Don’t ignore UTI, it can lead to kidney infection

by Dr. Ravish I R

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Posted on : Sep 30, 2021

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Infection is one's urinary tract can lead to serious infection and could endanger life. Our urinary tract consists of two kidneys, ureters, and bladder containing urethra. The main function of the urinary system is to produce urine in our body.

Urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria enter and multiply in the urinary system. If the infection isn't treated on time, it causes the bacteria to travel up to the kidney, resulting in a severe type of infection called pyelonephritis.

Symptoms of UTI: The common symptoms of UTI are urgency to urinate, frequent urination, burning sensation during urination, pressure or lower abdominal pain, blood-tinged or cloudy urine and strong odour in the urine. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical help from best Urologist in Bangalore.

UTIs don't necessarily cause harm to the kidneys. If the issue is left untreated, however, then the infection may spread. A kidney infection requires medical or surgical care, and can permanently damage the kidneys if ignored. Often, the bacteria can spread into the bloodstream and cause life-threatening sepsis. So, if you are unsure about the infection that can damage your kidneys, consult the best Kidney Specialist in Bangalore.

 

Risk factors of UTI:

  • Females are more likely to be affected by urinary tract infection because their urethra is shorter than it is in men. This makes it easier for bacteria to travel to the bladder. Pregnant women are at a much greater risk.

  • A blockage in the urinary tract that may delay urine flow or decrease the capacity of the bladder to drain may cause the infection. The blockage may be due to kidney stone, any defect in the structure of the urinary tract or an enlarged prostate gland (in men).

  • A weakened immune system also increases the chance of having a history of health or medication.

  • Any nerve damage around the bladder.

  • Urinary catheter, which is a tube used to drain urine from the bladder when an individual is limited to bed due to sickness or surgery.

  • If a person suffers from a condition that causes the urine to flow back into the ureters and kidneys in the wrong direction. To know more about the risk factors, visit the best Kidney Hospital in Bangalore.

Complications involved in a kidney infection:

  • Kidney scarring may also lead to chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure, and kidney failure.

  • Septicemia or blood poisoning from kidney infection caused due to bacteria that spread into the bloodstream.

  • Pregnancy complications can occur when the kidney is infected, particularly the risk of delivering babies with low birth weight.

Infection of the kidneys that results from UTI is indeed a serious concern and needs proper medical attention as soon as possible. Since prevention is always better than cure, though, here are some lifestyle changes:

  • Intake of sufficient fluids which helps in removing bacteria from the body during urination

  • Try not to delay urination if you feel the urge to.

  • Clean the vaginal introitus pre and post-sexual intercourse.

  • Empty the bladder immediately after the intercourse as that also helps clear the urethra bacteria.

  • Be careful while wiping from front to back after urinating and post bowel movement can also help prevent bacteria from spreading to the urethra.

  • Avoid the use of products such as deodorant sprays in your genital area.

Are you facing a problem related to the kidney? Book an appointment online with the best Urology Hospital in Bangalore.