Last Updated on January 23, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Urinary tract infection (UTI) infects kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra to impact the urinary system. UTI can become serious if it spreads to the kidneys.
UTI affects both men and women. But women are at greater risk of developing the condition because their urethra is shorter and closer to the vagina. A research paper published in 2018 informs that each and every woman has a lifetime risk of developing UTI is 60% which is only 13% for men.
Urinary tract infections are generally treated with antibiotics. But eating a healthy diet can reduce symptoms to improve quality of life.
How can be urinary tract infections cured?
Usually, antibiotics can treat urinary tract infections. The dosage of antibiotics is dependent upon the type of infection that causes UTI and the individual’s ability to deal with the infection.
People with UTI are often recommended trimethoprim, sulfamethoxazole, fosfomycin, nitrofurantoin, cephalexin, and ceftriaxone. Fluoroquinolones are also prescribed in case UTI has spread in a larger area.
The symptoms of UTI generally go away on their own. But it is essential to complete the course of antibiotics as prescribed by the doctor. Besides antibiotics, doctors can also prescribe a pain reliever to reduce the severity of pain due to symptoms.
Can UTI happen again after taking a complete treatment?
Yes. people do suffer from frequent incidents of UTI. UTI can happen again when the body there is an infection again due to the same pathogen. An article published on the Harvard Health website has published a statement by Dr. Kalpana Gupta that says ‘Recurrent UTIs aren’t due to poor hygiene or something else that women have brought on themselves. Some women are just prone to UTIs’.
This article also shows that Escherichia coli bacteria spreads faster in pre-menopausal women. The common risk factors are sexual intercourse and the use of spermicides. But in post-menopausal women, certain physical changes in the body make women prone to UTI.
What to do if you have frequent infections?
Eating a healthy diet and drinking water regularly can reduce the chance of frequent infections. Also, avoid holding urine in the bladder for long hours as it can increase the risk of UTI.
Besides this, consulting a doctor is recommended as UTI can spread to kidneys if not controlled on time. The doctor can recommend low-dose antibiotics to control the spread of the infection. Also, vaginal estrogen therapy can be beneficial for people who have reached menopause.
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