Common health problems that affect millions of people across the globe include urinary tract infection. Actually, UTIs account for more than 8 million doctor visits every year in the United States. Despite this fact, UTIs still remain surrounded by lots of misconceptions and unknown facts. Herein, we will discuss five things you probably don’t know about urinary tract infections but should.
1. UTIs are not just a women’s health issue.
First, UTIs are not solely a women’s health issue. While it is true that women are more susceptible to UTIs due to their anatomy, men can also develop UTIs, particularly those over the age of 50. The prostate gland, which is only found in men, can contribute to UTI risk as men age. The prostate can enlarge and obstruct the urethra, making it more difficult for urine to flow out of the body. This creates a favorable environment for bacterial growth, leading to UTIs (Mayo Clinic, 2021). Moreover, people of all ages and genders can develop UTIs due to factors such as weakened immune systems, catheter use, and sexual activity. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize that UTIs can affect anyone, regardless of gender.
2. Drinking cranberry juice may not prevent UTIs.
Second, drinking cranberry juice may not prevent UTIs. Cranberry juice has long been touted as a natural remedy for preventing UTIs, particularly among women. However, recent research has questioned the effectiveness of cranberry juice in preventing UTIs. A 2012 systematic review of 24 studies found that cranberry products had no significant effect on UTI risk (Liu et al., 2012). Similarly, a 2016 randomized controlled trial found that consuming cranberry juice did not reduce the risk of UTIs in women (Jepson et al., 2016). These findings suggest that cranberry juice may not be an effective preventative measure against UTIs.
Cranberries contain compounds called proanthocyanidins (PACs) that have been shown to inhibit the ability of E. coli, the most common cause of UTIs, to attach to the bladder wall (Howell et al., 1998). However, the amount of PACs needed to prevent UTIs is high, and a typical glass of cranberry juice does not contain enough PACs to provide a significant therapeutic effect (Jepson et al., 2016). Moreover, the acidity of cranberry juice can exacerbate symptoms of UTIs and cause discomfort for some individuals.
3. UTIs can cause serious complications if left untreated.
It is important to understand that UTIs can cause serious complications if left untreated. Many people think of UTIs as a minor inconvenience, but if left untreated, they can lead to a condition called pyelonephritis, which is an infection of the kidneys. Pyelonephritis can cause high fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, it can even lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition. This occurs when the bacteria from the UTI enters the bloodstream, causing a systemic infection. It is estimated that up to 30% of people with untreated pyelonephritis will develop sepsis (Mayo Clinic, 2021). Pregnant women who develop a UTI are also at risk for developing pyelonephritis, which can lead to preterm labor and low birth weight in newborns.
4. Antibiotics are not always necessary for treating UTIs.
While antibiotics are the most common treatment for UTIs, they are not always necessary. In fact, about 25% of UTIs can resolve on their own without antibiotics. This is because UTIs can be caused by both bacteria and non-bacterial factors, such as irritation or inflammation. In these cases, drinking plenty of water and using over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate symptoms. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, antibiotics may be necessary to treat the underlying bacterial infection.
5. There are ways to prevent UTIs.
While UTIs are common and can be difficult to prevent, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Some tips for preventing UTIs include:
– Drink plenty of water to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.
– Urinate before and after sexual activity to flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urinary tract.
– Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom to prevent bacteria from the anus from entering the urethra.
– Avoid using irritating products, such as douches or scented feminine hygiene products.
– Practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands before and after using the bathroom.
In conclusion, UTIs are a common health problem and can happen to virtually anybody—by no means are these peculiar to women. Where the cranberry juice method will not prevent these infections in any way, there are typical ways of minimizing chances of being infected with UTI. Treatment for UTIs is necessary; otherwise, it will lead to serious complications. Knowing these lesser-known facts about UTIs, you will be in a better position to safeguard from this health problem that is so common and often discomforted for you and your dear ones.
