Male urinary infection: causes, symptoms and treatment options for this frequent medical condition.

Urinary tract infection (ITU) is a condition that mainly affects women. However, it is important to keep in mind that men can also suffer from them, although less frequently. Male urinary infections may be due to various factors, such as anatomical abnormalities, urinary probing, sexual activity and certain medical conditions.

A frequent cause of urinary infections in men is the enlargement of the prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (HPB). This condition occurs when the prostate gland, which surrounds the urethra, enlarges and obstructs urine flow. Consequently, bacteria can accumulate in the urinary tract and cause an infection.

Important: unlike women, men tend to experience more serious symptoms when they develop a urinary infection. These symptoms may include persistent desire to urinate, ardor feeling when urinating, murky or blood and pain in the lower part of the abdomen or back. It is essential that the men who experience these symptoms quickly go to the doctor.

Another risk factor of urinary infections in men is urinary trash. This medical procedure consists of the insertion of a fine tube into the bladder to drain urine. Although probing is necessary in certain medical conditions, it can also introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, increasing the probability of infection. In addition, sexual activity can contribute to ITU in men, as it can introduce bacteria in the genital area into the urethra.

Understanding Urinary Tract Infection in Men

An itu occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply. This can cause inflammation and infection. Men can be more prone to iTu if they have enlarged prostate, kidney stones or a weakened immune system. Sexual activity can also increase IU risk in men.

Important information:

• Urinary tract infections in men can be caused by various bacteria, including E. coli, which is the most common guilty.
• STIU’s symptoms in men may include frequent desire to urinate, burning sensation when urinating, murky urine or pelvic pain and pain.
• If they are not treated, male IUs can cause more serious complications, such as kidney infections or prostatitis. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

Common Causes of Urinary Tract Infection in Men

1. Age:

Age can influence the appearance of urinary infections in men. Older men, especially those over 50, can be more susceptible to ITU due to ag e-related changes in the urinary system. Changes in bladder function, prostate enlargement and decreased immune system function can increase the risk of bacterial growth and infection.

2. underlying diseases:

Men with certain underlying medical conditions may have a greater risk of developing urinary tract infections. A conditions such as diabetes, kidney stones, prostate enlarging (benign prostate hyperplasia) and urinary tract abnormalities can hinder urine flow and create an environment in which bacteria can multiply and cause infections.

3. Behaviors:

Some behaviors can also increase the risk of urinary infections in men. They include not completely empty the bladder, use an urinary probe, practice risk sex and have a history of recent interventions or surgeries in the urinary tract. These behaviors can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract or alter the natural defense mechanisms, facilitating that bacteria cause an infection.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection in Men

1. Frequent and urgent urination: One of the main symptoms of a urinary infection in men is the increase in frequency when urinating. Men may feel the need to urinate more frequently, even if their bladder is not full. In addition, an urgency feeling to urinate, often accompanied by a pressure sensation can be experienced. These symptoms can alter daily routines and disturb sleep patterns.

2. Pain and ardor sensation: Another common symptom of a urinary infection in men is the pain and the sensation of ardor when urinating. This discomfort can vary from slight to severe, and is usually felt in the urethra, which is the conduit that transports urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. Pain can persist even after urinating and can be associated with an incomplete emptying of the bladder.

Important: It is essential to differentiate between a urinary infection and other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as sexually transmitted infections or prostatitis. A proper diagnosis is necessary by a healthcare professional to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment.

3. Turbia or bloody urine: men with urinary infection may notice changes in the color and consistency of urine. Urine may appear murky, indicating the presence of bacteria or pus on the urinary tract. In the most serious cases, blood can be seen in the urine, which acquires a pink or red dye. These changes should not be ignored and justify medical care.

4. Pain in the lower part of the abdomen or back: some men with urinary infection may experience pain in the lower abdomen or back. This discomfort can be deaf and persistent or acute and intermittent. It is important to keep in mind that low or back abdominal pain can also be caused by other conditions, so a medical evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause.

• Increased frequency and urgency of urination.
• Pain and burning sensation when urinating.
• Murky or blood urine.
• Low abdominal pain or back.

Recognizing the symptoms of a urinary infection in men is vital to seek adequate medical care. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional to obtain a precise diagnosis and treatment plan.

How to Prevent Urinary Tract Infection in Men

1. Keep hydrated: Drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day is crucial to prevent iTs. Hydration helps eliminate bacteria that may be present in the urinary system and reduces the concentration of bacteria in the urine. Try to drink at least between 8 and 10 glasses of water a day to maintain a healthy urinary tract.

• 2. Practicing good hygiene: maintaining adequate hygiene is essential to avoid the spread of bacteria that can cause urinary infections. The genital area with warm water and soft soap is recommended daily. After going to the bathroom, always limit the back to prevent bacteria in the anal region from entering the urethra.
• 3. Empt the bladder completely: When you go to the bathroom, be sure to completely empty the bladder. Retaining urine for long periods of time can allow bacteria to multiply in the urinary tract, increasing the risk of infection. Avoid hurry when urinating and take your time to empty the bladder.

Note: These preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of urinary infections in men. However, if you suspect that you suffer from urinary infection or experience symptoms such as frequent urination, pain or ardor when urinating, murky or bad smell, it is important that you go to a healthcare professional to receive adequate diagnosis and treatment.

In short, adopting healthy lifestyle habits and taking proactive measures to maintain the health of the urinary tract, men can effectively minimize the appearance of urinary infections and preserve their general wel l-being.

Diagnosis and Testing for Urinary Tract Infection in Men

Clinical evaluation: The first step in the diagnosis of a urinary tract infection in men implies a thorough clinical evaluation. A healthcare professional will review the patient’s medical history, ask about the experienced symptoms and perform a physical examination. The usual symptoms of a urinary infection in men can be pain or burning sensation when urinating, frequent desire to urinate, murky or discolored urine and pain or discomfort in the lower part of the abdomen. The presence of these symptoms, together with the patient’s medical history, can provide valuable information about the possibility of an ITU.

Important note: It is essential to distinguish between infections of the lower urinary tract (cystitis) and upper urinary tract infections (pyelonephritis), since the latter can lead to more serious complications. The clinical evaluation plays a crucial role to determine the place and seriousness of the infection.

Laboratory Tests:

Once an ITU is suspected based on clinical evaluation, it is necessary to perform laboratory tests to confirm it. The following tests are usually used to diagnose urinary tract infections in men:

1. Urine sampling analysis: a patient urine sample is collected and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The presence of white blood cells, red blood cells and bacteria in the urine may indicate an infection. The sample can also be examined to detect the presence of nitrites, which are b y-products of certain bacteria commonly associated with ITU.
2. Urine cultivation: In cases where the urine sample analysis indicates the presence of bacteria, a urine crop is performed to identify the specific bacteria that cause the infection. This test helps determine the most appropriate antibiotic for treatment.

Treatment Options for Urinary Tract Infection in Men

1. Antibiotics: The cornerstone of the treatment of urinary infections in men is a cycle of antibiotics. These medications attack the bacteria responsible for the infection and help eliminate them from the urinary tract. The choice of antibiotic depends on the seriousness of the infection, the type of bacteria involved and any underlying health problem. Antibiotics that are usually prescribed for STIs are ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin and trimetoprime-sulfamethoxazole. It is important to complete the antibiotic treatment prescribed by the doctor to guarantee the complete eradication of the infection and prevent its reappearance.

Important Note:

Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern in the treatment of urinary infections. It is imperative to take antibiotics exactly how doses or share medications with other people are prescribed and not skipped. If the symptoms persist or worsen despite having completed the prescribed antibiotic treatment, it is crucial to look for an additional medical evaluation.

2. Increased fluid intake: drinking a lot of water and liquids can help eliminate urinary tract bacteria. It is recommended to consume at least eight glasses of water a day to maintain adequate hydration and favor urinary flow. In addition, juice or red blueberry supplements can be beneficial, since they contain compounds that can prevent bacteria from adhere to the urinary tract walls. However, it is important to keep in mind that red blueberry products should not be used as antibiotic substitutes, but as a complementary measure.

1. Probiotics: Probiotics, also known as “good bacteria”, can help restore the natural balance of microorganisms in the urinary tract. These beneficial bacteria can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and reinforce the immune system. Probiotics can be consumed through certain foods such as yogurt or taken as supplements. However, it is necessary to continue investigating to determine the most effective specific strains and doses to prevent and treat urinary infections in men.

Complications of Untreated Urinary Tract Infection in Men

1. Renal infection: One of the most serious complications of an unreasonable ITU in men is the development of a renal infection, also known as pyelonephritis. Bacteria can rise from the urethra and bladder to the kidneys, causing an infection. This can lead to symptoms such as fever, back pain and urinary urgency. If they are not treated, kidney infections can cause permanent renal damage, sepsis or even renal failure. Men with pr e-existing diseases, such as diabetes or renal dysfunction, may have a higher risk of renal infection.

• UndMatted ITUs can evolve to kidney infections.
• Kidney infections can cause serious complications and cause renal damage or insufficiency.
• Men with underlying health problems are more vulnerable to kidney infections.

2. 2. Prostatitis: Another potential complication of an infection of the urinary tract not treated in men is the development of prostatitis. The prostate gland, located just below the bladder, can be infected when urinary tract bacteria extend to this area. Prostatitis symptoms include pain or discomfort in the genital area, difficulty urinating and pelvic pain. Without proper treatment, prostatitis can cause chronic inflammation and even affect fertility in some cases.

1. Uncreated ITU can cause prostatitis in men.
2. Prostatitis can cause symptoms such as pelvic pain and difficulty urinating.
3. Chronic prostatitis can have lon g-term effects on fertility.

3. Infection of the blood torrent: rarely, an infection of the unrelated urinary tract can evolve to an infection of the blood torrent, also known as urosepsis. When urinary tract bacteria enter the bloodstream, they can spread throughout the body and cause a potentially deadly condition. Urosepsis can cause symptoms such as high fever, tachycardia, confusion and low blood pressure. Immediate medical intervention is necessary to treat UROSEPSIS and prevent its complications.

If an urinary infection is not treated, an infection of the bloodstream known as UROSEPSIS may occur.

UROSEPSIS is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Recognizing the symptoms of UROSpsis can be crucial to prevent potentially mortal complications.

Lifestyle Changes for Managing and Preventing Urinary Tract Infections in Men

One of the most important lifestyle changes to control and prevent urinary infections in men is to increase water intake. Staying hydrated helps eliminate urinary tract bacteria, reducing the risk of infection. It is recommended to drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water a day, and it is important to avoid excessive consumption of caffeine or alcohol, since they can irritate the bladder and worsen the symptoms of ITU.

Prevention Strategies:

• Drink a lot of water to eliminate bacteria
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can irritate the bladder
• Maintain good hygiene, including proper cleaning of the genital area.
• Urinate before and after sexual activity to reduce bacterial proliferation

It is essential to maintain good hygiene practices to prevent ITUs in men. This includes proper cleaning of the genital zone, especially before and after sexual activity. Urinal before and after sexual activity can also help eliminate bacteria that may have entered the urethra. These simple measures can significantly reduce the risk of infection.

In addition, it is essential to maintain good general hygiene. Wash the genital area and make sure that it remains clean and dry can help prevent bacteria proliferation. It is also recommended to wear breathable underwear and avoid tight clothing, since it can create a wet environment that favors bacterial growth.

LikeDislike

Author of the article

Dr.Greenblatt M.

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