HEALTHNET

What is urinary tract infection?

Urinary tract infection is a common medical term and describes what is normally caused by bacterial invasion.

(Posted on 19 October 2006)

The common medical term - urinary tract infection

Urinary tract infection is a common medical term and describes what is normally caused by bacterial invasion. In fact, the whole urinary system consisting of the kidneys, ureter, bladder and urethra may become infected, and the highest incidence of this is shown in cystitis.

General symptoms

Symptoms of cystitis or urethritis in general include frequent urination, fever, cloudy urine or blood in the urine, an inability to complete urination and/or a burning sensation during urination. If the kidneys are infected, symptoms like fever and chills, lower back pain and vomiting may be present. In this instance the patient should consult with a doctor at once, otherwise kidney function may be impaired.

Chance of developing urethritis

The incidence of urethritis is higher in females because physiologically the female urethra is shorter than the males' urethra and is nearer to the anus. Moreover, there is a chance that bacteria may be pushed into the female urethra during intercourse. Women using diaphragms for contraception may be prone to bladder infections as the diaphragm is pressed against the urethra causing incomplete urination.

Treatments and prevention

Once it is confirmed that the bladder or urethra is infected by bacteria, the patient will be prescribed antibiotics for treatment. Commonly used antibiotics include co-trimoxazole, penicillin, cephalosporin, nitrofurantoin and quinolone. The patient must finish the full course of treatment as prescribed by the doctor. In addition, the doctor may prescribe some drugs having an anaesthetic effect on the urethra for relieving discomfort during urination. These drugs will turn the urine an orange red colour, but the patient need not worry about that.

Actually adopting some small but sensible habits can help to prevent urinary tract infections. For example, drink more water; defecate immediately when you have the urge to do so; wipe from front to back after defecation; use lubricant during sexual intercourse to avoid hurting the urethra, and urinate after sexual intercourse to help flush away bacteria.

Although cystitis or urethritis is a common infection, it may affect the kidneys if not treated properly and the consequences can be very serious. Therefore, seeking clinical advice is highly recommended.

Source: Hong Kong and Drug Education Resources Centre, The Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Hong Kong