Steps to Prevent and Treat Infections
What is a Urinary Tract Infection?
A UTI is an infection in any part of your urinary system, which includes the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys. UTIs most commonly affect the urethra and bladder (lower tract), but more serious infections can occur when they spread to the kidneys (upper tract). Here's an overview of UTIs, including causes and symptoms.
If you think you have a UTI or experiencing any symptoms linked to UTIs, contact your healthcare professional immediately.
Types of UTIs
- Cystitis: An infection in the bladder, causing frequent urination, pain, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, and abdominal pain.
- Urethritis: An infection in the urethra, pain or burning feeling during urination, possibly with a white or cloudy discharge.
- Pyelonephritis: A kidney infection, causing fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and upper back or side pain.
What causes UTIs?
UTIs are primarily caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract via the urethra. Women are more prone to UTIs due to the shorter length and location of their urethra. Common causes include bacteria from the Gl tract and sexual intercourse.
Prevention Tips
Always speak to your doctor or healthcare professional as your first step in dealing with a UTI. These are tips only and not a substitute for medical advice.
- Stick to your prescribed cathing routine: know on average how many times a day you’ll need to catheterise.
- Don’t delay self-cathing when you feel the urge to urinate: If you delay or don’t empty your bladder properly urine can allow bacteria to multiply.
- Always wash your hands before and after cathing: Clean hands can help to minimse the risk of your catheter being contaminated reducing the risk of infection.
- Clean your genital area with mild, fragrance-free soap or pre-moistened wipes.
- Never reuse intermittent catheters: they are a single use device. Use a new catheter every time.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Avoid caffeinated beverages: as they have a diuretic effect compromising your cathing routine, and they can also irritate the bladder.
- Handle catheters correctly, avoid touching the catheter itself. If the catheter comes with a handling sleeve, ensure you use it.
- Empty your bladder after intercourse, to flush out any bacteria.
- Cranberries or pure cranberry juice: may be helpful but please consult with your healthcare professional as it can impact your medication.
UTI Prevention Tips for Women
Women should also:
- Wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria transferring from the back passage to the urethra.
- Wear breathable clothing and cotton underwear.
- Freshen up before intercourse and use water-soluble lubricants if needed: these can reduce friction resulting in less trauma to the urethra.
- Avoid feminine hygiene products like sprays, douches, or powders that can irritate the urethra.
Also be aware that during the menopause oestrogen production deceases making the urethra more vulnerable to infection.
Getting Diagnosed with a UTI
If you have symptoms, contact your healthcare professional as soon as possible; an untreated UTI can spread to the kidneys, and require immediate medical attention Your healthcare professional may request a sample for a urine test or culture to determine if you have a UTI. Most UTIs can be treated with antibiotics. Complete the full course of medication, even if you start feeling better, to ensure the infection is fully eradicated.
UTIs are common and treatable with prompt attention. If you think you have a UTI or experience any symptoms, contact your healthcare professional immediately.
This information is not a substitute for medical advice.