Urinary tract infections are on the rise — it it related to your refrigerator?

 

                                                  Picture Courtesy : National Geographic

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur when bacteria enter the urethra and make their way into the urinary tract, leading to an infection. This can happen due to various reasons, including sexual activity, genetic factors, or poor hygiene practices, such as not wiping properly after using the bathroom.

UTIs are the most common infections treated outside of hospitals in the United States. In fact, they affect about 50-60% of women at some point in their lives. Moreover, about one in four women will experience repeated infections within six months of the first one.

While anyone can get a UTI, women are about 30 times more likely to develop them than men. This is mainly because women have shorter urethras, which are located closer to the anus—a common source of bacteria. The groups most at risk for UTIs include sexually active women, older women, and both men and women with weakened immune systems. Additionally, certain lifestyle factors, such as using spermicides, having a new sexual partner, or not urinating after sexual activity, can increase the risk of developing a UTI.

Most UTIs are not considered dangerous when they are limited to the bladder. They often resolve on their own, but doctors usually prescribe antibiotics to help speed up recovery, reducing the duration from weeks to just a few days. However, if a UTI spreads beyond the bladder to the kidneys, bloodstream, or other parts of the reproductive system, it can lead to severe complications. These may include blood poisoning (sepsis), kidney damage, or even kidney failure.

If left untreated, a very small percentage of UTIs can become life-threatening. Dr. Jacob Lazarus, an infectious disease physician at Massachusetts General Hospital and a bacterial cell biologist at Harvard Medical School, warns that these severe cases can pose a significant risk to health, underscoring the importance of seeking medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.

In summary, while UTIs are common and often manageable, it’s crucial to recognize the symptoms and seek timely treatment, especially if you are in a higher-risk group. Early intervention can prevent the infection from spreading and leading to more serious health issues.