Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common health problem that is most common among women, but can also affect men and young children. In medical terms, these are called urinary tract infections (UTIs) .

Recently married, 26-year-old Nirasha came to see Dr. Priya, terrified by the intense burning sensation she felt when urinating, the need to urinate frequently but only a small amount, and pain in her lower abdomen. Through our discussion with her, we will learn scientifically about the causes of urinary tract infections, the red signs of kidney infections, and ways to prevent them.

Doctor-patient dialogue: "Is this a sexually transmitted disease, doctor?"

Nirasha (worried): "Dr. Priya, I am a recently married woman. I have been experiencing severe burning and lower abdominal pain while urinating for a while. I feel the need to urinate frequently, but I only pass very little. The color of my urine has also changed and it smells bad. Is this a urinary tract infection (UTI), doctor? Should I be worried about this?"

Dr. Priya (comforting Nirasha): "Nirasha, don't worry. This is a very common disease among women. Since the urethra in women is shorter than that of men and is located closer to the anus , E. coli bacteria that live in the intestines easily enter the urethra."

"There is a high risk of this bacteria being pushed into the bladder, especially during sexual intercourse. This is common among newly married women, so in medical terms it is also called honeymoon cystitis . This is not a sexually transmitted disease (STD)."

Dr. Priya: "The condition that occurs when these bacteria infect the bladder is called cystitis . If this is left untreated, the bacteria can travel up the urethra and infect the kidneys. This is called pyelonephritis and is a serious condition."

🚨 Red Flags that require immediate medical attention

The following are dangerous signs that indicate that a urinary tract infection has spread to the kidneys or has turned into sepsis, a condition in which germs spread throughout the body. If these appear, you should go to the hospital immediately:

1. High fever with chills: A high fever with shivering and chills (a key sign of a kidney infection).
2. Flank pain: Severe pain in the back above the waist or in the flank area on either side of the body.
3. Persistent vomiting and nausea: Vomiting to the point where the body is unable to retain any food or water.
4. Blood in the urine (Hematuria): Red or pink urine.
5. Drowsiness or confusion: When a urinary tract infection occurs, especially in the elderly, people may suddenly become drowsy or slurred speech without a fever.

🛠️ Action Steps to follow to control a urinary tract infection

• Step 1: Drink at least 2-3 liters of water daily. This will help flush out bacteria that may be lodged in the urethra.
• Step 2: As soon as symptoms appear, see a doctor and get a urinalysis (UFR) and urine culture done.
• Step 3: Continue taking the prescribed dose of antibiotics (e.g. Nitrofurantoin, Cephalexin or Amoxicillin) for the prescribed number of days. Do not stop taking the medication even if your symptoms improve within two days.
• Step Four: Clean the genital area by urinating before and after sex.
• Step Five: Maintain hygiene. Always wipe from front to back after using the toilet.

📊 Do's & Don'ts

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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#### Can drinking cranberry juice prevent urinary tract infections?

The sugary cranberry drinks available in the market do not prevent urinary tract infections. However, some research has found that sugar-free pure cranberry extract tablets prevent E. coli bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall. Therefore, it can be used under medical advice.

#### What are the causes of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)?

Having a urinary tract infection more than twice a year or twice in 6 months is called recurrent urinary tract infections. This can be caused by conditions such as diabetes, urinary tract stones, an enlarged prostate, or a decrease in the body's estrogen hormone after menopause.

#### What happens if a urinary tract infection is left untreated?

If left untreated, the infection can spread from the bladder to the kidneys, causing a kidney infection (pyelonephritis). This can cause permanent damage to the kidneys and can cause the germs to enter the bloodstream, causing a deadly, body-wide infection called sepsis.

#### Are urinary tract infections (UTI) dangerous during pregnancy?

Yes. The risk of kidney infections is very high during pregnancy due to hormonal changes in the body and the pressure of the uterus. If a pregnant mother develops a urinary tract infection and is not treated, it can lead to premature birth or low birth weight of the baby.

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📖 Sources and Scientific References

• NHS (UK) Guidance on Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): NHS UTIs Overview (Accessed 2026)
• NCBI Bookshelf Clinical Review: Urinary Tract Infection (StatPearls - NBK470195)