Learner Objectives

1.       The learner will be able to identify three signs and symptoms of a UTI.

2.       The learner will be able to identify three preventative measures to reduce UTI occurrences.

What is a UTI?

Urinary tract infections are also known as a bladder infection. A short acronym for urinary tract infection is UTI. The urinary system consists of the following body systems: bladder, kidneys, and urinary tubes (urethra/ureter).

In general, the main purpose of the urinary tract is to make urine and dispose of it outside of the body. When bacteria or germs interfere with this system, this is how urinary infections begin (Holland & Adams, 2007).

Are You At Risk?

The following are risk factors known to correlate with the causation of urinary tract infections:

1. Females are more prone to UTIs than men due to having shorter urethras. (The tube transporting urine from the bladder to outside the body).
2. Individuals that are pregnant are more susceptible to acquiring UTIs.
3. Individuals that do not drink enough fluids can increase their risk for UTIs.
4. Individuals with diabetes or chronic disease are at a higher risk of getting a UTI due their impaired immune system.
5. Urinary obstructions such as kidney stones or enlarge prostates.
6. Sexually active individuals are more prone to developing UTIs. Sexual intercourse irritates the urethra and produces bacteria that can travel from the uretha to the bladder.

Signs & Symptoms

Not all individuals will experience the same signs and symptoms but it is important that one is able to recognize these symptoms in case one was to have an UTI.

1. Pain or buring during urination
2. Constant feeling of need to go
3. Fevers and chills
4. Nausea & vomitting
5. Elimination of urine is small
6. Urine smells fishy and looks cloudy
7. Blood or yellowish/whie discharge in urine

It's time to take CHARGE of your own health!

Complications

If left untreated, complications can develop. Some of these complications include:

1. Higher reoccurence of an urinary tract infection
2. Pregnancy women are at an increase risk of premature birth with low birth weight
3. Can lead to acute or chronic kidney infections
4. Can cause kidney damage or death

Preventative Measures

What you can do to prevent UTIs?

The following are tips that you can do right now to prevent the occurence or reoccurence of UTIs:

• Drink at least 8 glasses of water everyday
• Drink cranberry juice
• Use the bathroom often
• Urinate immediately after sex, especially important for females.
• Wipe from back to front
• Avoid the use of feminine products such as douches and powders

Treatment Options

What can I do about an UTI?

There are treatment options available to help treat your condition. If you suspect that you might have an UTI, call your doctor to schedule an appointment.

Your doctor will generally prescribe an antibiotic as the first drug of choice. Antibiotics have been found to be effective in treating infections such as a UTI. Symptoms generally clear up after a few days following treatment.

Common drugs prescribed for UTIs are:

• Amoxicillin (Amoxil)
• Ciprofloxacin (Cipro)
• Levofloxacin (Levaquin)
• Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (Bactrim)

Take all medications as prescribed by doctor!

Important Information About UTI Medication to Know!!

There are many common side effects that you need to be aware of. Some side effects may include but are not limited to:

• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Dry Eyes
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Anemia
• Sensitivity to Sunlight
• Sore throat
• Abdominal pain

Antibiotics can also cause allergic reactions. If any of the following side effects are experienced, PLEASE SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION:

• Itchy rash
• Wheezing
• Swelling of the throat or mouth
• Unable to breathe
• Low blood pressure