Urinary tract infection or UTI refers to infection anywhere in the urinary tract. It can be in the kidneys, urethra, or bladder. Usually, such infections occur in the bladder or the urethra; the lower urinary tract. Women are more susceptible to UTIs than men. It is treatable with antibiotics. You can also use OTC UTI Meds to treat it and take some preventive measures to reduce its occurrence.

UTI Causes

When bacteria enter the bladder or the urethra, it can lead to infections. Bacteria is the usual cause of UTIs but other microorganisms can also lead to infections of the urinary tract.

Bladder infection is called cystitis. It is caused by E. coli bacteria that are present in the gastrointestinal tract (GI tract). E. coli can travel to the urethra during sexual intercourse. Women are more susceptible to cystitis due to their anatomy. Bacteria can easily travel from the anus to the vaginal region.

Urethritis is an infection of the urethra. When bacteria from the GI tract reach the urethra, it can lead to an infection. Even sexually transmitted infections or STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes can cause urethritis.

Pyelonephritis is an infection in the kidneys. Germs can travel up the bladder and infect the kidneys.

UTI Symptoms

UTIs may occur without symptoms also. But following are the main symptoms of the infection –

– Frequent urge or need to urinate

– Burning sensation, mild or severe discomfort when urinating

– Pelvic pain

– Pain during sexual intercourse

– Incontinence

Back pain, flank pain, fever, chills, vomiting, and nausea are signs of pyelonephritis. Discharge and burning during urination are signs of urethritis. Painful and frequent urination, blood found in urine, pain in the lower abdomen, and pelvic pressure are signs of cystitis.

UTI Treatment

Your doctor will diagnose the infection by performing certain tests such as urinalysis. Urine culture is tested to find the type of bacteria causing the UTI. For recurring infections, your doctor may order a CT scan, cystoscopy, or an ultrasound.

Antibiotics are used to effectively treat UTIs.

– Nitrofurantoin (100 mg) is a common antibiotic for UTIs. You may need to take 1 pill twice a day; usually for a week.

– Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim (800 mg/160 mg), 1 pill needs to be taken twice daily; for a week or so.

– Amoxicillin (500 mg), 1 tablet, needs to be taken twice daily; usually for five days.

– Ciprofloxacin (250 mg) 1 tablet needs to be taken twice daily; usually for three days.

There are many other antibiotics used for treating UTIs. Your doctor will prescribe the medicine based on the type of infection and its severity. OTC UTI Meds are also used to treat recurring infections or to complement antibiotic treatment plans.

Your doctor may recommend OTC UTI Meds for effective treatment. You can purchase them from reputed online stores or pharmacies also.

One common OTC medicine for UTIs is a boric acid suppository. It helps to keep vaginal acidity optimal and keep infections at bay. Suppositories are solid medicines, which are inserted into the vagina or the rectum. For treating UTIs, you will need to insert them in the vagina. You can follow the instructions on the package.

The infection may not clear once an antibiotic course is complete. You can continue to use boric acid suppositories to clear away any remaining infection. Your doctor may even prolong the antibiotic treatment course if needed.

Those who frequently get UTIs may have complications. Over time; antibiotics may not be very effective to treat it. The use of boric acid suppositories may help to minimize or prevent infections. You can also take probiotic supplements to prevent or minimize UTIs.

Tips –

– Drinking more water and fluids during the treatment is recommended. Doing so may help to flush out germs and infections from the urinary tract.

– Good hygiene practices may help to prevent UTIs. Frequently change tampons or pads during menstruation. Refrain from using scented products in and around the vaginal area. Do not put cleansers inside the vagina. Wipe from the vagina to the anus.

– It is also important to not hold the urine inside for long. When you need to pee and if you delay it for some reason; it can increase your chances of contracting UTIs.