Urinary Tract Infection Causes

As the name rightly suggests, a urinary tract infection or UTI affects any part of the urinary system, which consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. However, the lower parts of the urinary system such as the urethra and the bladder are found to be the most commonly infected. Even though the infection in the lower parts of the urinary tract can cause annoying symptoms, it becomes fatal, as it spread to higher parts like the kidneys. An infection of the urethra is called urethritis and when the bladder gets affected, the condition is called cystitis. When UTI affects the kidneys, it is termed as pyelonephritis.

Studies show that urinary tract infection is the most common type of infection in humans, after respiratory tract infections. As compared to men, women are more prone to this condition, due to their anatomy. Even children can get affected with urinary tract infections, but, it is not common as in adults. However, UTI in children can be far more serious, as compared to adults. While most women have chances of getting affected with UTI at least once in their lifetime, around 10% to 15% of men too have such possibilities. However, recurrent episodes of UTI are common in women as compared to men. At least 20% of women affected with UTI may develop this condition for a second time in their lifetime and 80% of that category have chances of getting recurrent urinary tract infections.

Causes of Urinary Tract Infections

There are various types of pathogens that can cause urinary tract infections, but bacteria is found to be the most common one. Bacteria enters the urinary tract through the urethra and causes infection. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the bladder, ureters and kidneys. In case of women, the urethra is closely located to the vagina and anus, making it more susceptible to attack of intestinal or vaginal microorganisms. A basic understanding about the common urinary tract infection causes will help you to prevent the condition to some extent.

E.Coli Infection: As mentioned above, the most common cause of UTI is bacterial infection, and the Escherichia coli or E. coli is the most common causal agent. This bacteria is found in the colon and sometimes around the anus. In case of women, the spread of bacteria to the urethra is often caused by poor hygienic practices or sexual intercourse. There are various other risk factors, that contribute to urinary tract infection. Risk factors include any type of obstruction to the flow of urine like an enlarged prostate, spinal injury or kidney stones. These conditions can also cause accumulation of urine, resulting in bacterial infection. People with AIDS or diabetes are also at an increased risk of developing urinary tract infections.

Urinary tract infection causes in women include use of a diaphragm for birth control. In some cases, use of condoms is also found to be a risk factor for UTI. In children it could be due to poor hygiene, especially wiping habits. However, abnormality in the urinary tract, like a partial blockage, has to be ruled out with proper diagnosis. Infants may develop this condition through bacteria that gain entry to the blood stream from other body parts. In case of some hospitalized persons, prolonged use of catheters can be a cause of urinary infection.

Other Causal Agents: Apart from E.coli, urinary tract infections can be caused by other microorganisms too. They include chlamydia and mycoplasma, which can cause UTI in both men and women. It has been observed that the infection caused by these microorganisms are often limited to the urethra and the reproductive system. In most cases, these microorganisms are sexually transmitted and requires treatment of both partners.

As the primary cause for urinary tract infection is bacteria, the condition can be prevented to some extent with good hygiene, timely treatment and intake of lots of water. The risk factors have to be taken care of. Usually, antibiotics are used for treatment.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.