Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are often recurring issues that can be both painful and frustrating. These infections are typically caused by Escherichia coli, a bacterium commonly found in the intestinal system. If E. coli is transferred from the rectum to the vagina, it can enter the urethra and infect the bladder. Risk factors for UTIs vary with age.

Common symptoms of E. coli infection include abdominal cramps, diarrhea (sometimes containing blood), tiredness, fever usually below 101°F, nausea, and vomiting. It is crucial to contact a healthcare provider if you experience persistent diarrhea for more than three days, or if you have a fever over 102°F.

Certain types of E. coli produce a “Shiga toxin,” leading to more severe complications. These bacteria, known as STEC (Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli), include the strain E. coli O157:H7, which is common in North America. Symptoms of this infection include stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.

E. coli bacteria are not always harmful; many strains are essential for a healthy digestive tract. However, some strains, like enterohemorrhagic E. coli, can cause severe intestinal infections. Escherichia coli, often referred to simply as E. coli, are bacteria found in nature, including the gastrointestinal tracts of humans and warm-blooded animals.

UTIs can be classified based on the infected area. Lower urinary tract infections affect the urethra or bladder, while the infection can progress to the ureters or kidneys. UTIs are mainly caused by gram-negative bacteria such as E. coli, which invade urinary epithelium cells, causing irritation and inflammation. E. coli in the urinary tract can evade the immune response by producing toxins that destroy complement cells, making it resistant to the urinary tract’s defense mechanisms.

For further information on E. coli and UTIs, you can visit these resources: Harvard Health, UC Davis Health, Harvard University, University of Rochester Medical Center, Oklahoma State University, OSU Extension, and U.OSU.