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Kidney And Urinary Tract Infections |
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Urinary tract infections are infections of the urinary tract that can involve:
- the urethra, the tube that takes urine from the bladder to outside the body
- the bladder
- the ureters, tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder
- the kidneys, the organs that strain and remove toxic wastes from the blood into the urine which is expelled by the body
Most urinary tract infections result from germs moving up the urethra into the bladder. The anal area is a major source of these germs. The female urethra is shorter than in males making females more likely to get an infection. Chemicals in prostate fluid may also act to protect men. Urinary tract infections may lead to kidney infections. If untreated, kidney infections may cause high blood pressure or kidney failure. So, early treatment of urinary tract infections is important. SOME FACTORS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO INFECTION ARE: - irritation from feminine hygiene spray
- irritation from sexual intercourse
- bladder stones that block urine flow and irritate linings
- a swollen prostate gland
- pregnancy
- nerve problems affecting the bladder
- having a catheter in the bladder
- using a diaphragm and spermicide for birth control
- history of urinary tract infections
- sexually transmitted diseases
A PERSON WITH A URINARY TRACT INFECTION MAY HAVE THE FOLLOWING SYMPTOMS: - an urgent and frequent need to urinate
- pain or a feeling of burning during urination
- cramps in the bladder
- discharge from the urethra (in men)
- blood in the urine
- fever and chills
- tenderness over the bladder area
There may also be pain in the area of the kidneys, on either side of the spine just above the waist. In older people it is not uncommon to have diarrhoea, but not to have any bladder symptoms at all. High counts of bacteria in urine confirm an infection. Your doctor may also order other kidney tests. Most infections respond well to treatment using medications. It is important to take all of your medication as ordered. It is also important to report any unresolved symptoms to your doctor. Article #5264 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
