UTI or Urine tract infection in Hindi also known as मूत्र मार्ग संक्रमण is a microbial infection. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria but sometimes fungi and viruses can also cause UTIs, making it one of the most common infections in humans. UTI can happen in any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, prostate (only in males), and the urethra. However, most people suffer from lower tract UTI which is spread by the infection in the urinary bladder and the urethra.

Comparatively, adults are more susceptible to urine infection compared to kids, and females are roughly around 5 times more at risk than males to develop UTI and the issue becomes more frequent in pregnant women. There is no definite proof as to why it is more common in women but a smaller urethra size is considered as one of the reasons for the high risk of infection. A shorter urethra reduces the travel distance for bacteria leading to easy infection in the bladder. If the infection is limited to the bladder it can be quite painful and can cause a burning sensation. However, if UTI spreads to the kidneys it can even cause serious health problems.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

Though UTI symptoms depend on the affected part of the urinary system, there are some common early signs which are easily identifiable by individuals, which may include:

• A strong urge to urinate continuously even at night (Nocturia) and urinating only very small amounts.
• Feeling discomfort or a burning sensation (Dysuria), irritation while urinating.
• Urine may appear cloudy or have a darker color than usual. It may also emit a foul, strong odor, indicating the presence of bacteria.
• Discoloration in urine appears in shades of red showing the presence of blood (Hematuria) while urinating
• Pain, irritation, or itching in the genitals, pelvis, and lower abdomen region.

Specific signs that depend on the infected part are:

Part of the Urinary Tract Affected
Signs and Symptoms

• Kidneys
  Back or side pain
  High fever
  Shaking and chills
  Nausea
  Vomiting
• Bladder
  Pelvic pressure
  Lower belly discomfort
  Frequent, painful urination
  Blood in urine
• Urethra
  Burning with urination
  Discharge

Other symptoms of UTI may include:

In kids: Fever, jaundice, nausea, motion sickness
In the elderly: Fever, lethargy, hypothermia, mood swings

Complications

Though UTIs are not contagious if treated properly, but can lead to severe health problems if left untreated. The following are some of the complications of a UTI that must be kept in mind:

• Permanent kidney damage may occur from repeated infections.
• A narrowed urine passage in men if there are repeated infections in the urethra.
• If the infection travels up the urinary tract it can even cause sepsis which can be lethal in most cases.
• If a UTI occurs during pregnancy, it can lead to pregnancy complications that include low birth weight or preterm delivery.
• Chronic urinary tract infections may lead to persistent discomfort and require long-term management.
• Bladder dysfunction can result in difficulty with urination or incontinence in severe or recurring cases.

Preventions

UTI can be avoided by taking various precautions some of which are given below:

• Drinking plenty of water, as water dilutes the urine and the amount of nitrogen content in the urine which reduces the growth of bacteria and helps in flushing them out via urine.
• Cleaning and sanitation of private areas after taking bowels and urination. It helps to prevent the spread of bacteria in the anus, vagina, and urethra.
• Taking precautions while and after intercourse using lubricated condoms instead of unlubricated ones can help in controlling bacterial growth and preventing chances of UTIs.
• Change sanitary pads and tampons regularly during menstruation to maintain cleanliness.
• According to a study conducted in 2020 on a small group of people suggested that an increase in Vitamin C reduces the amount of bacteria in Urine.
• Taking a healthy diet and taking proper care of sanitation in the genital area.

Home Remedies

UTIs can be prevented by following simple home remedies which include:

• Cranberry Juice
  Prevents bacteria from adhering to the bladder walls.
• Probiotics
  Supports a healthy balance of bacteria in the urinary tract.
• Warm Compress
  Relieves pain and discomfort in the pelvic area.
• Garlic
  Natural antibacterial properties.
• Increased Water Intake
  Helps flush out bacteria from the urinary system.

Researchers have shown that dehydration increases the risk of UTIs which can cause injury to the kidneys, confusion, and nausea. According to some reports, drinking water alone reduces the risk of hospitalisation by UTIs by 50%. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid dehydration and drink a lot of water.

Regular Urination also helps in flushing the microbes from the urethra.
Manage stress levels, as stress can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to infections.
Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption, as they can irritate the bladder and worsen UTI symptoms.

Final Thoughts!

Though prevention is better than cure, it is possible that even after following the above remedies there is always a small chance that you can still get an infection. Medical insurance companies like Niva Bupa provide complete coverage that protects not only you but even your close ones if they ever contract Urinary Tract Infections or UTIs in Hindi (मूत्र मार्ग संक्रमण) and other contagious diseases.

With their comprehensive and affordable health insurance plans, you can get numerous benefits from overall coverage of pre- and post-hospitalisation costs, doctor’s consultation fees, and OPD to post-surgery expenses. Their all-rounder plans will help you prevent burning a hole in your pocket with the cost of the surgeries. With Niva Bupa, you don’t have to worry about the bill and can focus on the recovery.