Urinary tract infections are a common kidney-related condition and a major cause of urinary discomfort.
Common symptoms include burning during urination, a frequent urge to urinate, or pain in the lower abdomen, notes Dr. Amaya Caviedes Aramburu, nephrology specialist at ABC Medical Center.
Mexico’s Ministry of Health estimates that one in five women will experience this condition at some point in their lives.
Several risk factors can trigger a urinary tract infection, especially in adulthood. Women are more prone to these infections due to their anatomy, although in childhood, boys are more likely to develop them than girls. Other risk factors include sexual activity, the use of certain contraceptives or spermicides, menopause, a weakened immune system, imbalances in the gut microbiome, or even a recent procedure involving the urinary system, among others.
Environmental factors also play a role, exposure to unclean environments, and wearing underwear made from materials like nylon instead of cotton are both closely linked to this condition.
Other contributing factors include poor hydration, conditions that increase susceptibility to these infections, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, and any condition that weakens the immune system, which can also lead to a urinary tract infection.
Dr. Caviedes notes that one of the most important things to keep in mind when treating urinary tract infections is to avoid self-medicating. Using antibiotics indiscriminately can lead to complications and make the condition more severe. Instead, see a specialist, a urologist or nephrologist, who can order the right tests and prescribe the appropriate medication and treatment for each individual.
Urinary tract infections are fairly common and don’t lead to chronic kidney failure, once diagnosed, they can be treated and resolved without lasting effects. That said, you may develop a new infection down the line, especially if the underlying risk factors haven’t been addressed.
At ABC Medical Center’s Internal Medicine area, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
