Urinary tract infection: what are the symptoms, causes and treatment?

A burning sensation while passing urine, frequent urination and pain in the lower abdomen can be signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI). More common in women, it can also affect men, children and the elderly. Timely treatment can cure it, but if neglected the infection can spread to the kidneys and cause serious problems.

A UTI is an infection by microorganisms in the kidneys, bladder, ureters or urethra. The main cause is Escherichia coli, a bacterium normally found in the gut, entering the urinary tract. A bladder infection is called cystitis; if it spreads to the kidneys it is called pyelonephritis.

A US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study says about 50 to 80 percent of women are likely to develop the infection at least once in their lifetime. Women's shorter urethra lets bacteria reach the bladder easily, and pregnancy, sexual activity and falling estrogen levels after menopause can raise the risk.

Some pregnant women carry bacteria in their urine without symptoms; a study in India estimates this at about 13.5 percent. Untreated infection can spread to the kidneys and sometimes raises the risk of premature birth or low birth weight, so a urine culture test and pregnancy-safe medicines should be used on a doctor's advice.

In men, infections are less common, but the prostate gland enlarges with age, obstructing urine flow and raising the risk; kidney stones, diabetes and prostate infections add to it. Burning, difficulty urinating, fever or blood in the urine warrant a doctor's visit, and a complete stop of urine needs immediate help.

Treatment is with antibiotics on a doctor's advice, completing the full course. Drinking enough water, not delaying urination and personal hygiene help prevent infection; persistent or recurrent symptoms need medical consultation.