Don’t neglect your health, here’s everything you should know about urinary tract infections – arecucuta.com

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur when harmful microorganisms enter the urinary system and cause infection. Bacteria are the most common cause, however, fungi can also trigger this infection.More than 85% of UTIs are caused by intestinal or vaginal bacteria¹.Generally, the cause is bacteria E. coli, found in the intestines and important for digestion. However, in the urinary tract, this bacteria can infect the urethra (urethritis), bladder (cystitis), or kidneys (pyelonephritis).

In general, women are usually most at risk for UTIs because their urethras are shorter than men’s, which makes it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder and form an infection commonly known as cystitis. Regardless, men can also develop this condition, especially if they have associated prostate disease. To deal with such infections, It is important to recognize the main symptoms that may occur with a urinary tract infection:

• Pain or burning sensation when urinating.
• Urinate frequently.
• Feeling the need to urinate even when your bladder is empty.
• Pressure or pain in the lower abdomen.
• Most of the time there is no fever. What may occur, although not always, is a change in the smell, appearance, and color of the urine.

How to prevent urinary tract infections?

• It is relevant to drink enough fluids during the day, two liters of water per day if possible.
• Do not retain urine for long periods of time.
• Wear appropriate clothing, preferably cotton.
• Pay extra attention to personal hygiene
• Avoid products that may cause irritation.
• Be careful with food and drinks; caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods tend to add some discomfort.

“Patients who experience some or all symptoms suggestive of UVI are advised to see a doctor. Diagnosis consists of two stages: history analysis, in which symptoms, medical history, and any risk factors for urinary tract disease are analyzed. The second stage is referral to a laboratory Perform a simple urinalysis (which shows changes suggestive of a urinary tract infection) and a urine culture (which confirms a urinary tract infection and determines whether bacteria are present in the urinary tract),” commented Hélida Silva, Director of Medical Affairs at Siemens Healthineers.

Although these recommendations may help prevent infection, the importance of avoiding self-medication must be emphasized, especially if symptoms worsen. Seeking medical help is the best option, and urinalysis provides laboratories and doctors with a broad clinical understanding of a patient’s health, allowing them to detect the stage of infection and the best treatment that should be considered.

When these infections become chronic, laboratories need to have the necessary tools to detect and monitor them, including monitoring public health in each region, country, or city. These controls range from detection of urinary tract infections to more precise and reliable estimates.

“Laboratories play a vital role in the detection and monitoring of urinary tract infections. At Siemens Healthineers, we believe it is key to continue to develop rapid test strips and laboratory tests that can provide doctors with information about the specific components of urine , such as blood, sugar, protein, nitrites, bacteria, and other pathogens. Increased awareness of symptoms is important because the results of a urine test, in addition to detecting urinary tract infections, can help identify diseases such as diabetes and detect kidney early signs of illness. My advice is to always seek medical attention as the first step, as this will be an investment in our well-being,” concluded Silva.