Men Urinary Tract Infection
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Wednesday, November 14, 2012
What is UTI? Urinary tract infection is an infection of the upper or lower urinary tract caused by various pathogenic micro-organisms. Urinary infections are simply classified by location as; Upper Urinary Tract Infections (the ureters and the kidneys), Lower Urinary Tract Infections (bladder and other structures found below it), Complicated Lower or Upper Urinary Tract Infections; acquired during hospitalization and may be related to catheterization and other medical procedures. It is also common among patients with urologic abnormalities and compromised immune system, possible recurrent. Uncomplicated Lower or Upper Urinary Tract Infections; acquired in community (non recurrent).
Risk Factors for UTI
- Individuals who do not empty their bladders completely.
- Conditions that obstruct urine flow such as; urethral stricture, tumors, kidney or ureter stones, congenital and neurological abnormalites, BPH (Benign prostatic hyperplasia).
- Individuals with compromised immunity such as; patients suffering from AIDS.
- People needing frequent catheterization or undergoing medical procedure such as; cystoscopic.
- Bladder and urethral mucosa inflammation.
- Other medical conditions associated with increased risk of acquiring UTI include; diabetes, pregnancy, comatose patients and people with neurologic disorders.
Lower UTI (Urinary Tract Infection)
The infections of lower tract include; inflammation of the urinary bladder, prostate gland (prostatitis) and urethra (urethritis).
Lower UTI Symptoms
- Pain during urination (dysuria).
- Burning sensation while urinating.
- Increase in urination frequency.
- Need to urinate at night (nocturia).
- Presence of blood in the urine (hematuria).
- Urine incontinence (involuntary elimination of urine).
- Presence of a discomfort in the pelvic region or pelvic pain.
- Back pain may also be presence.
Lower UTI Diagnostic
- Bacterial colony count
- Urinalysis (urine culture)
- Cellular studies
- CT or Ultrasound may also be ordered to detect other possible causes.
The treatment of lower UTI depends on the causative agent and the level of the infection. For recurrent UTI infections, long term therapy may be necessary. If other medical conditions such as kidney stone are responsibe for the infection, they are also treated.
Upper UTI (Urinary Tract Infections)
Infections of upper tract include; inflammation of the renal pelvis, kidney and formation of renal mass (abscesses). The infection initially start from the bladder and spread upwards towards the kidney. It may also start from other parts of the body (systematic infection) and gradually spread to the kidney through the bloodstream.
Upper UTI Symptoms
Since the infection of upper urinary tract involves kidneys (Pyelonephritis). There are two types of Pyelonephritis; Acute and Chronic.
An individuals with Acute Pyelonephritis usually manifests with fever and chills. Urinalysis test shows an abnormal increase in bacteria colonies, increased white blood cells and presence of pus. Presence of flank pain (pain felt just below the rib and above the ilium due to overstimulation of nerve endings). Other symptoms may include; vomiting, nausea, headache, body fatigue and pain during urination.
Upper UTI Diagnostic
Upon physical examination, it reveals tenderness and pain in the costovertebral region.
Upon physical examination, it reveals tenderness and pain in the costovertebral region.
- CT Scan or an ultrasound is performed.
- Urine culture and sensitivity test to determine the cause of the infection.
Upper Urinary Tract Infection Treatment
Patients who have acute un-complicated Pyelonephritis without other associated symptoms like nausea or vomitting are given antibiotics and treated as out patients (2 weeks antibiotics therapy is usually recommended). A follow up check-up is indicated to monitor the effectiveness of the prescribed regimen and to prevent progression (Acute Pyelonephritis turning to Chronic Pyelonephritis).
Chronic Pyelonephritis
In chronic Pyelonephritis, patients may have no symptoms and they may only re-appear during the exacerbation period (worsening of the condition). Some of the other symptoms that may be present during an acute exacerbation episode are; fatigue, frequent urination, thirst, weight loss and headache. The physician may also request for a pyelography (test to access the kidneys, bladder, ureter using a dye).
Other tests that are performed include; measurement of the level of creatinine and BUN. Antibiotics if bacterial infections is present. In other cases, a long term use of a low dose of antiobiotics may be considered to prevent frequent reccurent of the infection and renal scarring, which can eventually lead to renal failure.
Preventing UTI (in Both Men and Women)
Here is a list of a few things that you can do to prevent having recurrent urinary tract infections;
- You should always shower rather than using a bath tub since if there are bacteria on the water, they may enter the urethra.
- After waste elimination, remember to wipe from front to back. To prevent transmission of micro-organism (fecal contamination is responsibe for most of UTI).
- Drink adequate amount of fluid, daily to flush out bacteria.
- As much as possible, avoid foods that may irritate urinary tract such as; excessive coffee, alcohol and soft drinks.
- Make sure you are completely emptying your bladder.
- Void atleast every 2 to 3 hours during the day.
- Take your medication as prescribed.
- Never miss a followup schedule with your physician.
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