Urinary Tract Infections or UTIs are a pain, both literally and figuratively and are alarmingly easy to get. While no one is immune to UTIs, women are more susceptible to them than men, and unfortunately, likely to experience more than one in their lifetime.
Did you know?
- Recurrent UTIs are very common among women.
- UTIs account for 20% of all infections in women.
- 1 in 2 women will have at least one UTI in their lifetimes.
- After a UTI: 20-40% of women will have recurrences which can last for years on end.
- The risk of UTIs in women increase significantly after menopause.
- UTIs are one of the biggest reasons for missed work days among women.
What are Urinary Tract Infections?
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a very common infection that affects any part of the urinary system, which is made up of your kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria from the digestive tract, such as E. coli, which are responsible for around 90% of UTI causes, but some are caused by fungi and in rare cases by viruses. Although some bacteria are flushed away when you urinate, some will attach to the wall of your urethra or bladder and once attached, they can quickly multiply into an infection. Left untreated, the infection can move from the bladder to the kidneys and do even more harm.
Female Urinary Tract System
Male Urinary Tract System
Most UTIs only involve the urethra and bladder, in the lower tract, however, UTIs can involve the ureters and kidneys, in the upper tract. Although upper tract UTIs are rarer than lower tract UTIs, they’re also usually more severe and require immediate medical attention.
The Types of UTIs Include:
- Cystitis: Affects the bladder.
- Urethritis: Affects the urethra.
- Pyelonephritis: Affects the kidneys.
- Ureteritis: Affects the ureters.
Doctors typically treat urinary tract infections with antibiotics, however, for prevention, you now have a powerful new tool to reduce your chances of getting a UTI in the first place.
If you think you have a UTI, see your doctor right away to confirm a diagnosis and start treatment, which will likely be an antibiotic. You should take URIEXO with your antibiotic until the infection clears and then start taking URIEXO once daily to keep your urinary tract in check and to constantly flush out bad bacteria that could lead to another UTI.
Break the Vicious Cycle of Recurrent Urinary Tract Health Issues with Double-Action URIEXO
Developing a daily routine with URIEXO® is the secret to Urinary Tract & Bladder Health
Symptoms of UTIs: The symptoms of UTIs vary depending on the location of the infections. Learn how to recognize these symptoms.
Causes of UTIs: UTIs can be caused by many things — drinking habits, sexual activity and even what you wear! Learn more about common risk factors related to UTIs so you can avoid them!
Medical Complications: While milder UTIs will often go away on their own without treatment, you shouldn’t avoid seeing a doctor if the symptoms persist for more than a couple of days. Learn more about why and when you should see your doctor.
UTI Prevention: Anyone who has ever had a urinary tract infection (UTI) knows full well how frustrating and uncomfortable they can be. Getting ahead of UTIs, with these UTI prevention tips, can help you prevent UTIs.
Antibiotic Resistance: The growing concern over the risk of antibiotic resistance is the primary reasons most healthcare practitioners are now turning towards non-antibiotic approaches to prevent recurrent UTIs. Learn more about using antibiotics wisely!
UTIs vs Vaginal Infections: Although UTIs and vaginal infections are quite different, it’s possible to have both at the same time. The good news is that both conditions are treatable and preventable! Learn more about differences.
