Men’s Health - Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Human body is complex and it will be in harmony only when all organs are taken care. Often overlooked due to the common health conditions such as stroke, heart-failure, and diabetes, other major diseases such as kidney disease and urinary tract infection are not getting the awareness they require.

Especially, urinary tract infection (UTI) is still an alien health condition for many people. There are a few who even think that urinary tract infection occurs only in women. The fact is UTI can occur in both male and female. This blog is an attempt to shed more light on the UTI infection in men.

Continue reading to know everything you need to know about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention methods of this infection.

Causes for UTI:

UTI could be seen in men of all ages. Various health conditions such as diabetes, kidney diseases, urine infection, inability to empty the bladder, narrowed urethra, insufficient consumption of liquids, suppressed immune system, and procedures that involve urinary tract.

In older people it is caused by a bacterium called Escherichia coli which is a natural resident in the human body. In younger people, it occurs as one of the diseases in Sexually Transmitted Diseases.

Symptoms of UTI:

Urinary tract infection does not show any direct symptoms but based on the area of infection a few signs could be found. In initial stages of infection the person may experience lower abdomen pain, fever with chills, nausea and vomiting.

• Frequent urge for urination
• Painful urination
• Urge to urinate but interrupted stream
• Strong odour and colour
• Pain in the lower abdomen

Diagnosis for UTI:

A physical examination that involves checking abdomen and bladder area, and examining the genitals and vital signs is conducted as initial diagnosis process. Family history of UTI would be taken into consideration and the doctor will check if the results are conceding UTI. Based on the results of physical examinations, the urologist may proceed further with the medical tests.

The laboratory tests that include urine sample evaluation in which the individual need to take the mid-stream to better evaluation. The doctor may also suggest imaging examinations to determine UTI.

Treatment for UTI:

The treatment process of UTI is complex and focused on preventing infection spreading to kidneys and other organs. The course of treatment typically employs antibiotics to tackle the bacteria and reduce the count of it. Also, medications that reduce painful sensation while urinating are prescribed. Treatment lasts from 1 to 7 weeks depending on the severity of the infection.

In a few cases, if the infection is severe, could lead to fatal consequences, surgery is performed to dry-up the infected area or to remove it.

Preventive Measures for UTI:

• Men who do not empty their bladder as it requires have more chances of UTI. Try to take a trip to the restroom without ignoring the urge.
• Insufficient consumption of liquids may lead to infection. Drink plenty of water and other liquids such as cranberry juice.
• As UTI is one of the infections that could be transmitted sexually, it is highly recommended to use protection during sex, and genital hygiene before and after sex.
• A simple act of urination right after the act of sex can decrease the chances of UTI significantly.

Urinary tract infection can become a severe issue if required treatment is not provided. There are two golden rules that can save you from UTI. The prevalence of infection grows along with age. It is imperative for men to take care of their personal hygiene along with health checkups at regular intervals.

Follow the preventive measures without fail and consult the urologist if you observe anything abnormal while urinating.