What is UTI?
UTI is a type of infection that can occur anywhere in your urinary system, including your urinary tract. It happens when bacteria enter your body through the urinary tract and reach the kidneys, bladder, ureters, or urethra.
Can Men Get UTI?
Yes, men can get UTI, but the risk is much lower compared to females. In men, UTI most commonly occurs in the bladder (where urine is stored) and the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body).
How Do Men Get UTI and What are the Causes?
The main cause of UTI in men is Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria, which is commonly found in our intestines. This bacteria can enter the male urinary tract due to poor hygiene, sexual activity, or even during regular toilet use. The E. coli bacteria have tiny hair-like structures that help them stick to the walls of the urinary tract, where they start to grow in large numbers, causing inflammation in the urinary tract and making it difficult to urinate.
When urine doesn’t flow properly, the infection worsens. To fight the infection, your immune system sends white blood cells to the infected area, which leads to symptoms like burning during urination, frequent urination, or bad-smelling urine.
UTI Other causes include:
- Enlarged prostate: Can obstruct urine flow, leading to infection.
- Kidney stones: Stones can cause blockages, making UTIs more likely.
- Diabetes: Weakens the immune system, increasing the risk.
- Catheter use: Prolonged catheter use can introduce bacteria.
- Weak immune system: Makes men more susceptible to infections.
4 Symptoms of UTI in Men
UTI symptoms in men include these 4 symptoms
- Burning sensation during urination
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Prevention of UTI in Men
Practice good hygiene: Maintain cleanliness, especially after toilet use or sexual activity.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out bacteria from the urinary system.
Avoid holding in urine: Holding in urine for long periods can promote bacterial growth.
Conclusion
UTIs are less common in men, but they can occur, especially if risk factors like poor hygiene, an enlarged prostate, or diabetes are present. Good hygiene, staying hydrated, and recognizing symptoms early are key to preventing UTIs. If symptoms appear, seek medical advice promptly.
Source:- 1. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/8123739_Urinary_tract_infection_in_men
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK436013/
This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment. Do not ignore or delay professional medical advice based on anything you have seen or read on Medwiki.
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