Let's Talk About UTIs
Did you know that an estimated 1 out of every 2 women will have a urinary tract infection, or UTI? Even though the condition is much more common in women, it’s important for men to realize almost anyone can get one.
What causes UTIs?
Alisa Berger, MD, Urologist at CHI St. Joseph Health Urology Associates, says, “A UTI is an infection in any part of the urinary system: the kidneys, ureters, bladder, prostate or urethra, that’s most commonly caused by bacteria.” This kind of infection often occurs when bacteria that normally lives in your bowel gains access to the bladder through the urethra. After gaining access, the bacteria can multiply and increase the risk of a urinary tract infection.
How to Spot a UTI
There are different ways to spot a UTI, and not everyone will experience similar symptoms. Take a look at the most common symptoms to help you identify if you need to seek medical attention:
- Urgent need to urinate frequently
- Burning feeling when urinating
- Aching feeling, fever, or chills
- Strong odor from urine
- Pressure/pain in lower abdomen
- Cloudy/blood-tinged urine
Be Proactive to Prevent UTIs
Taking precautionary actions will help you prevent a future UTI. Follow these simple tips to be proactive:
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Avoid postponing going to the bathroom. When you have to go, go!
- Incorporate cranberries (or cranberry supplements) into your diet—not just the juice as this is too much sugar and not enough cranberry extract. Cranberries contain certain compounds that can help prevent organisms (E. coli specifically) from attaching onto the bladder lining. Keep in mind that cranberries will not treat present UTIs