Burning Sensation When You Pee? Could be UTI

Urinary Tract infection usually occurs in your urinary tract.

The urinary tract is made of kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. In most cases, bacteria living in the gut called the E.coli causes the infection. Fungi and viruses are rarely the causative agents for such infections. A doctor can determine the cause of urinary tract infection by performing a simple urine or blood test.

Early symptoms of UTI

• Burning sensation while urinating

• Urge to pee more frequently

• Low back pain or pelvic pain in women

• Frothy or cloudy urine

• Strong smelling urine

• Blood in the urine

In a UTI, bacteria that enter the urethra multiply and travel up to the bladder. Though the symptoms of UTI are very uncomfortable and unbearable at times, most the UTIs are not severe in the lower urinary tract.

UTIs can become more severe if not treated on time and can travel to the urinary tract up to the ureters and kidney, causing upper urinary tract infections. This situation can be life-threatening as the infection can spread into the blood, causing sepsis.

Symptoms of an upper urinary tract infection include:

• pain and soreness in the upper back

• chills

• fever

• nausea

• vomiting

Though very rare, UTI can occur in men also. Here are some of the symptoms:

· rectal pain

· painful ejaculation, rarely accompanied by blood in the semen

Causes of UTI

1. Sexual intercourse

2. Spermicide-coated condoms or contraceptive diaphragms

3. Immune suppression

4. Pregnancy

5. Diabetes

6. Low levels of estrogen ( After Menopause)

7. Urinary catheter

Prevention Methods

• Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily

• Don’t hold back urine

• Maintain proper hygiene

• Do pass urine after and before intercourse

• Avoid using latex condoms

• Avoid using diaphragms

• Increase Vitamin C in your diet

If you notice any signs of UTI, consult a doctor immediately.