What is a Urinary Tract Infection?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a very common type of infection in the urinary system. UTIs usually occur when bacteria, typically Escherichia coli, or E. coli for short, find their way into the urethra and start multiplying in the bladder. E. coli is the same bacteria that is commonly found in our digestive tract. E. coli bacteria has tiny finger-like projections called fimbria, which allows them to cling to the inner walls of your bladder. E. coli can even work its way up to your ureters and kidneys.
Our urinary system usually does a good job at keeping these microscopic invaders out, but sometimes, those defenses can fail, and that's when trouble starts. Those pesky bacteria can take hold and lead to a full-blown infection. The most common UTIs affect the bladder and urethra:
- Bladder infections (cystitis) are usually caused by E. coli. Sexual intercourse can also sometimes lead to cystitis, but you don't have to be sexually active to develop a UTI. It can happen to anyone.
- Infections of the urethra (urethritis) are a type of UTI that can happen when bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract find their way into the urethra. For women, it's important to be aware that the female urethra is located close to the vagina. As a result, sexually transmitted infections like herpes, gonorrhea, and chlamydia can also lead to urethritis.
When it comes to UTIs, it's crucial to address them promptly. If left untreated, those bacteria can start to multiply and make their way up the ureters, causing an infection in the kidneys.
Who Gets Urinary Tract Infections?
More than half of women will have at least one UTI at some point in their life.1 About 26% of women will have a recurrence during the six months after the initial infection.2 So, with each UTI, the chances of getting more of them increase. Some women even have to deal with three or more UTIs in a year. It can be quite a frustrating cycle.
And it's not just women who can get UTIs; men of all ages are susceptible too. But women are more prone to these infections due to their anatomy. The distance between the bladder and the urethral opening is relatively short in women, and that opening is quite close to both the vaginal opening and the anus. This makes it easier for bacteria to move around and cause trouble.
But here's something interesting - it's not just E. coli that can cause UTIs. Certain sexually transmitted infections like trichomoniasis and chlamydia can also be to blame.
There are some factors that can increase your risk of getting UTIs. Stress, a weakened immune system, poor diet, and even damage to the urethra from childbirth or surgery can make you more predisposed to these infections. Also, after having sex with a new partner (some call it "honeymoon cystitis") or after a period of not having sex, UTIs can be more likely to occur.
What are the Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection?
Urinary tract infections don't always cause signs and symptoms, but when they do they may include:
- Painful, burning sensation when urinating
- A strong, persistent urge to urinate
- Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
- Urine that appears cloudy
- Urine that appears red, bright pink or cola-colored — a sign of blood in the urine
- Strong-smelling urine
- Pelvic pain, in women
- Rectal pain, in men
- Back pain, fever, or chills (indicating a kidney infection)
- UTIs may be overlooked or mistaken for other conditions in older adults.
What Should I do if I Think I Have a Urinary Tract Infection?
If you notice any signs and symptoms of a UTI, don't hesitate to contact your doctor. They can prescribe the right antibiotic to cure the infection.
But in the meantime, to stop your excruciating pain, burning, and urgency, use URIcalm Urinary Pain relief tablets. URIcalm has the highest dose available of over-the-counter phenazopyridine hydrochloride, a clinically proven ingredient that works to promptly stop pain at the site of the infection.
Can I Prevent a Urinary Tract Infection?
Preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs) is definitely possible.
First and foremost, make sure to drink plenty of water every day. Staying hydrated is key to maintaining overall urinary tract health and can play a significant role in preventing UTIs.
Additionally, you might want to consider taking a daily supplement specifically designed to support urinary tract health. These supplements can help keep your natural defenses in top shape, reducing the risk of UTIs. Studies have shown that both cranberries and D-Mannose supplements are beneficial in lowering the chances of developing UTIs.*.
Cranberries for Urinary Tract Health:
Many women hear about cranberries from friends, family, or even online sources. It turns out, researchers believe that cranberries contain special substances that can stop infection-causing bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract.
There are a couple of different theories about how cranberries work. Some studies suggest that certain antioxidants in cranberries can change the bacteria in a way that makes it hard for them to stick to the urinary tract. Another idea is that cranberries create a Teflon-like slippery coating on the urinary tract walls, making it tough for E. coli to get a good grip*.
Not everyone is a fan of the tartness and acidity of cranberry juice, or the added sugar and calories that come with it. If that's the case for you, there is a great solution - you can opt for a daily cranberry supplement like great-tasting URIcalm Cranberry Chewables with D-Mannose. It's a more convenient and delicious way to get the benefits of cranberries without any fuss.
D-Mannose for Urinary Tract Health:
D-Mannose is a simple sugar that, when taken daily, can help keep your urinary tract healthy*.
D-mannose helps prevent E. coli from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract and supports the body in eliminating these pesky bacteria. It's like a boost to your natural defenses, helping you maintain a healthy urinary tract*.
Here's the fascinating part - D-mannose is more attracted to E. coli than it is to our human cells. So, when we take D-mannose, some of it ends up in our urine through our kidneys. It's like a coating washing away any E. coli present, so they can no longer stick to the inside walls of the bladder and urinary tract. They get flushed away with normal urination.
Top Tips To Help Keep Your Urinary Tract Healthy:
- Drink water, even when you aren't thirsty
- Take a daily supplement designed to help support your urinary tract health, such as URIcalm Cranberry Chewables with D-Mannose*
- Urinate when you feel the need - don't try to hold it in
- Cleanse your vaginal area prior to sex
- Urinate immediately after sex
- Wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from entering your urethra
- Avoid using potentially irritating feminine hygiene products, such as sprays, powders, and douches, which may irritate your urethra
- Use only white unscented toilet paper to avoid potential dye reactions
- Change out of wet bathing suits as soon as you are able
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
- Bergamin, P.A., Kiosoglous, A.J. (2017). Non-surgical management of recurrent urinary tract infections in women. (link https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28791233/) Translational Andrology and Urology; 6(Suppl 2): S142-S152.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557479/
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