Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a condition when an infection occurs in the organs included in the system, namely the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Urinary tract infection itself is an infection caused by microorganisms. Some are caused by bacteria, but some are caused by fungi or viruses. 90% of cases of urinary tract infection are caused by E.Coli bacteria.
According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC), urinary tract infections are the second most common infectious disease after respiratory tract infections. This disease can attack from newborns to the elderly. This disease is more common in women than men. This is due to the shorter size of the urethra So it is easier for bacteria to gain access to the bladder. The symptoms of a urinary tract infection are:
1. The genitals are burning when urinating
2. Frequent urge to urinate, even though a little urine comes out
3. Pain or pressure in the lower back or abdomen
4. Bloody urine or darker in color
5. Strong-smelling urine
6. More frequent urination at night
7. Pain during sexual intercourse
8. Feeling tired or shaking
9. Fever or chills (indicates the infection may have reached the kidneys)
Investigations carried out by a urologist to make a diagnosis, such as:
1. Urine examination, to detect the presence of bacteria in the urine
2. X-rays or ultrasound, to check for possible abnormalities in the bladder
3. Cystoscopy, to see the patient's urinary tract. If needed, the doctor can use a cystoscope to take a tissue sample (biopsy) in the bladder and then examine it in the laboratory
Here's how to prevent urinary tract infections, namely:
- Not holding urine
- Always clean the pubic area from front to back after urinating
- Drink enough water (2-3 liters per day)
- Sprays for cleaning the female area, deodorizers for the female area, and other products for the female area should be avoided because they will only irritate the mucosa
- Clean the genital area before having intercourse. This aims to get rid of bacteria that have the potential to enter the urethra
- Change your underwear every day
- Do not use undergarments that are too tight because it will increase humidity
The doctor will prescribe medicine to relieve pain, as well as reduce fever if there are complaints of pain and fever. If this condition occurs three times a year or more, check with your doctor so that a special treatment plan can be recommended. Mild bladder infections usually clear up on their own within a few days.
Friends of Hermina, Don't be afraid to do urinary tract health screening periodically as a step for early detection of urinary tract health problems to a urologist at Hermina Hospital, Balikpapan.