Urinary tract infections are caused by microbes such as bacteria overcoming the body’s defences in the urinary tract.
Here are 10 facts about urinary tract infections that you should know
1. Cranberry extracts do not treat urinary tract infections but may help reduce the risk of recurrent urinary tract infection.
2. Having diabetes increases the risk of urinary tract infections.
3. Frequent or intense sex and sex with a new and/or multiple partners can lead to urinary tract infections.
4. The use of tampons and spermicides increases the risk of urinary tract infections.
5. The majority of urinary tract infections are caused by the E. Coli bacterium.
6. Urinary tract infections are commonly treated with antibiotics. It should also be noted that use of antibiotic is a risk factor for urinary tract infections.
7. Strong, frequent urge to urinate and a painful and burning sensation when urinating are common symptoms of urinary tract infections.
8. 40-50% of women have at least one urinary tract infection during their lifetime. 20-30% have a recurrent urinary tract infection (2 infections in 6 months or more than 3 infections a year).
9. Women have a lifetime risk to over 50% of developing a urinary tract infection.
10. Urinary tract infection are normally diagnosed based on symptoms and testing of a urine sample.
Phil