Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Mary Brennan Ally Cecchini Jenna Cecil

What is a Urinary Tract Infection? A UTI is an infection occurs when bacteria invade the urinary tract and multiply. It is the second most common infection in the body. Woman are especially prone to UTI’s for an unknown reason. 1 in 5 woman will develop a UTI during their lifetime UTI’s are not as common in men but can be More serious when they occur

What Causes a Urinary Tract infection? Urine is usually sterile, but an infection can occur when bacteria from the digestive tract cling to the opening of the urethra and begin to multiply. Most UTI’s arise from the type of bacteria called Escherichia coli, or E. coli, which normally lives in the colon. Microorganisms called Chlamydia and Mycoplasma may also cause UTI’s in both men and women.

Further Infection Usually, UTI’s are not very serious and are limited to the urethra. This is called urethritis. If bacteria move to the bladder and multiply, a bladder infection, called cystitis, results. If the infection is not treated promptly, bacteria may then travel further up the ureters to multiply and infect the kidneys. A kidney infection is called pyelonephritis.

What are the Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection? Pain or a burning feeling during urination A feeling of urgency, or feeling the need to urinate frequently An altered appearance of the urine, either bloody (red) or cloudy (containing pus) Pain or pressure in the rectum (men) or in the area of the pubic bone (women) Passing only a tiny amount of urine even when the urge to urinate is strong

How is a Urinary Tract Infection Diagnosed? Diagnosis is based on the patient’s symptoms, medical history, medications, habits and lifestyle. A UTI is confirmed by a physical examination and lab tests. The doctor may perform a urine dipstick, which will give results in a matter of minutes. A doctor will sometimes test a “midstream” urine sample for pus and bacteria. A sensitivity test Helps determine the exact bacteria causing the Problem.

More Testing In another lab test, the urinalysis test, the urine is examined for white blood cells and bacteria. Then the bacteria are grown in a culture and tested against different antibiotics to find the best. Blood tests are required only if kidney infection is suspected.

How is a Urinary Tract Infection Treated? UTI’s are treated with antibacterial drugs. The choice of drug and length of treatment depend on the patient's history and the urine test results. The sensitivity test is especially useful in helping the doctor select the most effective drug. Also: Drink plenty of water Quit Smoking Avoid spicy foods, coffee, and alcohol Use a hot water bottle and pain medication to ease pain

Types of Drugs Used to Treat Urinary Tract Infections The drugs most often used to treat uncomplicated UTIs are: Trimethoprim Trimethoprim/ Sulfamethoxaole Amoxicilin Nitrofurantin Ampicillin Often, a UTI can be cured with 1 or 2 days of treatment if the infection is not complicated by an obstruction or other disorder.

After Before

Bibliography: Information http://www.emedicinehealth.com/urinary_tract_infections/article_em.htm http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/urinary-tract-infection/DS00286

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