Acute urinary tract infections (UTIs) are often considered a minor issue, but their impact can be far more serious than expected. If left untreated, these infections can spread to the kidneys and cause complications that can be life-threatening. While this condition is more common in women due to the anatomy of the urinary tract, men and children are not completely immune to the condition.
Recognizing the early symptoms of a UTI is crucial for early treatment and preventing the condition from worsening. Learn the signs and how to prevent them below!
What Causes Urinary Tract Infections?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when microorganisms, primarily bacteria, enter the urinary tract and multiply. Normally, the body has a natural mechanism to expel bacteria through the urine. However, when this defense is weakened or bacteria manage to penetrate it, an infection can occur.
Here are some of the main causes of UTIs that you need to be aware of:
1. Escherichia coli bacteria (E. coli)
The most common cause of UTIs is E. coli bacteria , which originate in the digestive tract (large intestine). These bacteria can migrate from the anus to the urethra, especially after a bowel movement or when wiping the genital area in the wrong direction (from back to front).
2. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Some types of STIs such as genital herpes , gonorrhea , chlamydia , and trichomoniasis can also trigger UTIs, especially if they cause inflammation of the urinary tract.
3. Improper Urination Habits
Holding in urine for too long or not emptying the bladder completely can allow bacteria to survive longer in the urinary tract and eventually cause an infection.
4. Lack of Genital Area Hygiene
The habit of rarely changing underwear, cleaning intimate areas incorrectly, or using cleaning products that contain irritants can also trigger bacterial growth.
5. Additional Risk Factors
Certain medical conditions or lifestyle factors can also increase the risk of UTIs, such as:
- Long-term use of urinary catheters
- Pregnancy
- Menopause (due to decreased estrogen hormone)
- Weak immune system
- Kidney stones that block the flow of urine
If not treated promptly, the infection can spread to the upper urinary tract, such as the kidneys, causing pyelonephritis, a serious condition that can cause high fever, back pain, and permanent kidney damage.
5 Signs of Acute UTI to Watch Out For
Acute urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause a variety of symptoms that disrupt daily activities. Unfortunately, many people assume the symptoms are just "regular urinary tract infections" and delay seeing a doctor. However, the longer the infection is left untreated, the greater the risk of spreading to the kidneys.
Here are five signs of an acute UTI that you need to recognize early:
- Nausea and Vomiting
As the infection spreads, the body reacts by causing abdominal discomfort, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms can lead to weakness and fatigue due to dehydration. - Pain or Burning When Urinating
This is the most common symptom of a UTI. When bacteria irritate the walls of the urethra, urination can feel painful, hot, or burning. This pain is often accompanied by a persistent urge to urinate, even if only a small amount of urine is passed.
- Cloudy, Strong-Smelling, or Blood-Containing Urine
Changes in urine color and odor can be signs of infection. Cloudy or strong-smelling urine indicates an increase in bacteria and white blood cell counts. If blood appears in the urine (hematuria), it indicates severe inflammation of the urinary tract. - Fever, Chills, and Body Feeling Weak
A severe UTI can cause high fever and chills as the body fights the infection. Weakness, muscle aches, and general malaise often accompany this condition. - Pain in the Back or Waist
Pain in the lower back or flank is a typical sign that the infection has reached the kidneys. The pain is usually dull but can also be sharp, and tends to worsen with movement or pressure. This condition is called pyelonephritis and is a serious stage of UTI.
How to Treat a Severe Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
If the infection has spread to the kidneys or causes severe symptoms such as high fever, back pain, and vomiting, medical treatment must be carried out immediately.
1. Medical Treatment by a Doctor
In severe UTI cases, patients usually require hospitalization for intensive monitoring. The doctor will administer antibiotics intravenously to combat the bacteria causing the infection. The type of antibiotic prescribed will depend on the urine test results and the severity of the infection.
In addition, patients may also be given additional intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration and help the kidneys work more optimally in removing toxins from the body.
2. Support and Prevention at Home
Once your condition improves, preventive measures are crucial to prevent UTIs from recurring. Several simple habits can help maintain urinary tract health:
- Keep the genital area clean
Clean the feminine area or intimate organs from front to back to prevent the transfer of bacteria from the anus to the urethra. - Change the sanitary napkin
During menstruation, make sure to change your sanitary napkin every 3-4 hours to keep the genital area clean and dry. - Wash your hands before and after touching intimate organs
This step helps prevent the transfer of germs to sensitive areas. - Drink enough water
Water helps dissolve and flush out bacteria through urine. It's recommended to drink at least 6-8 glasses of water per day. - Don't hold in urinating for too long
Holding in urine gives bacteria more time to grow in the bladder. - Use contraception and avoid changing sexual partners.
Because sexual intercourse can increase the risk of bacteria entering the urinary tract.
With proper medical treatment and good hygiene habits, severe urinary tract infections can be completely cured and the risk of recurrence can be minimized.
When Should You Seek Medical Help?
See a doctor immediately if you experience symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI) that don't improve within 1–2 days, or even worsen despite drinking plenty of fluids. Signs such as high fever, back or flank pain, blood in the urine, nausea, and vomiting are signs that the infection may have spread to the kidneys and require immediate medical attention.
Treating a UTI early not only helps relieve symptoms quickly but also prevents the infection from progressing to more serious conditions like permanent kidney damage. So, don't ignore the signs. The sooner you seek help, the better your chances of a full recovery and avoiding complications.
This article was written by Dr. Dicky Stefanus, Sp.U, FICS (Urology Surgeon Specialist at EMC Cibitung Hospital).