H1 – Learn about the causes, symptoms and treatments of urinary tract infections in men. Get expert advice on prevention and maintenance of urinary health.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in men are less common than in women, but they can still occur and often require medical attention. Male UTIs usually affect the lower urinary tract, bladder and urethra. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options of UTIs in men is crucial to ensuring proper care and preventing any complications.

Causes of UTIs in Men: UTIs in men are usually caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and make their way to the bladder or other parts of the urinary tract. Common sources of bacteria are sexual intercourse, poor hygiene, kidney stones, an enlarged prostate, or the use of urinary catheters.

The symptoms of UTIs in men can vary depending on the location and severity of the infection. Some common symptoms are persistent urge to urinate, burning sensation when urinating, cloudy or smelly urine, blood in the urine (haematuria), abdominal or pelvic pain, and general feeling of malaise or fatigue.

1. Diagnosis: To diagnose a UTI in men, the doctor may collect a urine sample for analysis. This can help identify the presence of bacteria and determine the most effective treatment.

2. Treatment: Treatment for male UTIs usually involves antibiotics to eliminate the underlying infection. The specific type and duration of antibiotics prescribed may vary depending on the severity of the infection and the individual’s medical history.

Additionally, some lifestyle changes and preventative measures can help reduce the risk of UTIs in men. For example, hydrating properly, maintaining good hygiene, urinating before and after sexual activity, and avoiding the use of irritating personal care products. It is important for men to see a doctor if they suspect they have a UTI, as early intervention can prevent complications and promote a quick recovery.

UTIs in Men: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Causes: ITU in men usually occur as a result of a bacterial infection. Bacteria can enter the urinary tract through the urethra and multiply in the bladder or other parts of the urinary system. The most common bacterium responsible for ITUs in men is Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is usually found in the intestines. Other factors that can increase the risk of ITU in men are the anomalies of the urinary tract, urinary trash, the enlargement of the prostate and sexual activity.

Important information:

• STIS can occur in men, although they are less frequent compared to women.
• The bacterial infection, mainly by E. coli, is the main cause of IU in men.
• Urinary tract abnormalities, urinary probing, prostate enlargement and sexual activity can increase IU risk in men.

Symptoms: STIU’s symptoms in men may vary, but usually include frequent desire to urinate, ardor sensation when urinating, murky or blood urine and discomfort in the lower part of the abdomen or back. In some cases, men may also experience fever, chills and fatigue. It is important not to ignore these symptoms, since unreasonable IUs can cause more serious complications, such as kidney infections.

Treatment: The treatment of ITU in men usually consists of a cycle of antibiotics to eliminate bacterial infection. The specific antibiotic prescribed will depend on the seriousness of the infection and the presence of any underlying disease. It is important to complete the prescribed antibiotic treatment, even if the symptoms improve, to guarantee the complete eradication of the infection. In addition, increasing fluid intake, avoiding irritants such as caffeine and alcohol, and maintaining good hygiene practices can help relieve symptoms and prevent ITU.

A Common Affliction: Understanding UTIs

Causes: ITU in men usually occur when bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (e. coli), penetrate the urinary tract through the urethra. This may be due to several reasons, such as sexual activity, poor hygienic practices or underlying diseases that affect the urinary system. Certain factors related to lifestyle, such as retaining urine for prolonged periods or using a probe, can also increase the risk of ITU.

Symptoms: Recognizing the symptoms of a UTI is essential for prompt medical intervention. Although signs may vary from person to person, common symptoms of UTIs in men include persistent urge to urinate, burning sensation when urinating, cloudy or bloody urine, and lower abdominal pain. Some may also experience fever, chills, or fatigue. If left untreated, UTIs can progress and lead to more serious complications, such as kidney infections.

Key information:	Men can also suffer from urinary tract infections (UTIs), although they are more common in women.
	UTIs in men can be caused by various factors, such as bacteria entering through the urethra.
	Common symptoms of UTIs in men are frequent urination, a burning sensation, and cloudy or bloody urine.
	Early detection and treatment of UTIs in men is crucial to prevent complications such as kidney infections.

Recognizing the Signs: Key Symptoms

1. Frequent urge to urinate: One of the main signs of urinary tract infection in men is the frequent need to urinate. This sensation may be accompanied by the passage of small amounts of urine, which can be annoying and interrupt daily activities. In some cases, the urge can be so intense that it is difficult to control the urge to urinate.

2. Pain or discomfort when urinating: Another common symptom of a UTI in men is pain or discomfort when urinating. It can manifest as a burning or stinging sensation in the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. The discomfort may persist throughout urination or intensify towards the end of the process.

Important: If you experience any of these symptoms or suspect that you have a urinary tract infection, it is essential that you seek medical attention. UTIs should not be left untreated as they can lead to more serious complications if the bacteria spread to the kidneys.

3. Cloudy or bloody urine: The appearance of urine can also be a key indicator of a UTI in men. If the urine appears cloudy or contains traces of blood, it may mean that there is a urinary tract infection. Normally, urine should be clear and free of any unusual colors or particles.

4. Pain or pressure in the lower abdomen: men with an IU may experience discomfort or a pressure sensation in the lower abdomen. This feeling can vary from slight to intense and can be constant or intermittent. The pain can be deaf and annoying or acute and similar to a cramp, depending on the person.

What Causes UTIs in Men?

One of the main causes of iTu in men is an infection of the urethra, which is the conduit that transports urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. This type of infection, known as urethritis, can be caused by various bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is usually found in the i n-testing tract. Other bacteria such as Klebsiella pneumoniae and Proteus mirabilis can also cause urethritis.

Important: male IUs can also be caused by infections in other parts of the urinary tract, such as bladder and kidneys. These infections can occur as a result of the entry of bacteria into the urinary tract through the urethra or its propagation from other parts of the body through the bloodstream.

• Bacterial prostatitis: the inflammation of the prostate gland, often caused by bacteria, can cause the appearance of an iT in men. This condition can occur when urinary or rectum tract bacteria penetrate the prostate gland.
• Use of urinary probes: men who need a urinary probe, which is a tube that is inserted in the bladder to drain urine, have an increased risk of developing itu. The presence of a probe provides a bacteria entry route in the urinary tract.
• Sexual activity: sexual activity, especially unprotected anal sex, can introduce bacteria into the urethra and increase the risk of ITU in men.

It is important that men know the possible causes of ITU and take preventive measures to reduce risk. Maintaining good hygiene, drinking a lot of water and practicing safe sex are some of the measures that can help reduce the probability of developing IU. If symptoms such as pain or burning when urinating, frequent urination or murky urine are experienced, it is essential to seek medical attention for adequate diagnosis and treatment.

The Diagnosis Process: How UTIs in Men are Identified

When a man presents symptoms that may indicate an IU, health professionals follow a systematic diagnosis process to confirm the infection and determine the best treatment. This process usually includes a combination of review of the medical history, physical examination and laboratory tests.

Medical History Review

An exhaustive review of the medical history is essential to know the patient’s symptoms, his general state of health and any risk factor that can contribute to the appearance of ITU. The healthcare professional can ask questions about the frequency and severity of the symptoms, previous ITU or other urinary conditions, sexual history and any underlying disease, such as diabetes or kidney problems.

Physical Examination

During physical examination, the doctor can feel the abdomen and perform a genital exam to detect any sign of sensitivity, swelling or abnormal secretion. The exploration helps to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms and provides valuable information about the possible sources of the infection.

Laboratory Tests

Laboratory tests play a crucial role when confirming the diagnosis of an IU in man. The most common test is urine analysis, which consists in analyzing an urine sample to detect the presence of bacteria, leukocytes and other infection indicators. In addition, a urine crop can be performed to identify the specific bacterium that causes infection and determine its sensitivity to antibiotics. These laboratory tests help guide the selection of adequate antimicrobial treatment.

IMPORTANT: The rapid and precise diagnosis of an IU in man is crucial to prevent complications and guarantee effective treatment. If you experience symptoms such as frequent urination, pain or ardor when urinating, murky or blood urine, or low abdominal pain, it is important to seek medical attention for adequate diagnosis and treatment.

Table: Common Diagnostic Tests for UTIs in Men

Combining the review of the medical history, physical examination and laboratory tests, health professionals can accurately diagnose ITIS in men and develop an adequate treatment plan to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

Treatment Options: Managing UTIs

1. Antibiotics: Antibiotics are the basis of the treatment of ITU. They act by eliminating bacteria that cause infection. The choice of antibiotics can vary depending on the severity and location of the infection. Antibiotics that are usually prescribed for STIs are:

• Trimetoprata/sulfamethoxazole (boltrim, segment): This combined antibiotic is usually prescribed as firs t-line treatment for ITU. It acts preventing bacteria from producing essential proteins for their growth and survival.
• Ciprofloxacin (Cipro): Ciprofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic that acts effectively against a wide range of bacteria responsible for urinary infections. Inhibits the DNA Girasa enzyme, which intervenes in the replication and repair of bacterial DNA.
• Nitrofurantoí (MacroBid): Nitrofurantoína is usually prescribed for uncomplicated ITIs. It acts interfering with the capacity for metabolization and reproduction of bacteria.

Note:

It is important to complete the complete cycle of antibiotics as prescribed by the healthcare professional, even if the symptoms improve before completing it.

2. Analgesics without recipe: To relieve pain and discomfort associated with ITI, free sales analgesics can be used. No n-steroidal ant i-inflammatories (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, can help reduce pain and fever. However, these medications only provide temporary relief and should not replace antibiotics as the main treatment.

3. Changes in lifestyle: in addition to medication, certain changes in lifestyle can help control ITU and prevent their recurrence. It is important

1. Stay hydrated: drinking a lot of water helps eliminate bacteria from the urinary system.
2. Maintain good hygiene: clean the genital area thoroughly and regularly to maintain hygiene.
3. Urinate before and after sexual activity: this can help eliminate bacteria that can enter the urinary tract during sexual intercourse.
4. Avoid irritating: avoid the use of strong soaps, bubble baths or vaginal showers, since they can irritate the urethra and increase the risk of ITU.

Prevention Strategies: Tips for Managing UTIs in Men

1. Keep hydrated: drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day is essential to maintain adequate urinary function. Hydration helps eliminate bacteria and toxins from urinary tract, avoiding the accumulation of harmful pathogens. Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day and avoid excessive consumption of drinks with caffeine and alcohol.

• Limit bladder irritants: certain foods and drinks can irritate the bladder and increase the propensity to urinary infections. Limit the consumption of spicy food, citrus, carbonated drinks and foods high in artificial additives.
• Practice good hygiene: maintaining adequate hygiene is crucial to prevent the spread of bacteria that can cause itu. Thoroughly clean the genital area before and after sexual activity, and be sure to maintain regular shower and bathroom habits.
• Empty the bladder regularly: retaining urine for prolonged periods can create a culture broth for bacteria. Empty the bladder frequently, especially before and after sexual activity, to eliminate any possible pathogen.

1. Use breathable underwear: Choosing breathable tissues for underwear can help avoid moisture accumulation and favor better air circulation. Cotton underwear is an excellent option, since it allows genitals to remain dry and reduce the risk of bacterial proliferation.
2. Urinal after sexual activity: urinating after having sex can help eliminate any bacteria that may have entered the urethra during intercourse, reducing the risk of ITU. It is also important to clean the genital area well after having sex.
3. Consider red cranberry products: juice or blueberry supplements can help prevent iTUs by preventing bacteria from adhere to the urinary tract walls. Consult your healthcare professional to determine if red blueberry products are suitable for you.

Note: It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional if you suffer from ITU or if you have underlying health problems that can increase your risk. They can provide personalized advice and recommend adequate treatment options.

Complications and Recurrences:

Complications:

• Prostatitis: urinary infections can sometimes spread to the prostate, causing a condition known as prostatitis. This can cause pain and inflammation in the groin area, as well as difficulty urinating.
• Epididimitis: the infection can also be extended to the epididymis, which is a conduit located in the back of the testicles. This condition, called epididimitis, can cause pain and testicular inflammation.

In addition to these specific complications, unreasonable or recurring ITS can also cause kidney infections, which are more serious and may require hospitalization and intensive treatment. It is vital that men seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms of an iTu or if their symptoms persist despite treatment.

Recurrences:

• The ITS recurring are frequent in men who have not effectively eliminated the initial infection. This may be due to underlying health factors, such as structural anomalies in the urinary tract or a weakened immune system.
• Sexual activity can also increase the risk of ITI recurring, since bacteria can be introduced during intercourse.

It is necessary that people suffering from recurrent urinary infections collaborate closely with their health professional to determine the underlying cause and develop an adequate treatment plan. This may imply the realization of more diagnostic tests, such as image or urodynamic studies, to identify any underlying problem that contributes to recurrent infections.

When to Seek Medical Attention:

1. Persistent or worsen symptoms:

• If you have been experiencing symptoms of an IU for more than two days, such as frequent urination, pain or burning sensation when urinating, murky or blood urine, or eager to urinate, and do not improve, it is advisable to seek medical help. These symptoms may indicate a more serious infection that requires antibiotic prescription.

It is important to keep in mind that ITIs in men are relatively rare compared to women, and often indicate an underlying health problem, such as an anomaly of the urinary tract or an enlarged prostate. Searching for medical attention can help identify and address these underlying problems.

2. Symptoms of the upper urinary tract:

• If you experience symptoms beyond those typical of the lower urinary tract, such as pain on the sides or back, fever, chills, nausea or vomiting, you can suggest that the infection has spread to the kidneys or the upper urinary tract. In these cases, immediate medical care is necessary to avoid major complications.

Upper urinary tract infections may have more serious consequences, such as kidney damage or blood torrent infections. Timely medical intervention is crucial to diagnose and properly treat these conditions.

It is important to note that the previous information serves as a general guidance. Individual cases may vary, and it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional to obtain personalized advice and treatment options.

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Author of the article

Dr.Greenblatt M.

Medical oncologist at the Robert Larner College of Medicine, MD, at the University of Vermont