What is a UTI?

A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of your urinary system—kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract, mainly the bladder and the urethra.

⚠️ Causes of UTI:
UTIs are usually caused by bacteria, mainly Escherichia coli (E. coli), which lives in the digestive tract. It can enter the urinary tract through the urethra.

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Common causes include:

Poor hygiene

Holding urine too long

Sexual activity

Use of catheters

A weakened immune system

Kidney stones

Menopause or hormonal changes in women

🧬 Symptoms of UTI:
Symptoms depend on the location of the infection:

🔸 Lower UTI (Bladder/Urethra):
Burning sensation while urinating

Frequent urge to urinate

Cloudy or strong-smelling urine

Blood in the urine

Pelvic pain (especially in women)

🔸 Upper UTI (Kidneys):
Fever and chills

Flank or back pain

Nausea and vomiting

Fatigue

🧪 Diagnosis:
✅ Tests used to confirm a UTI:
Urinalysis – Detects signs of infection (white blood cells, bacteria, blood).

Urine culture – Identifies the specific bacteria causing the infection.

Imaging tests (Ultrasound, CT Scan) – Used for complicated or recurrent UTIs.

Cystoscopy – A scope to examine the bladder if UTIs keep returning.

💊 Treatment Options:
🔹 1. Antibiotics (Primary Treatment)
The type and duration depend on the severity and patient history.

Common antibiotics:

Nitrofurantoin

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX)

Fosfomycin

Ciprofloxacin (for complicated cases)

Amoxicillin-clavulanate