What is a Urinary Tract Infection?

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common and frequently occurring disease in urology, especially among women. It refers to acute or chronic inflammation of the urinary tract caused by various pathogenic microorganisms invading the urinary tract mucosa or tissues, followed by pathogen growth and reproduction in the urinary tract.

By infection site, it can be divided into upper urinary tract infections (pyelonephritis, ureteritis) and lower urinary tract infections (urethritis, cystitis).

Abnormal Urination Symptoms

• Urinary urgency and incomplete voiding: Frequent urge to urinate with only a small amount passed each time.
• Painful urination: Burning or stabbing pain in the urethra during urination.
• Changes in urine color: Cloudy urine, gross hematuria, or urethral bleeding.Changes in urine odor: Strong, irritating odor in urine.

Causes of Urinary Tract Infection

Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits

Bacteria normally live around the urethra. Although some may enter the bladder, they do not always cause infection. However, holding urine for a long time prevents urine from flushing out bacteria, allowing them to multiply and accumulate in the urinary tract, which may lead to UTI.

Besides holding urine, prolonged sitting also increases the risk. Sitting for long periods blocks air circulation in the perineal area, encouraging bacterial growth and raising UTI risk.

Disease-Induced Urinary Tract Infections

Diabetes, renal insufficiency, immunodeficiency disorders, etc., can impair bladder contractility, causing urinary retention and incomplete bladder emptying.

Obstructive Urologic Diseases

Conditions such as urinary calculi, urethral stricture, neurogenic bladder, and urinary system tumors may cause urinary tract obstruction and even irreversible kidney damage.

Long-term Urinary Catheterization

Indwelling catheters, cystostomy tubes, and ureteral stents may injure the urethral mucosa, increasing the risk of UTI and even triggering urethral bleeding.

How to Prevent Urinary Tract Infection

Drink plenty of water and urinate frequently

Alternate between sitting and moving; avoid prolonged sitting and holding urine. Empty the bladder promptly when feeling the urge to urinate. This helps dilute urine, flush the urethra and bacteria, and relieve urinary irritation.

For people without special medical conditions, drink more than 2 liters of water daily.

Good personal hygiene

Change underwear frequently and keep the perineal area clean. Learn proper methods of cleaning the vulva, especially for women during menstruation, pregnancy, and puerperium.

After defecation, wipe from front to back with toilet paper. If possible, rinse with clean water to avoid fecal contamination of the urethral opening.

Urinate after sexual intercourse

For UTIs related to sexual activity, urinate immediately after intercourse to allow urine to wash away some bacteria. If necessary, take a standard single dose of antibiotics.

Daily Precautions

Take regular physical exercise, balance work and rest, and strengthen immunity.Avoid tight clothing; choose loose, cotton garments.Minimize the use of scented personal hygiene products.Maintain a light diet and avoid irritating foods such as spicy hot pot, milk tea, coffee, ice cream, etc.