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| Urinary Tract Infections |
| If you have ever had a bout of cystitis or a urinary tract infection (UTI), you will not easily forget it. Typical symptoms are burning, scalding or cloudy urine; increased frequency of urination with a scanty flow; pain with urination; dribbling; straining and urgency. Blood is sometimes present in the urine, but may not be visible and sometimes can only be detected through urinalysis. Cystitis or UTI's are more common in women than in men, and in pregnancy and in post-menopausal women, because the lining of the urethra is thinner. Cystitis is an inflammation and infection of the lining and wall of the bladder. Sometimes called a "bladder infection," this is the most common UTI for women. |
| Other contributing factors that can make one more susceptible to urinary tract infections are stress, weak immunity, use of antibiotics, resisting the urge to urinate, lack of rest, an enlarged prostate (in men), wearing nylon underwear or tight pants and recent sexual activity with a new partner. Diabetics have high blood sugar, making them more prone to urinary tract infections because the microorganism that causes this ailment thrives on sugar. It is possible for a diabetic's blood sugar to soar out of control if he or she has a urinary tract infection. People who have diabetes and develop a urinary tract infection should seek proper medical care. Hormonal changes caused by oral contraceptives can also initiate infection in some people, and douches, feminine deodorants, sprays and contraceptive jellies and creams can be contributing factors. |
| Acute cystitis involves inflammation of the lining of the bladder, usually caused by either an infection or obstruction. Accurate diagnosis by a physician is required because if the infection travels up to the kidneys, medical treatment is required. Fever, blood in the urine and/or kidney tender- |
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