Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Treatment

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that can affect any part of the urinary tract. UTIs usually occur in the bladder (cystitis), urethra (urethritis) and kidneys (pielonephritis). The most common cause is the growth of bacteria that enter the urinary tract. Escherichiacoli (E. coli) is the most common bacteria that causes urinary tract infections. Women are more prone to urinary tract infections than men because their urethra is shorter than men's, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.

Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary tract infections can present with the following symptoms:

• Frequent need to urinate
• Pain or burning when urinating
• Urine is cloudy, smelly or bloody
• Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic area
• Fever (especially in kidney infections)
• Fatigue and weakness

Urinary Tract Infection Treatment

Treatment for UTIs usually depends on the type and severity of the infection. Treatment methods include antibiotics, plenty of fluids and symptom-relieving measures.

1. Antibiotic Treatment

Treatment of infection Antibiotics is the most important treatment option. Antibiotic treatment varies depending on the type of infection and the sensitivity of the bacteria. The most commonly used antibiotics are:

• Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole(TMP-SMX)
• Nitrofurantoin
• Fosfomycin
• Amoxicillinand derivatives
• Cephalosporins(e.g. cephalexin)
• Quinolones(e.g. ciprofloxacin)

Antibiotic treatment usually lasts for a few days (5-7 days), but in some cases longer treatment may be needed, especially in the case of recurrent infections or kidney infections.

2. Pain and Symptom Relief Medicines

In addition to antibiotic treatment, some medicines can be used to relieve the pain and burning caused by the infection:

• Phenazopyridinemedicines to relieve urinary tract pain, such as medicines for urinary tract pain, can help relieve symptoms such as pain when urinating, burning and frequent urination.
• Painkillers: Painkillers such as paracetamol (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can be used to help reduce fever.

3. Plenty of Fluid Consumption

Drinking plenty of fluids encourages frequent and regular urination and helps remove bacteria from the urinary tract. Drinking water is important to ensure that urine is cleared. It is also recommended to avoid acidic drinks (e.g. citrus juice), as some drinks can cause irritation to the bladder.

4. Urinary Tract Hygiene

• Good hygiene: An important way to prevent urinary tract infections is to keep the genital area clean. Cleaning from front to back after using the toilet can help prevent bacteria from reaching the urethra.
• Underwear: Cotton underwear should be preferred because cotton helps absorb moisture and prevents bacteria from multiplying. Synthetic fabrics trap moisture and can cause bacterial growth.

5. Probiotics

Some research suggests that probiotics may help prevent urinary tract infections. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support the immune system and lactobacillus probiotics can help balance the urinary tract flora, especially after antibiotic treatment.

Treatment of Kidney Infections (Pielonephritis)

Infections in the kidneys are more serious and usually require hospitalization. Because such infections can lead to a systemic infection in the body, antibiotic treatment may be started intravenously (IV). In severe cases, the patient will receive antibiotics and fluids intravenously. If left untreated, kidney infection can lead to kidney damage and sepsis.

Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections

To prevent urinary tract infections, it is important to follow these recommendations:

1. Drink plenty of water: Drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water a day can help prevent urinary tract infections.
2. Toilet habits: When the urge to urinate comes, it is important to go to the toilet without waiting and to empty the urine completely.
3. Cleaning after sexual intercourse: Urinating after sexual intercourse can prevent bacteria from entering the urinary tract.
4. Hygiene: Keeping the genital area clean, bathing frequently and using cotton underwear can reduce the risk of infection.
5. Early intervention for suspicious symptoms: If symptoms of a UTI occur, consulting a doctor immediately will make the treatment process easier.