Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be a persistent problem, and understanding the risk factors and preventive measures is crucial for managing this condition. UTIs are commonly caused by Escherichia coli, a bacterium found in the intestinal system. If E. coli is transferred from the rectum to the vagina, it can then enter the urethra—the tube that carries urine from the bladder—and lead to an infection in the bladder. The susceptibility to UTIs can vary with age and other factors.
A UTI may develop in any part of the urinary system, which includes the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys. Although the vast majority of UTIs are bacterial, most frequently due to Escherichia coli, they can also be caused by other pathogens in fewer cases. Symptoms typically include frequent urination, a strong urge to urinate, pain or burning during urination, and sometimes waking from sleep to pass urine. Pain, pressure, or tenderness in the area of the bladder is also common.
UTIs generally occur in the bladder or the urethra, but more serious infections can involve the kidneys. Factors that may trigger a UTI include sexual activity and catheter use. Complicated bladder infections are indicated by symptoms like fever, flank pain, chills, or fatigue, suggesting the infection may have reached beyond the bladder. In men, pain between the genitals and anus can also indicate a more complex infection.
Other signs of potential bladder or kidney infections include blood in the urine, which may also signal kidney disease, cancer, or a thinning lining in the urethra. The urine may appear cloudy or have a strong odor. While cranberries contain tannins that may prevent E. coli from adhering to the bladder walls, studies have shown that cranberry juice or extracts do not significantly reduce the incidence of UTIs.
For further information on UTIs and bladder issues, Harvard Health provides extensive resources. To learn about the persistence of UTIs, visit Harvard Health. For insights on UTIs in men, check out Urinary Tract Infection in Men. Explore new thinking about urinary tract infections or manage bladder problems by visiting Harvard Health’s section on bladder problems. If you’re questioning whether to see a doctor for bladder issues, this resource might help. For an overview of UTIs, the article from Washington University Physicians, What U Need to Know About Urinary Tract Infections, is a helpful guide.
