What is a UTI?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection involving the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. These are the organs responsible for filtering waste and toxins out of the body via urine. The most common type of UTI is a bladder infection (cystitis), which affects women more than men. Other types of UTIs include urethritis and, less commonly, kidney infections (pyelonephritis).

On average, approximately 40% to 50% of women will experience a urinary tract infection (UTI) at some point in their lives. In Singapore, the prevalence is around 4% among young adult women, which increases to 7% by the age of 50. Adult women have a 30-fold higher risk of developing a UTI compared to men, with almost half of them experiencing at least one episode in their lifetime. Research indicates that one in three women will have their first UTI before the age of 24. While UTIs are most commonly observed in sexually active young women, other vulnerable groups include the elderly and patients requiring longer term drainage of urine with a catheter (catheterisation).

Types of UTIs

There are two main types of lower urinary tract infections:

• Cystitis – a bladder infection common in women due a shorter urethra compared to a man, and the shorter distance between the vagina and bladder. This makes it easier for bacteria to move from the vagina into the bladder.
  
  
• Urethritis – an infection of the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine out of the body from the bladder; and can affect both men and women.

Symptoms of a UTI

The most common symptoms of a urinary tract infection include:

• Pain or burning sensation while urinating
• Frequent need to urinate (urinary urgency)
• Cloudy urine
• Abdominal pain
• Pelvic pain
• Blood in the urine

What happens if a UTI is left untreated?

If left untreated, a urinary tract infection can lead to serious complications. These include kidney infections (pyelonephritis) which can damage the kidneys permanently, and septicaemia or blood poisoning – a life-threatening condition. If you experience any of the symptoms associated with UTI, it is important that you seek immediate medical attention from your doctor or healthcare provider.

Causes of UTIs

Urinary tract infections are most often caused by bacterial organisms that enter the urinary tract through the urethra and then to the bladder. In some cases, a UTI may be caused by other organisms such as viruses, fungi, or parasites. Risk factors for developing a UTI include being sexually active, using diaphragms for birth control, diabetes, and kidney stones; and having an enlarged prostate gland in men.

Risks of UTIs

The risks associated with urinary tract infections are largely dependent on the type of infection.

• Bladder infections, for example, are generally considered to be low-risk and can usually be treated with antibiotics.
  
  
• Kidney infections, however, can be more serious and may require hospitalisation or even surgery in some cases.

Complications of UTIs

Untreated urinary tract infections can lead to a number of potentially serious complications including kidney damage, sepsis, and an increased risk of developing kidney stones. There is also emerging evidence of the possibility of chronic UTIs triggering Bladder Pain Syndromes/Interstitial Cystitis.

Prevention of UTI

The best way to prevent urinary tract infections is to:

• Practise good hygiene by washing your hands before and after using the toilet.
• Avoid sharing towels.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This can help flush out bacteria and make it more difficult for them to attach to the lining of the urinary tract.
• Wear cotton underwear and avoid synthetic materials. The material helps keep moisture away from the urethra and bladder.
• Maintain good general health by exercising regularly.
  
• Eat a healthy diet to help the good bacteria in the large bowels to proliferate. This can help reduce your risk of developing UTIs.

If you have recurrent urinary tract infections, speak to your doctor about preventative treatments such as antibiotics or other medications.

Find treatment for UTIs in Singapore

If you suspect that you have a urinary tract infection, it is important to seek medical attention from a qualified healthcare professional as soon as possible. In Singapore, you can find treatment for UTIs from healthcare providers such as urogynaecologists. When seeking treatment it is important to provide your doctor with information about your symptoms and medical history in order to receive the best possible care and outcome.

Conclusion

In Singapore, UTIs are a common condition that affects both women and men. Due to the potential seriousness of such an infection, it is important to seek medical attention if you suspect that you have a UTI. Your doctor will be able to diagnose the condition and prescribe the appropriate treatment such as urinary alkalinizers and antibiotics. Additionally, there are a number of steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing a UTI, including good hygiene practices, drinking plenty of water, and wearing cotton underwear. Ultimately, understanding the causes and symptoms of UTIs is an important part of staying healthy in Singapore.

If you think you may have a UTI, don’t wait – contact your doctor or healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. Early action can help to ensure that the infection does not become more serious. Take steps today to protect your health and well-being.