Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection in Males: What You Need to Know
You may have heard of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women. But do you know men can also get UTIs? The urinary tract consists of the parts that are responsible for producing the urine and letting it out of your body. In men, these parts include the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. UTI occurs when bacteria from your skin or the rectum reach any part of the urinary tract and multiply. The bacteria can grow in your kidneys, bladder, or the tubes that carry urine from your kidneys to your bladder. A male urologist in Navi Mumbai can detect UTIs in men and recommend the best antibiotics to treat the infection.
Signs and Symptoms of UTI in Men
Doctors classify the urinary tract infection into two types—upper tract and lower tract. Upper-tract infection occurs when bacterial growth starts in the kidneys and ureters, while the lower tract covers your prostate, urethra, and bladder. Here are a few common symptoms of UTI in men:
- Pain while urinating accompanied by a burning sensation
- Heaviness in your lower abdomen
- Blood in the urine
- Inability to hold pee
- A sudden urge to urinate
- It feels like your bladder does not empty despite urinating frequently
If the condition worsens, you might experience additional symptoms, like fever, chills, and fatigue. The most common cause of UTI is the bacteria E. coli, which transfers to your bladder through the urethra. Certain medical conditions, like diabetes, kidney stones, a history of kidney disease, and fetal incontinence can put men at an increased risk of UTI.
Also Read: How Do A Woman Get An Urinary Tract Infection?
Diagnosis and Treatment for UTIs in Men
You must see a specialist in a urology hospital in Navi Mumbai to get an accurate diagnosis. The healthcare provider will ask about your medical history and might also collect your urine sample to detect the signs of bacterial infection and white blood cells. In some cases, the doctor recommends an ultrasound to ensure your urinary tract is functioning well.
Treatment for UTIs
UTIs are treatable and you will most likely feel better after the antibiotic course that your doctor recommends. They will choose antibiotics based on your symptoms and the affected areas in your urinary tract. It’s important to drink enough water. This will help the bacteria flush away through urine. If the bacteria has infected your lower urinary tract, you may have to take antibiotics for 1-2 weeks. If it’s spread beyond that, the course will last for a few weeks and you may have to follow up with the doctor regularly.
Prevention Tips
You can take steps to prevent bacteria from reaching your urinary tract. Here’s what will help.
- Do not hold your pee
- Drink enough fluids, especially if you work in hot weather
- Clean your genitals regularly
Urinary tract infections are not as common in men as in women, but they can occur and are treatable. The above tips will help you reduce the risk of UTI. see a urologist immediately if you notice any signs of UTI.