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The Three Types Of Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
Urinary tract infections, also known as UTI, are bacterial infections affecting any part of the upper or lower urinary tract. UTI is a serious health problem that strikes millions of people each year. Urinary tract infections are the second most common infection affecting a person's body, resulting in millions of physician's appointments with countless rounds of antibiotics being prescribed.
Most commonly affecting women, a UTI has many causes and probably a few still unknown. Statistics show that one out of every five women will experience urinary tract infections during her lifetime. Men are not immune to urinary tract infections. Many men and children experience a UTI and even your pets can suffer from urinary tract infections.
The Types Of Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
Narrowing down a UTI, it usually fits within one of three categories as this infection can often target a different area of the urinary tract.
Urethritis - When bacteria enter the urinary tract and infect the urethra, it is called Urethritis. This is the mildest form of UTI and is easily treated with antibiotics. When left untreated, it can spread upward to affect the bladder.
Cystitis - Bacteria that has entered the urinary tract and has infected the bladder is known as Cystitis. These urinary tract infections are more painful and exhibit more symptoms than with Urethritis. However, Cycsitis can result from untreated and progressed Urethritis.
Phelonephritis - The worst kind of UTI is Phelonepritis. In this infection, bacteria have infected the kidneys themselves. This most serious infection can be life threatening as it can lead to kidney failure. When the lesser types of urinary tract infections go untreated, they can lead to Phelonepritis or an infection of the kidneys. Thos with Phelonephritis UTI suffer from severe back pain, dangerously high fever, and vomiting.
Those At Risk For Developing Urinary Tract Infections
Because of the suppressed immune system of those with diabetes, diabetics are at the highest risk for developing urinary tract infections. After diabetics, anyone with a lowered immune system is at risk as they may not be able to fight off the bacteria that cause a UTI.
It is also possible for people with a normal immune system to contract urinary tract infections. Cleanliness issues, especially after sexual activity, wiping from back to front after urinating or having a bowel movement, and holding in your urine are all ways to contract a UTI.
Treating Urinary Tract Infections
After a urine test that brings about a positive UTI diagnosis, treatment usually consists of a round of special antibiotics prescribed by a physician. If treated before spreading to the kidneys, there are usually no repercussions to a UTI. However, if urinary tract infections are left untreated, kidney damage can result and possibly even life threatening kidney failure.
While the antibiotics used are at the discretion of the physician, they will usually inquire about any drug allergies and any other medications you take to rule out any dangerous drug interactions. It is crucial to finish the antibiotics given instead of stopping them when you feel better. Many times if you don't follow through with the dosage recommendations, urinary tract infections can reappear worse than before.
If you believe you may have a UTI, consult your physician immediately. Urinary tract infections are serious business, but with early detection and treatment, you can eradicate them for good.
