UTI infection can spread to kidneys if not treated on time

NCOMFORTABLE urinating in public places, 17-year-old Laxmi (name changed) always held on for long hours. Her tendency to avoid taking bathroom breaks harmed her bladder and her overall health. This resulted in her getting a urinary tract infection (UTI), not once, but repeatedly.

- KAVITA BAJELI-DATT

Detailed counselling, dedicated pelvic floor physiotherapy and medicines helped the Bengaluru school girl to overcome this problem and be free of recurrent UTI, which is a prevalent type of infection in one's urinary system. UTI can involve any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. However, most infections affect the lower urinary tract, especially the bladder and urethra.

"Most of the time, the infection limits itself to the bladder, which can be uncomfortable and irritating. However, if UTI spreads to the kidneys, it can cause major health issues," said Dr Taruna Dua, senior consultant, obstetrics and gynaecology, Aakash Healthcare, Dwarka, Delhi. Though women are at a higher risk of contracting it, men also get infected, like in the case of 28-year-old Akash Sharma (name changed).

The married man complained of a burning sensation in urine, blood spotting at the end of urination and pain at the tip of the penis. Ultrasound showed an inflamed bladder with standard prostate gland size. His urine analysis revealed the presence of pus cells, and the culture showed the growth of bacteria e.coli with significant counts. "He was started on an oral antibiotics course for a week and medication to improve urinary flow for a fortnight. He was also informed about genital hygiene and healthy sexual practices. He gradually improved with medications. He is now doing well," said Dr Ritesh Goel, senior consultant, urology, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad.