What is a urinary tract infection?*1
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a health problem that occurs when bacteria enter our urinary tract and cause an infection.
When we talk about the urinary tract, we are referring to the bladder, kidneys, and the tubes that connect them.
Most UTIs occur in the bladder (cystitis). They are usually not serious infections if treated immediately, but if left untreated, they can lead to a kidney infection, which is more severe and can cause lasting damage over time.
What causes a urinary tract infection?*3
Most UTIs are caused by microbes (bacteria) that live in the large intestine and are present in feces. Normally, these microbes spread to our urinary tract through the urethra.
Women are more prone to UTIs because their urethra is shorter and closer to the anus than in men.
What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection?
- Pain or burning when urinating.
- Frequent urge to urinate, but generally passing small amounts of urine.
- Cloudy, pink, or red urine.
- Strong-smelling urine.
- Lower abdominal pain.
What is the treatment for a urinary tract infection?*2
- Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate antibiotics based on the type of bacteria. Remember that you can combine it with supplements formulated with ingredients that lower urinary pH, helping to create a more favorable environment for the action of acidophilic antibiotics. It is important that you take the antibiotics for the entire duration/period your doctor indicates.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Urinate often and take your time to empty your bladder completely.
- Use a heating pad to apply heat to your back or abdomen; it will help you manage the pain. If needed, contact your doctor for recommended medications.
- If the infection is affecting your kidneys or causing a systemic infection, go to the hospital immediately.
How to prevent a urinary tract infection?
- Drink a minimum of 2 liters of water daily.
- Try to empty your bladder completely every time you urinate. Take your time!
- Try to urinate and clean yourself after sexual intercourse.
- If you frequently have recurrent UTIs or during certain times of the year, such as summer, remember to take Utipro® Plus AF.
- If you are a woman, remember to wipe from front to back every time you go to the bathroom.
- Wear loose cotton clothing that keeps the skin dry in the urethral area.
- From menopause, women can also benefit from the use of estrogens around the vagina.*3
Source:
*1 https://www.cigna.com/es-us/knowledge-center/hw/temas-de-salud/infecciones-urinarias-en-adolescentes-y-adultos
*2 https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/informacion-de-la-salud/enfermedades-urologicas/infecciones-vejiga/
*3https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/ency/article/000521.html
