Urinary tract Infection

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A urinary tract infection is an infection that is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the urethra, bladder, kidneys, or prostate gland.

Symptoms of a urinary tract infection include:

Pain or discomfort while urinating
A frequent, urgent need to urinate
Penile discharge
Abdominal pain
Fever
Blood in the urine
Back pain

Urinary tract infections are rare in men under the age of 50. In most cases, bacteria causes an infection by spreading on the skin from the rectum into the urethra and then to the bladder or kidneys. It is possible for bacteria to spread to the urinary tract through the bloodstream as well. An enlarged prostate can also cause an infection.

How is it diagnosed?

A healthcare provider will examine you; assess your symptoms, and do a urinalysis or urine culture. If you have a urinalysis done, your healthcare provider will hand you a cup to urinate in, and they will give you instructions on how to produce a urine sample. Your urine will be analyzed in a laboratory for color, bacteria, proteins, white blood cells, red blood cells, and other factors. Normally, urine is sterile with no blood or bacteria. UTIs can be diagnosed based on the results of the urinalysis.

How can I prevent it?

Practice good hygiene.
Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
Empty your bladder completely while urinating.
Use a latex or polyurethane condom during intercourse.
Urinate after sex to flush out bacteria.