Urinary tract infection (UTI) can be a silent pain. It creates leakages and a burning sensation while urinating. While women are the frequent victims of UTIs, men are not an exception too. Statistics indicate that 3 percent of men worldwide are affected by UTIs every year. Fortunately, UTI Antibiotics Over the Counter can help gain relief from initial level UTI.

So why does UTI occur? What do its symptoms and signs look like? Can we prevent UTIs with lifestyle care? We will explore answers to such questions as we move ahead in this post.

Understanding Urinary Tract Infection

Our body eliminates the excessive water and the liquid toxins in the form of urine through the urethra. Kidneys prepare this urine and excrete it out through this pipe structure. When the harmful bacteria grow in the urethra, it causes urinary tract infection.

The main reason for a UTI is the Escherichia coli bacteria, popularly termed as E.coli. This bacteria is naturally present in the rectum and anus of humans. When this E.coli enters the urethra, it causes discomfort ranging from a burning sensation while urinating to lower abdominal pain in severe cases.

What are the signs and symptoms of UTIs in men?

UTI affects both the upper and lower part of the urinary system; thus, in individuals with UTI, the following symptoms are observed:

• Difficulty in passing urine freely

• Burning sensation while urinating

• Urine that is abnormal in color and smell

• Blood or pus in the urine

• Leakage of urine

• Lower abdominal pain

• Slight fever and nausea

The symptoms of UTI depend on the severity of the infection. Remember that UTI Antibiotics Over the Counter help attain relief in the initial stages. If the pain persists or the infection does not subside even after 2-3 days, it is the time to get a check-up done by a doctor.

Causes of UTI

The primary cause of UTI is the E.coli bacteria. The bacteria enter the urinary tract and then spread to the other parts of the urinary system if it is not treated. But, how do the bacteria enter the urethra? Here are some commonly sighted causes:

Unhygienic sex: Anal sex and sex with multiple partners increase the risk of UTIs. Besides, not urinating and cleaning before and after sex can trigger the entry of bacteria into the urethra.

Inadequate consumption of fluids: When an individual consumes insufficient fluids, the bacteria in the kidney and excretory waste do not get eliminated. As a result, urinary infections arise.

Prostate expansion: In men over 50, prostate enlargement is the main reason for urinary infections. This can also be the cause of lower abdominal pain and urinary leakage.

Contraceptive measures: Contraceptive spermicides are one of the reasons for UTIs. They can disturb the pH of the urinary tract and boost harmful bacteria.

Diabetes and long-term health conditions: In such cases, immunity gets suppressed which reduces the body’s natural effectiveness to ward off infections.

How to diagnose and prevent UTIs?

In most cases, UTIs are identified with the signs and symptoms. Doctors may suggest a urine test to detect the blood and pus to confirm UTI. In suspected cases of prostate enlargement, doctors perform a physical examination to confirm prostate issues.

Prevention measures for UTI

UTIs can arise due to medical conditions. However, certain preventive measures can help keep UTIs at bay.

Stay hydrated

Water flushes out toxins effectively from our bodies. Drinking water regularly helps keep your kidneys clean and free from harmful bacteria.

Maintain sexual hygiene

Limit the number of sexual partners to avoid UTIs. Urinate and clean the genitals with plenty of water pre-sex and post-sex. This ensures genitals hygiene, thus minimizing the risk of urinary infections.

Wash with water

Instead of paper, clean the anal area with water every time you excrete. This keeps the part free from harmful bacteria and prevents UTIs. If you use paper to clean, ensure to wipe from front to back.

Add probiotics to your diet

Fermented foods and probiotics promote the growth of healthy lactobacillus bacteria responsible for the health of the urinary system. Add more probiotics such as curd, yogurt, and sauerkraut to the diet to receive a healthy amount of lactobacillus.

Conclusion

UTIs are manageable with UTI Antibiotics Over the Counter when detected early. Implement these lifestyle changes and prevent UTIs for a happy and healthy life.