How Does a Urinary Track Infection Develop?

Introduction

Urinary Tract Infections (UTI's) are bacterial infections that occur within the urinary tract. The Urinary tract consists of the bladder, kidney and the urethra. Most UTI's are caused by the bacteria E. coli. The E. coli bacteria is a harmless bacteria that is normally found in the colon but because of the close proximity the bacteria sometimes ends up on entrance of the urethra where it starts multiplying. Regular and frequent urination can wash the bacteria off effectively preventing infection, but if left to multiple these E. coli work their way up the urethra. If they proliferate in the urethra the infection is called urethritis. If the bacteria end up proliferating in the bladder, the infection is called cystitis. If still left unchecked the infection can spread to your kidneys where it is called pyelonephritis. Untreated pyelonephritis can lead to scarring of kidney tissue and eventually kidney failure.

UTI development on a Cellular Level

Most of UTI's develop from an infection caused by the bacteria E. coli. The E. coli travel up the urinary tract where they come in contact with the body's first defense; epithelial cells. The E. coli have the ability to bind to the epithelial cells via the bacteria's extra cellular organelles. The bacteria then invade the epithelial cells starting intracellular colonies. Once the colonies form, the bacteria disperse and re-adhere to and invade other epithelial cells. The body then activates the immune system to fight the infection. The result is an inflammation of the tissues in your urethra, bladder or kidney, as your body tries to defend itself. This inflammation is what leads to tissue damage and the localized pain that you may experience. Sometimes the colonies lay dormant and cause a recurrent infection.

UTI Development on a Physical Level

Physical symptoms of a UTI depend on which area of your urinary tract is infected. Generally these symptoms include frequent urination, pain above the pubic bone in women, pressure in the rectum area in men, and blood or cloudy urine. In older patients the symptoms are slightly different; the patient is confused and may become incontinent. An infection in the urethra is characterized by a burning sensation when you urinate, as the infection travels upwards into your bladder the symptoms change. You may develop some pelvic pressure, pain in your lower abdomen; urination may be more frequent and be painful accompanied by a low grade fever. If the infection has reached your kidneys your symptoms might include, back pain, a high grade fever accompanied by chills, shaking and nausea.

Risk Factors and Prevention

To prevent UTIs it is important to determine your risk factors for developing a UTI. Some of the risk factors for contacting UTI's include; a family history of kidney stones, being pregnant or in menopause, prostate disease, using a catheter, not drinking enough fluids, diabetes and other chronic illnesses that impair the immune system, and aging. To prevent UTI's, keep your genitals clean making sure you wipe from front to back if you are female, drink plenty of fluids and void your bladder often.