UTIs are actually pretty common to a point that they are often brushed off as no big deal. Still, it is important to take them seriously because if left untreated, they can lead to some bigger health problems. In this article, we will have a closer look at the signs of a UTI, when it is time to see a urologist in Singapore (https://aareurology.sg/ultimate-guide-on-female-urinary-incontinence-management-treatment-costs-and-benefits/), and how you can avoid them in the future.
A urinary tract infection happens when bacteria get into any part of your urinary system, which includes your kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. While most UTIs affect the lower part of the system (bladder and urethra), they can spread and affect your kidneys if not dealt with quickly. Though they are rarely life-threatening, they can be pretty painful and, if not treated, lead to bigger health issues.
The tell-tale signs to watch out for
There are a few tell-tale signs that something is up when it comes to UTIs. If you start noticing any of these symptoms, you might be dealing with a UTI (and needing prompt medical attention).
One of the first signs is needing to pee all the time. But there is a catch – you will probably only pass tiny drops of urine each time, not even a full trickle. It is that frustrating feeling like your bladder is constantly full, but you are barely able to go. Along with this, most people feel a burning or stinging sensation when they pee. This is called dysuria, and let me tell you, it is one of the worst parts of having a UTI.
Another thing to look out for is your urine changing color or smell. When you have a UTI, your pee might become cloudy, and it could start smelling really strong or foul. It is kind of like your body’s way of saying, “Hey, something is wrong here!”. Sometimes, you might even find blood in your urine, which could make it look pink, red, or dark brown. If you notice this, there is no time to waste – go to the nearest hospital or clinic for immediate medical intervention.
You may also experience some discomfort in your lower abdomen or pelvic area. It could feel like cramping or pressure in that part of your body, and this is another sign that something is not right. Along with that, feeling unusually tired or just “off” can also be a symptom of a UTI. You might not have the energy to do anything, and your body just feels drained.
When things get more serious
For the most part, UTIs are manageable and can be treated with antibiotics. But if left untreated, the infection can spread to the kidneys, and that is when things get really serious. Kidney infections, or pyelonephritis, can cause much worse symptoms. If you have a UTI and suddenly start to experience things like a high fever with chills, it might be a sign that the infection has spread. Kidney infections often cause these symptoms, and they need to be treated right away.
Another red flag is pain in your lower back or sides, especially if it is sharp or persistent. If it starts to feel like there is something hurting around your back, just below your ribs, it could be a sign of a kidney infection. Similarly, nausea or vomiting might happen with a kidney infection.
In older adults, UTIs sometimes cause confusion or changes in mental state. If you or a loved one start to feel disoriented, forgetful, or confused for no reason, it could be a sign that the infection is affecting the kidneys or other parts of the body. This is especially important to watch out for in elderly people, as UTIs in older adults can present themselves a little differently.
Who is most at risk
While anyone can get a UTI, some people are more likely to experience them than others. For women, UTIs are more common because of the way their bodies are built. They have shorter urethras, so it is easy for the bacteria to cause an infection as the distance that they travel is not far. Hormonal changes can also play a role, making UTIs more likely during pregnancy or menopause. Sexual activity can increase the risk too, as bacteria from the genital area can be pushed into the urethra during intercourse.
Men are not immune to UTIs, though. In fact, older men are at higher risk due to prostate problems. An enlarged prostate can lead to urinary retention, which makes it easier for bacteria to grow and cause an infection. Men who have had prostate surgery or who have diabetes may also be more prone to UTIs.
Kids and elderly people are also more vulnerable to UTIs. For babies and toddlers, it is not always obvious when they have one, as they may not be able to communicate their discomfort clearly. So, parents need to be on the lookout for signs like fever or irritability. In older adults, things like weakened immune systems or other health conditions can increase the risk of getting a UTI, so it is important to pay attention to any unusual symptoms.
When to see a doctor
If you notice any of the common UTI symptoms – especially if they do not go away after a day or two – you should reach out to your doctor. UTIs are usually treated with antibiotics, and the sooner you start them, the sooner you will feel better. If your symptoms get worse or you start noticing signs of a kidney infection, like fever, back pain, or nausea, it is time to get medical attention right away.
Also, if you are someone who tends to get UTIs frequently, or if they are a recurring issue for you, you need to seek medical advice. Recurrent UTIs might point to an underlying problem, like a structural issue or something else that is contributing to the infections. Your doctor can help figure out the cause and recommend a treatment plan to prevent them from happening over and over.
The right way to treat UTIs
Most UTIs are treated with antibiotics. Your doctor will figure out the best antibiotic for you based on the type of bacteria causing the infection. One of the most common mistakes that UTI patients make is that they stop taking the UTI medication when their condition improves. Your doctor will tell you to finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better. If you stop taking them too soon, the infection might come back or develop antibiotic resistance, making it harder to treat in the future.
In addition to antibiotics, you might be given something for pain relief, like a medication called phenazopyridine. This helps numb the urinary tract and relieve the painful, burning sensation when you pee. But remember, this does not treat the infection itself – it just helps with the symptoms.
It is also crucial to stay hydrated when you have a UTI. Drink plenty of water to help flush the bacteria out of your system. While cranberry juice has been suggested as a UTI remedy, research on its effectiveness is mixed. Cranberry juice, after all, contains a lot of refined sugar. Still, if you enjoy cranberry juice, it might be worth trying as part of your prevention routine.
UTI prevention tips
There are a few ways you can reduce your risk of getting a UTI. Staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do. Drinking plenty of water helps to flush out bacteria from your urinary system, making it harder for them to take hold.
Good hygiene is also key. Always wipe from front to back after using the bathroom to avoid introducing bacteria from your backside into the urethra. If you are sexually active, urinating after sex is a great way to clear out any bacteria that might have been pushed into the urethra during intercourse.
You should also avoid using products like harsh soaps, bubble baths, or scented hygiene items down there. These can irritate the urinary tract and make it more susceptible to infection. Lastly, wearing cotton underwear and avoiding tight-fitting clothes can also help prevent UTIs, as they allow the area to stay dry and free from bacteria.
Conclusion
If you suspect you have a UTI, do not brush it off. While UTIs are common, they are also easily preventable with the right habits. Stay hydrated, keep up with your hygiene, and do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor in Singapore if you are feeling off. A little attention early on can prevent a lot of pain and discomfort later!
Aare Urocare – Dr Fiona Wu
Gleneagles Hospital
6 Napier Road #10-06
Gleneagles Medical Centre
Singapore 258499
Tel: +65 6252 4682
Whatsapp: +65 8876 2942
Mt Elizabeth Hospital
3 Mt Elizabeth #14-02
Mt Elizabeth Medical Centre
Singapore 228510
Tel: +65 6758 5881
Whatsapp: +65 8876 2942
