyelonephritis
This is the most serious type of urinary tract infection. It occurs in the kidneys and causes back pain, fever and intense general discomfort. 

What are the symptoms of urinary tract infections?

The symptoms of a urinary tract infection can vary depending on which part of the urinary system is affected and the severity of the infection. Furthermore, some cases may present less specific symptoms, especially in elderly people or small children.

However, the most common symptoms include:
•    Pain or burning sensation while urinating;
•    More frequent urination, even in small quantities;
•    Urgent need to urinate, even when bladder is not full;
•    Pain in the abdominal or pelvic region;
•    Back or flank pain, especially in the event of kidney infection; 
•    Cloudy or strong-smelling urine;
•    Blood in urine;
•    Fatigue and general discomfort;
•    Fever and chills;
•    Nausea and vomiting.

How are urinary tract infections diagnosed?

Urinary tract infections are diagnosed by assessing the symptoms. There are also exams that provide additional information. However, in cases of reinfection, patients with comorbidities, children or hospitalised patients, it is important to identify the bacteria responsible for the infection, in which case the diagnosis involves a laboratory urine test. 

This way, the physician is able to evaluate the susceptibility of the microorganisms present in the sample and select the most appropriate antibiotic for each case. In specific cases, further evaluation may be required with ultrasound, tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

How are urinary tract infections treated?

Urinary tract infections are treated with antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria responsible for the infection. The specific type of antibiotic and duration of the treatment will depend on the type of bacteria identified, preexisting pathologies, severity of the symptoms and stage of pregnancy.

In the case of urinary tract infections during pregnancy, the selection of the antibiotic is especially important, as some may be contraindicated due to potential harm to the foetus. The physician will assess each case individually and prescribe an antibiotic that is safe for the mother and developing baby.

In any situation, it is essential to follow the physician’s instructions and take the full course of the antibiotic, even if the symptoms improve. Interrupting the treatment prematurely may lead to reinfection and make the bacteria more resistant to the antibiotic.

Urinary tract infection: truths and myths

There are still many misconceptions about urinary tract infections. We clarify below some truths and myths. 

1. Urinary tract infections affect women more
True. The female urethra is shorter, which facilitates bacterial access to the bladder. However, urinary tract infections also affect men, especially when they have prostate conditions.

2. Cranberry juice can help fight urinary tract infections
True. These berries are high in proanthocyanidins, which inhibit the microorganisms’ capacity to adhere to the bladder. However, this should never replace the treatment prescribed by a physician. 

3. Urinary tract infections are more common in winter
False. Urinary tract infections can occur at any time of the year.

4. Urinary tract infections are contagious
False. Urinary tract infections are bacterial, not viral, therefore they are not contagious, nor can they be contracted in bathrooms, as is popular belief. 

5. There is a higher risk of urinary tract infection during menopause
True. The hormonal changes associated with menopause can affect urethral mucosa, making the urethra more vulnerable to irritation and facilitating bacterial mobility .

Joaquim Chaves Saúde, fast and effective treatment for urinary tract infections

The right prevention and treatment of urinary tract infections are essential for your health and wellbeing. If you identified any of the symptoms described above or suspect you may be at risk, schedule your General Practice and Family Medicine, Gynaecology or Urology appointment at Joaquim Chaves Saúde now.

You can count on our experienced and specialised professionals to conduct a thorough assessment and prescribe the best treatment to guarantee a full recovery. Schedule your appointment through your personal section of our website or on our App.