Common Causes for UTIs
Urinary tract infections, also known as UTIs, are infections of the urethra, bladder, or kidneys. Most UTIs affect the urethra or bladder and are known as “lower tract” infections. If left untreated, they can spread to the kidneys and cause an upper tract infection. Severe UTIs can even spread from the kidneys to the blood, leading to sepsis.
At DOCCS Urgent Care in Melbourne, Florida, our team of medical professionals can quickly test for and diagnose a UTI and let you know how serious it is. We can also prescribe medication to both ease your painful symptoms and your difficulty urinating, as well as treat the infection with antibiotics.
UTI risks
UTIs are more common in women than in men due to a shorter urethra. However, men can experience urinary tract infections as well. Urinary tract infections should be treated quickly to prevent the spread of infection, and you should avoid behaviors or habits that put you at risk for UTIs.
The primary risk factor for urinary tract infections is simply being a woman. While this cannot be avoided, the cause of your UTI might be traced back to certain habits, and you can take steps to avoid behaviors that may lead to infections.
UTI prevention
There are ways you can help prevent UTIs, including:
Wear breathable undies
Your undergarments should be breathable, loose, and not slip around from front to back. Thongs can drag bacteria from your anus to your vagina and urethra, while tight underwear can trap sweat and bacteria close to your skin.
Don’t hold your pee
Students, employees, and extremely focused people often find themselves holding their urine longer than they should. This puts you at risk of a UTI. You should flush your bladder and urethra as much as possible, and this means going to the bathroom whenever you feel the need and emptying your bladder completely
Drink enough water
Dehydration plays a large part in urinary tract infections. When you don’t drink enough water, your body becomes dehydrated, and you don’t urinate as much. This sets the stage for a urinary tract infection.
Wipe the right way
Wiping back-to-front encourages the spread of bacteria to your urethra, including E.coli, which is the bacterium behind many UTIs. Always wipe front-to-back, away from your urethra.
Gear up properly for bike rides
Women who regularly ride bicycles experience higher rates of UTIs. The pressure of the seat encourages the spread of bacteria, compresses the urethra, and traps sweat against the skin. Make sure to wear proper clothing, drink lots of water, and change undergarments after bicycling.
Practice hygienic sex
Sex can lead to urinary tract infections, especially if you are having more sex than usual. Sex can be messy, and bacteria can find their way into your urethra. You can avoid UTIs by urinating after sex, staying on top of your regular hygiene routine, and making sure you and your partner practice hygienic sex.
Avoid high stress levels
Stress-induced UTIs are extremely common, especially in women. The hormones in your body, combined with bad stress-related habits, can lead to a heightened risk of a UTI. Try to reduce your stress levels as much as possible.
If you think you have a UTI, it’s best to stop it as soon as possible with proper treatment, Call our center at 321-752-7100 or book an appointment online.