What Are the Different Types of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)?
, by Aussie Pharma Direct, 9 min reading time
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common medical condition that occurs when bacteria invade any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. This infection typically arises from bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra and multiplying in the bladder. While UTIs can affect anyone, they are especially prevalent among women due to their shorter urethra, which allows bacteria quicker access to the bladder.
UTIs often present with a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including a frequent urge to pee, burning or pain during urination, and cloudy or bloody urine, among others. Despite these common symptoms, UTIs actually come in different types, each influenced by the specific anatomy of the urinary tract, the age groups affected, and the frequency of occurrence. This differentiation is crucial as it impacts the approach to diagnosis and treatment.
What Is the urinary tract and how does it function?
remove waste products and excess fluids from the bloodstream. To understand how UTIs manifest in different areas, let's explore the anatomy of this vital system:
Kidneys
The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, just below the rib cage. Their primary function is to filter blood, removing waste products and excess fluids to form urine. The kidneys also regulate various substances in the blood, such as electrolytes and hormones, contributing to overall bodily homeostasis. Infections in the kidneys, known as pyelonephritis, can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.
Ureters
The ureters are thin tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder. Each kidney has one ureter, and their primary function is to transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder through rhythmic contractions known as peristalsis. Infections can occasionally travel from the bladder up the ureters to the kidneys, causing upper urinary tract infections.
Bladder
The bladder is a hollow, muscular organ located in the pelvis. It serves as a storage reservoir for urine until it is ready to be expelled from the body. The bladder can expand to hold varying amounts of urine and contracts during urination to push urine out through the urethra. Cystitis, or bladder infection, is a common type of UTI that results from bacteria entering and multiplying in the bladder.
Urethra
The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. In females, the urethra is shorter, which makes it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder, increasing the risk of UTIs. In males, the urethra is longer and passes through the penis, serving both urinary and reproductive functions. Urethritis is an infection of the urethra, often caused by bacteria or sexually transmitted infections.
Types of UTIs
UTIs can be broadly categorised into two main types based on the location of the infection: lower urinary tract infections (affecting the bladder and urethra) and upper urinary tract infections (affecting the kidneys).
- Lower urinary tract infections
Cystitis
Cystitis, commonly known as a bladder infection, is a prevalent type of UTI. The symptoms of cystitis include:
- Frequent urination, often with only small amounts of urine
- A persistent, strong urge to urinate
- A burning sensation during urination
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Pelvic discomfort or pain, particularly in the lower abdomen
- Blood in the urine, indicating a more severe infection
The primary cause of cystitis is a bacterial infection, most often from Escherichia coli (E. coli), which normally lives in the intestines. These bacteria can enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder. Factors such as sexual activity, improper hygiene, and the use of certain types of birth control can increase the risk of bladder infections.
Urethritis
Urethritis is an infection of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. The symptoms of urethritis include:
- A burning sensation during urination
- Discharge from the urethra, which can be clear, cloudy, or yellowish
- An increased urge to urinate
The causes of urethritis often include bacterial infections, similar to those causing cystitis, however, urethritis can also result from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea. Maintaining good hygiene and practising safe sex are crucial in preventing urethritis.
- Upper urinary tract infections
Pyelonephritis
Pyelonephritis is a severe type of UTI that affects the kidneys. The symptoms of kidney infections include:
- High fever
- Shaking chills
- Pain in the back, side, or groin
- Nausea and vomiting
- Frequent urination and a persistent urge to urinate
- Painful urination
The causes of pyelonephritis often involve bacteria spreading from a bladder infection up through the ureters to the kidneys. E. coli is a common culprit, but other bacteria can also cause kidney infections. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent complications such as kidney damage or sepsis.
UTIs can affect anyone
UTIs are a common health issue that can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. This includes children, the elderly, and even pregnant women. While the symptoms of UTIs are generally the same across different age groups and populations, there are certain additional cues that may indicate an infection:
Children
In addition to the common symptoms, children with UTIs might exhibit these symptoms:
- Fever
- Irritability or fussiness
- Poor feeding or loss of appetite
- Vomiting
Elderly
The elderly may experience atypical symptoms such as:
- Confusion or sudden changes in mental state
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Agitation or behavioural changes
- Incontinence or a sudden onset of urinary urgency
- Hypotension
- Tachycardia
- Poor appetite
- Drowsiness, frequent falls
Pregnant women
Symptoms are similar to those in non-pregnant individuals, including:
- Frequent urination
- Painful urination
- Lower abdominal pain or discomfort
However, it is important to remember that these cues alone are not enough to diagnose a UTI. Consulting a doctor for a proper diagnosis is always recommended, which is why consulting a doctor for a proper diagnosis is always recommended.
According to estimates by the World Health Organization (WHO) cited in a study, various infections during pregnancy contribute to 10.7% of pregnancy-related maternal deaths worldwide, to which nearly 28% of these infections originate in the urinary tract.
This underlines the importance of recognising and treating UTIs during pregnancy. Left untreated, UTIs can progress to more serious conditions like pyelonephritis (kidney infection), preterm labour, low birth weight for the baby, and even a life-threatening complication known as maternal sepsis.
How to check if you have a UTI
If you suspect you might have a UTI due to symptoms like frequent or painful urination, there’s a way to check for an infection at home. The TouchBio UTI test kit is a convenient option for self-testing. This kit quickly screens for the presence of white blood cells, nitrite, and proteins in urine, all of which are indicators of a UTI.
If you test positive using the TouchBio UTI test kit, it’s essential to follow up with a visit to your doctor for confirmation and appropriate treatment. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing complications, especially for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, the elderly, and children.
Treatment options for different types of UTIs
Fortunately, UTIs are treatable, and the specific course of action depends on the type and severity of the infection.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are the primary treatment for bacterial UTIs. The type of antibiotic prescribed depends on the specific bacteria causing the infection and the location of the UTI.
- Lower UTIs (Cystitis and Urethritis): Typically treated with oral antibiotics such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, nitrofurantoin, or fosfomycin. These medications usually provide relief within a few days, but it’s crucial to complete the entire course to ensure the infection is fully eradicated.
- Upper UTIs (Pyelonephritis): Often require a longer course of oral antibiotics or even intravenous antibiotics if the infection is severe. Commonly used antibiotics include ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, and ceftriaxone.
Pain relievers
Pain relievers can help manage the discomfort associated with UTIs. OTC pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can alleviate pain and reduce fever.In some cases, a doctor may prescribe stronger pain medication or urinary tract analgesics like phenazopyridine to relieve burning sensations during urination.
What preventive measures can help reduce the risk of UTIs?
Preventive strategies are vital for individuals prone to recurrent UTIs. These include:
- Hydration - Drinking plenty of water helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract.
- Hygiene practices - Wiping from front to back, urinating after sexual activity, and avoiding irritants such as douches and perfumed feminine products can reduce the risk of infection.
- Cranberry products - Some studies suggest that cranberry juice or supplements may help prevent UTIs by preventing bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract.
- Prophylactic antibiotics - For those with frequent infections, a doctor may prescribe a low-dose antibiotic to be taken regularly or after sexual activity.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and is based on research and credible sources cited by our team. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition