Frequent UTI - Why do some people get them?
A UTI may affect any part of the urinary tract The most common UTI is a bladder infection. It is usually caused by the bacteria Escherichia coli (E. Coli), a bacteria that is found in the bowels. If it enters into the urinary tract it can cause an infection to develop. Another way the urinary tract can become infected is if the flow of urine through the urinary system is not sufficient enough to flush bacteria out.
A chronic urinary tract infection is an ongoing or recurring infection of the urinary tract. Recurrent urinary tract infections can happen when the tract gets re-infected or if the treatment did not completely clear the infection. You may be diagnosed with chronic UTI if you had three positive urine cultures during a 12-month period or two infections in the last six months.
The expert Urologists at Urology of Greater Atlanta, in Metro Atlanta, can help with your UTI needs, including medication, pain relief, and prevention. Call or book online today for an appointment.
Why Does My UTI Keep Coming Back?
Recurrent UTIs or chronic UTIs may be influenced by certain risk factors. They include:
- Birth Sex. Those who are born female are more likely to have recurring UTIs because their urethra is shorter making it easier for bacteria to get into the bladder.
- Hormonal changes. The time of the month, pregnancy, or menopause can all affect the possibility of recurrent bladder infections.
- Birth control method. Spermicides and diaphragms can kill off the good bacteria allowing bad bacteria to flourish.
- Urinary tract abnormalities. Genetics or even injuries to your urethra can alter its shape or size.
- Sexual activity. Sexual intercourse can be the cause of recurrent infections.
- Personal Hygiene. Some scented feminine products can increase your UTI risk. The way you cleanse yourself after using the toilet can also make a difference.
- Chronic illness. If your immune system is weakened by a disease such as diabetes.
- Enlarged prostate. It can put pressure on your bladder neck causing urinary retention.
- Dehydration. Less urine flow leads to a build-up of bacteria inside the tract.
How Do I Stop Recurring Urinary Tract Infections?
Here are some Dos and Don’ts of UTI prevention.
Do
- Keep your genital area clean and dry
- Wipe from front to back when you go to the toilet
- Stay hydrated
- Drink cranberry juice
- Wash before and after sex
- Pee soon after sex
- Change nappies or incontinence pads promptly, if they’re soiled
Don’t
- Don’t hold your pee in when you feel the urge to go
- Don’t use scented soap
- Don’t drink lots of alcoholic drinks, as they may irritate your bladder
- Don’t consume lots of sugary food or drinks, as they may encourage bacteria to grow
- Don’t wear tight, synthetic underwear, such as nylon
- Don’t use condoms or diaphragms with spermicides
Contact Us
At Urology of Greater Atlanta, located in Metro Atlanta, our top-rated physicians treat UTIs in men and women. If you display any UTI symptoms, contact the office by phone or online to book a consultation and begin immediate antimicrobial treatment.
