Health Services: Common Problems - Urinary Tract Infection
A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is one of the most common occuring infections in the human body. A UTI can affect any part of the urinary tract; from the urethra to the kidneys. Some people are more prone to UTIs including women, men with enlarged prostates, diabetics, those with conditions that weaken the immune system and those with congenital anomalies of the urinary system.
Prevention is the best treatment. Listed below are some key things you can do to keep your urinary tract in optimal condition.
Drink plenty of water (eight 8-oz. glasses per day) and urinate frequently. Filling and completely emptying the bladder flushes out bacteria before it has a chance to create an infection.
Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom to avoid transferring bacteria from the anus to the urethra.
Wash the genital area daily with mild soap and dry thorougly, avoid douches, strong soaps and deodorants which can irritate the area.
Urinate as soon as possible after sexual intercourse to flush out bacteria that may have entered the urethra.
Avoid internal urinary tract irritants such as alcohol, caffeine and spicy foods.
Drink 100% cranberry juice (not the "juice cocktail") - it doesn't cure UTIs but it may make the urine and bladder less hospitable to bacteria.
Signs and Symptoms of a lower UTI include but are not limited to the list below.
A strong and frequent need to urinate
A burning sensation on urination
Pain in lower belly or back
Cloudy, bloody and/or foul smelling urine
If left untreated, a UTI can progress upward and develop into a kidney infection. Signs and symptoms of a kidney infection include but are not limited to the signs and symptoms of a UTI in addition to the list below.
Back or flank pain around the level of the lower ribs, usually one-sided
Fever and chills
Nausea
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms call Health Services at 978-665-3216 for an appointment. Your urine will be evaluated and medication will be prescribed if needed. Remember, everyone's body is different and one person may experience all the symptoms while someone else may only experience a few. It is important to catch and treat an infection early to prevent its progression.
