Each year, urinary tract infections (UTIs) account for close to 10 million doctor visits. Men, women and children can get UTIs, but women are four times more likely than men to get one.
Understanding Your Urinary System
Your urinary system is your body’s main way to remove waste and extra water. It normally includes two kidneys to filter your blood, two ureters – the tubes that take urine from the kidneys to the bladder – one bladder that holds the urine, and one urethra that carries urine from your bladder out of your body.
Your chances of getting a UTI are more common in the summer.
Summer is when the weather is warmer, and it’s easier for germs to grow.
A UTI happens when germs build up in your urinary system and cause an infection.
Most UTIs are not dangerous and can be treated with medicine.
One in five women will have at least one UTI in her lifetime.
UTIs are the second most common type of infection in the body.
Likely signs of UTIs:
- Pain or burning when you urinate
- Frequent urination
- Pain in your back or side near the ribs
- Pressure in your lower belly
- Urine that is cloudy, bloody or has a strong odor
- Fever or chills
Pools can be a breeding ground for germs.
This is due to people peeing in the water, not showering before swimming and low levels of chlorine. Ask your local pool staff about how the pool is maintained.
You can lower your chances of getting a UTI by changing out of wet bathing suits and sweaty clothes quickly.
You should also drink a lot of water and go to the bathroom when you need to (don’t hold it).
Antibiotics can be prescribed by your urologist to not only clear up the current infection but to prevent kidney damage from occurring.
If you think you might have a UTI, please contact Dr. Lawrence Newman, a leading Las Vegas urologist for more information.