URINARY TRACT INFECTION

Urinary tract infections are so common that most people will probably be infected at least one in their lifetime. Many people believe these infections are not so serious that a dose of antibiotics or an increased intake of water can fix it.

If urinary tract infections are not properly treated, it can progress to something more serious. Women are more partucularly prone to it partly due to the close anatomical proximity of the vagina and urethra. A urinary tract infection can affect any part of the urinary tract - the kidneys, bladder, ureter or urethra. It occurs when the bacteria enters the urethra and begins to multiply. If the infection is restricted to the urethra,, it is referred to as urethritis. If the bacteria move up into the bladder, cystitis develops.

Although the prime cause of urinary tract infection is bacteria, other factors such as lack of fluid intake does play a role but the primary cause is the spread of the infection from the urinary tract to the urethra. Those who suffer from diabetes and weakened immune system are at a higher risk. Even kidney stones and enlarged prostate glands in men increase risk of urinary tract infections.

Some of the common things you can do to prevent urinary infections are by drinking plenty of fluids as more fluids can help flush out unwanted bacteria. Try to go to the toilet as soon as you feel the urge to do so. Forr women, refrain from using potentially irritating feminine products such as douches and feminine sprays. Cranberry juice has also been shown to prevent urinary tract infections

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