Condition: Urinary Tract Infection (Uti)

A UTI or urinary tract infection is the result of harmful bacteria anywhere in the urinary system. The urinary system includes the urethra (tube leading from the bladder to the outside of the body), the bladder and the kidneys. Most UTI’s occur in the urethra or the bladder (in the bladder a UTI is also known as cystitis). Symptoms of UTI’s include a burning sensation during urination, increased frequency and urgency of urination, and dark cloudy urine. Symptoms of urinary tract infections can also include fever, nausea, and loss of appetite in the young and the elderly. UTI symptoms usually occur for 4-6 days. Although urinary tract infections can clear up on their own they can also spread. It is important to visit a doctor if you suspect a urinary tract infection so they can prescribe antibiotics. Antibiotics are the most common form of treatment for urinary tract infections. Risk factors of urinary tract infections include gender (women are more prone to UTI’s), genetic factors, age (elderly men are more prone to UTI’s than younger men), pregnancy and catheters.