What are the common signs of a urinary tract infection in men. How is a male UTI diagnosed and treated. What causes UTIs in men and how can they be prevented. What are the potential complications of untreated urinary tract infections in males.

Understanding Urinary Tract Infections in Men

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are often associated with women, but men can also develop these uncomfortable and potentially serious conditions. A UTI occurs when harmful bacteria proliferate in any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. While less common in males, understanding the signs, causes, and treatments of UTIs in men is crucial for early detection and proper management.

Types and Locations of Male UTIs

UTIs in men are typically classified into two main categories:

• Upper tract infections: These affect the kidneys and ureters
• Lower tract infections: These involve the bladder, prostate, or urethra

The location of the infection can influence the symptoms experienced and the appropriate treatment approach. Understanding the difference between upper and lower tract infections can help healthcare providers determine the most effective course of action.

Recognizing the Symptoms of UTIs in Men

Male UTI symptoms can vary depending on the infection’s location and severity. Common signs include:

• Frequent urge to urinate
• Burning or pain during urination
• Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
• Blood in the urine
• Lower abdominal pain or discomfort
• Fever and chills (especially in upper tract infections)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Pain in the sides or upper back

Is it possible for men to have a UTI without symptoms? Yes, some men may experience asymptomatic UTIs, making regular check-ups important for those at higher risk.

Diagnosing UTIs in Male Patients

Accurate diagnosis of a UTI in men typically involves several steps:

1. Medical history review and symptom assessment
2. Physical examination, including a possible prostate exam
3. Urinalysis to check for bacteria and white blood cells
4. Urine culture to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection
5. In some cases, imaging studies like X-rays or ultrasounds may be necessary

Why is a thorough diagnosis important for male UTIs? Proper identification of the infection’s cause and location ensures targeted treatment and helps rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

Treatment Options for Male Urinary Tract Infections

The primary treatment for UTIs in men is antibiotics. The choice of antibiotic and duration of treatment depend on several factors:

• The type and location of the infection (upper or lower tract)
• The severity of symptoms
• The patient’s overall health and medical history
• The specific bacteria identified in urine cultures

For lower tract infections, a short course of antibiotics (usually 3-7 days) is often sufficient. Upper tract infections may require a longer treatment period, typically 7-14 days. In severe cases or complications, hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics might be necessary.

Supportive Treatments

In addition to antibiotics, other measures can help alleviate symptoms and support recovery:

• Increased fluid intake to help flush out bacteria
• Over-the-counter pain relievers for discomfort
• Avoiding irritants like alcohol and caffeine
• Using a heating pad for abdominal or back pain

How quickly do UTI symptoms improve with treatment? Many men experience relief within a few days of starting antibiotics, but it’s crucial to complete the entire prescribed course to prevent recurrence or antibiotic resistance.

Causes and Risk Factors for UTIs in Men

Several factors can increase a man’s risk of developing a UTI:

• Age: Older men are more susceptible due to prostate enlargement
• Sexual activity: Especially with new or multiple partners
• Urinary tract abnormalities or blockages
• Use of urinary catheters
• Weakened immune system
• Diabetes
• History of UTIs

Understanding these risk factors can help men take preventive measures and seek timely medical attention when necessary.

Prostate-Related UTI Risks

The prostate gland plays a significant role in male UTIs. An enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH) can obstruct urine flow, increasing the risk of bacterial growth and infection. Additionally, prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) can mimic UTI symptoms and may require different treatment approaches.

Potential Complications of Untreated UTIs in Men

When left untreated, UTIs in men can lead to serious complications:

• Kidney infections (pyelonephritis)
• Sepsis (a life-threatening systemic infection)
• Chronic kidney disease
• Urethral stricture
• Prostatic abscess

Why is prompt treatment of male UTIs crucial? Early intervention can prevent the spread of infection to the kidneys and reduce the risk of severe, potentially life-threatening complications.

Preventing UTIs in Men: Practical Strategies

While not all UTIs can be prevented, several measures can reduce the risk:

1. Maintain good hygiene, especially around the genital area
2. Stay well-hydrated to flush bacteria from the urinary system
3. Urinate regularly and completely empty the bladder
4. Practice safe sex and use condoms to prevent STIs
5. Manage underlying health conditions like diabetes
6. Address prostate issues promptly
7. Avoid holding urine for extended periods

How effective are these preventive measures? While they can significantly reduce the risk of UTIs, some men may still develop infections despite taking precautions. Regular check-ups and awareness of symptoms remain important for early detection and treatment.

When to Seek Medical Attention for UTI Symptoms

Men experiencing potential UTI symptoms should consult a healthcare provider if:

• Symptoms persist for more than a day
• There’s blood in the urine
• Fever, chills, or back pain develop
• There’s a history of recurrent UTIs
• Symptoms occur after recent urological procedures

Prompt medical attention can prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment. Men with recurring UTIs may need further evaluation to identify underlying causes and develop long-term management strategies.

Distinguishing UTIs from Other Urological Conditions

Some conditions can mimic UTI symptoms in men, including:

• Prostatitis
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Bladder or prostate cancer
• Interstitial cystitis

Professional medical evaluation is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Misdiagnosing or ignoring symptoms can lead to delayed treatment of potentially serious conditions.

Advancements in UTI Diagnosis and Treatment for Men

Research continues to improve our understanding and management of UTIs in men:

• Rapid diagnostic tests for quicker, more accurate identification of causative bacteria
• Development of new antibiotics to combat resistant strains
• Exploration of non-antibiotic treatments to reduce antibiotic resistance
• Improved understanding of the urinary microbiome and its role in UTI prevention

These advancements hold promise for more effective, targeted treatments and better prevention strategies for male UTIs in the future.

The Role of Probiotics in UTI Prevention

Emerging research suggests that probiotics may play a role in preventing UTIs by promoting a healthy balance of bacteria in the urinary tract. While more studies are needed, particularly in men, probiotics could offer a complementary approach to traditional preventive measures.

Living with Recurrent UTIs: Management Strategies for Men

For men who experience frequent UTIs, long-term management strategies may include:

• Low-dose prophylactic antibiotics
• Regular urological check-ups
• Lifestyle modifications to reduce risk factors
• Investigation of underlying anatomical or functional issues

Working closely with a urologist can help develop a personalized plan to manage recurrent UTIs and improve quality of life.

Impact of UTIs on Male Sexual Health

UTIs can affect a man’s sexual health, potentially causing:

• Discomfort or pain during sexual activity
• Temporary erectile dysfunction
• Reduced libido

Addressing these concerns with a healthcare provider is important for maintaining overall well-being and relationship satisfaction.

UTIs in Special Populations: Considerations for Older Men

Older men face unique challenges when it comes to UTIs:

• Increased risk due to prostate enlargement and weakened immune systems
• Atypical symptoms that may be mistaken for other conditions
• Higher risk of complications due to existing health issues

Regular screening and proactive management of urological health become increasingly important as men age.

UTIs and Catheter Use in Men

Men who require long-term catheterization are at higher risk for UTIs. Strategies to reduce this risk include:

• Proper catheter care and hygiene
• Regular catheter changes
• Consideration of intermittent catheterization when appropriate
• Monitoring for signs of infection

Healthcare providers can offer guidance on best practices for catheter management to minimize UTI risk.

The Psychological Impact of UTIs on Men

While often overlooked, the psychological effects of UTIs on men can be significant:

• Anxiety about recurrence
• Embarrassment or stigma
• Impact on self-esteem and body image
• Stress related to medical procedures or treatments

Addressing these psychological aspects is crucial for comprehensive care. Support groups, counseling, and open communication with healthcare providers can help men cope with the emotional challenges of UTIs.

Education and Awareness: Breaking the Stigma of Male UTIs

Increasing public awareness about UTIs in men is essential for:

• Encouraging early symptom recognition and treatment
• Reducing stigma and misconceptions
• Promoting better urological health practices
• Empowering men to seek medical attention without hesitation

Healthcare providers, public health campaigns, and educational initiatives play crucial roles in disseminating accurate information about male UTIs.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Men: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

Written by Markham Heid

• The Two Types of Urinary Tract Infection
• UTI Symptoms
• Diagnosing a UTI
• Treatment for a UTI
• UTI Causes and Risk Factors
• UTI Complications
• Preventing a UTI
• More

Your urinary tract includes the parts of your body that make urine and carry it out of your body.

For men, these parts include your kidneys and bladder, as well as your ureters and urethra. Ureters are the twin tubes that carry urine from your kidneys to your bladder. Your urethra is the single tube that carries urine from your bladder past your prostate and to the tip of your penis.

If unhealthy bacteria build up anywhere in your urinary tract, this can cause an infection. And while urinary tract infections (UTIs) are much more common in women, men can also get them.

Doctors usually refer to UTIs as either “upper tract” or “lower tract. ” An upper-tract infection is one that happens in the ureters or kidneys. A lower-tract infection is one that happens in the bladder, prostate, or urethra.

Depending on the location of your UTI, you may have one or more of these symptoms:

• Frequent bathroom trips
• Feeling like you have to pee all the time
• Pain, burning, or discomfort while peeing or just after
• Pain or tenderness below your stomach
• Wetting the bed
• Cloudy or smelly urine
• Blood in your urine
• Fever
• Nausea
• Pain in the sides or upper back

Some men don’t have any symptoms at all.

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms. They will also ask about your sexual history because sex can raise your risk for a UTI.

Urine tests can confirm whether you have a UTI. If your doctor thinks the problem might be related to your prostate, you may get a prostate exam. Rarely, you may also need to get an X-ray or ultrasound so your doctor can get a better look at your urinary tract.

Doctors usually treat UTIs with antibiotics you take by mouth. Your doctor will probably choose an antibiotic based on the likely source (such as your bladder) and the bacteria that most commonly cause your UTI. You’ll probably start taking those antibiotics before you get the results of your urine test. (Your doctor may change the prescription if the test shows that the bacteria causing your UTI aren’t targeted by your first antibiotic.)

If you have a lower urinary tract infection, you’ll probably only need antibiotics for a week or less. If you have an upper-tract infection, you may need to take antibiotics for up to 2 weeks.

In rare and severe cases, you may need to take antibiotics by IV in a hospital.

The most common cause of a UTI in the urethra is a sexually transmitted disease. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are two STDs that can cause a UTI. STDs are also the most common cause of UTIs in younger men.

Prostate problems can also cause UTIs. An enlarged prostate (BPH) is common in older men and can block the flow of urine. This can increase the odds that bacteria will build up and cause a UTI.

Prostatitis, which is an infection of the prostate, shares many of the same symptoms as UTIs.

Diabetes and other medical issues that affect your immune system can also make you more likely to get a UTI.

If untreated, a lower urinary tract infection can spread up to your kidneys. Doctors can usually treat kidney infections. In rare cases, an untreated kidney infection can lead to chronic kidney disease or kidney failure. A kidney infection can be serious, because it could cause sepsis (an infection in the bloodstream). If that happens and you feel very sick, you may need to be treated in a hospital.

You can’t prevent all UTIs, but you can help make them less likely. Wearing a condom during sex can protect you from STDs, which can lower your risk for a UTI. Treating prostate problems can also lower your risks.

Top Picks

8 Causes of Burning & Pain While Peeing

Written by Annie Stuart

Medically Reviewed by Jennifer Robinson, MD on August 11, 2022

• Seeing a Doctor for Dysuria

Dysuria is a symptom of pain, discomfort, or burning when urinating. It is more common in women than in men. In men, it is more common in older men than younger men.

These are some of the more common causes of painful urination:

Infections. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the leading causes of painful urination. Infections can occur in any part of the urinary tract, including:

• Kidneys
• Ureters (tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder)
• Bladder
• Urethra (tube from the bladder that carries urine out of the body)

Urinary tract infections are most often caused by bacteria that get into the urinary tract through the urethra.

Factors that can increase your chance of developing a UTI include:

• Being a woman
• Diabetes
• Advanced age
• Enlarged prostate
• Kidney stones
• Pregnancy
• Having a urinary catheter in place

Besides painful urination, other symptoms of UTI include:

• Fever
• Foul or stronger-smelling urine
• Cloudy or bloody urine
• Increased urinary frequency or urge to urinate
• Flank pain

Sometimes painful urination can be related to a vaginal infection, such as a yeast infection. With vaginal infections, you may also expect changes in vaginal discharge and odor.

Sexually transmitted infections can also cause painful urination. These include:

• Genital herpes
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea

Besides painful urination, these sexually transmitted infections can also cause symptoms such as:

• Itching
• Burning
• Blisters or sores for genital herpes
• Abnormal discharge

Inflammation and irritation. A range of problems can lead to inflammation or irritation of the urinary tract or genital area, leading to the symptom of painful urination. Besides infections, other reasons that area may be irritated or inflamed include:

• Stones in the urinary tract
• Irritation of the urethra from sexual activity
• Interstitial cystitis, a condition caused by bladder inflammation
• Vaginal changes related to menopause
• Activities such as horseback riding or bicycling
• Vaginal sensitivity or irritation related to use of scented soaps or bubble bath, toilet paper, or other products such as douches or spermicides
• Side effects from certain medications, supplements, and treatments
• Tumor in the urinary tract

After a history and physical exam, your doctor may request lab tests to help diagnose the cause of your dysuria symptoms. Then you can begin targeted treatment.

To help determine the cause, the doctor may ask whether your painful urination:

• Started suddenly or gradually
• Occurred once or many times
• Is felt at the onset of urination

The doctor may also ask if your painful urination is accompanied by symptoms such as:

• Fever
• Abnormal discharge
• Flank pain

The doctor may also want to know if the painful urination is accompanied by changes in urine flow, such as:

• Dribbling
• Difficulty initiating flow
• Increased frequency or need to urinate

And you may also be asked by your doctor if there are changes in urine character along with painful urination. These include changes in urine such as:

• Color
• Amount
• Blood in urine
• Pus in urine
• Cloudiness

Answers to these questions will give your doctor clues to the cause. You will likely need a urine test or other tests to confirm a diagnosis.

Top Picks

Urinary tract infection

Urinary tract infection – an infection of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra. The kidneys form urine by removing excess fluid from the blood and waste materials that are unnecessary for the body. Urine from the kidneys through special tubes (ureters) enters the bladder, where it accumulates and is periodically excreted through the urethra (urethra).

The most commonly affected parts of the urinary system are the bladder and urethra. A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria enter the urethra and multiply in the bladder. With the further development of the inflammatory process, a decrease in the body’s defenses, the infection can spread through the ureters and affect the kidneys, causing serious complications.

Urinary tract infections are more common in women than in men. This is due to the structural features of the male and female urogenital system. For the treatment of these diseases, various antibacterial drugs are prescribed.

Synonyms Russian

Urinary tract infection, urinary tract infection.

Synonyms English

Urinary tract infection, urinary system infection.

Symptoms

• Frequent, strong urge to urinate
• Small urine output
• Soreness, burning sensation when urinating
• Discoloration of urine
• Turbidity of urine, appearance of flocculent discharge in urine
• Strong smell of urine
• Pain in the lower abdomen
• Pain in the lumbar region
• Increased body temperature
• Nausea, vomiting

General information about the disease

The organs of the urinary system include the kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra. The kidneys are paired organs located in the lumbar region. Their function is to remove unnecessary and harmful substances that are formed in the process of human life. The kidneys extract these substances from the blood and excrete them along with excess fluid (urine). They also play an important role in maintaining blood pressure, the formation of red blood cells, and other vital functions. Through the ureters, urine from the kidneys enters the bladder, and then, with the contraction of its walls, into the urethra (urethra) and is excreted.

Urinary tract infections are more common in women. This is due to the structural features of the male and female urogenital system. In women, the urethra is shorter, which shortens the path for bacteria to reach the bladder, where infection can develop more intensely. With inflammation of the urethra, urethritis occurs, with inflammation of the bladder – cystitis, with the penetration of infection into the kidneys – pyelonephritis.

• Urethritis – inflammation of the urethra. One of the reasons may be the penetration of infection from the anus into the urethra. This route of infection is especially common in women, since the anus and the opening of the urethra are located close to them. Urethritis is caused by sexually transmitted infections: chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes and others.
• Cystitis – inflammation of the bladder. Occurs when the infection spreads through the urethra to the bladder. A short urethra in women causes their frequent development of cystitis.
• Pyelonephritis – inflammation of the renal pelvis (part of the kidney). One of the reasons for the development of pyelonephritis is the penetration of infection from the bladder through the ureters into the kidneys. At the same time, body temperature rises, intense pain in the lumbar region occurs. Pyelonephritis can be accompanied by damage to the kidneys, a violation of their functions.

Who is at risk?

• Women, in particular:
  • using certain means of contraception – vaginal caps;
  • menopausal (hormonal changes make the urinary tract more susceptible to infections)
• Persons with abnormalities in the development of the organs of the urinary system – this often interferes with the normal excretion of urine, which contributes to the penetration and reproduction of bacteria.
• Persons with impaired normal urine flow. Diseases that can cause difficulty in the outflow of urine: prostate adenoma (accompanied by an increase in the size of this gland and squeezing of the urethra, which causes urinary retention in the bladder), kidney stones, etc. Urinary retention creates favorable conditions for the reproduction of bacteria.
• Immunocompromised people – various diseases (eg diabetes) cause a decrease in the body’s ability to fight infections, which increases the risk of diseases of the urinary system.
• Patients with a urinary catheter.

Diagnostics

Laboratory diagnostics plays a leading role in the detection of urinary tract infections.

• Urinalysis. Allows you to determine the various properties of urine (color, density, transparency), to identify inflammatory changes in the organs of the urinary system. An increase in the number of leukocytes in the urine, the presence of bacteria, mucus is observed with infections of the urinary system.
• Urinalysis according to Nechiporenko. It can be prescribed for changes in the general analysis of urine. This analysis shows the exact number of red blood cells, white blood cells, cylinders (protein particles that should not normally be) in the urine. The level of leukocytes indicates the severity of the inflammatory process.
• Culture for antibiotic susceptibility (morning urine). This study is of great importance for the treatment of infectious diseases of the urinary system. It allows you to identify the bacteria that caused the inflammation, and antibiotics that act specifically on this type of bacteria.
• Complete blood count (without leukocyte formula and ESR). Allows you to determine the number of erythrocytes, platelets, leukocytes, hemoglobin content in erythrocytes. The number of leukocytes increases with various inflammatory processes.

• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). One of the reasons for the increase in the erythrocyte sedimentation rate is the inflammatory process. Changes in ESR are not specific for urinary tract infection, but this indicator can be useful for assessing the severity of inflammation.

In infectious diseases of the urinary system, kidney function may be impaired. To assess its function, various tests are carried out, which include:

• Serum creatinine. Creatinine is formed in the muscles during various energy processes and then released into the blood. It is excreted from the body by the kidneys, and if their function is impaired, its level may increase.
• Serum urea. Urea is the end product of protein metabolism in the body. Excreted by the kidneys. With their diseases, its level rises.

Other studies

• Ultrasound examination of the kidneys, bladder (ultrasound). Allows you to get images of internal organs, identify developmental disorders of the urinary system, kidney stones and other changes.
• Computed tomography of the urinary system. Obtaining accurate layer-by-layer images of internal organs is of great importance in determining the possible causes of infectious diseases of the urinary system.
• Intravenous urography. X-ray method of examination of the urinary system. A special contrast agent is injected into the vein, then after a certain time a series of x-rays are taken, which show the passage of this substance through the urinary system. At the same time, kidney function is assessed, violations in the structure of the urinary tract, kidney stones and other diseases of the urinary system organs are detected.

Additional studies

• Cystoscopy. The method allows you to see the inner wall of the bladder, to perform various manipulations (for example, removal of stones, some tumors). A tube of an apparatus with an optical lens system is inserted into the urethra, then into the bladder, thus obtaining images. It is also used for chronic, often occurring inflammatory diseases of the bladder.

The scope of the required examination is determined by the attending physician.

Treatment

Various antibiotics are prescribed to treat urinary tract infections. The number of drugs, the duration of treatment, the route of administration of antibiotics (in tablets, intramuscularly, intravenously) depends on the severity of the disease and is prescribed by a doctor.

Prevention

• Drinking enough fluids helps flush out bacteria with urine.
• Do not tolerate the urge to urinate for a long time – prolonged stagnation of urine in the bladder increases the risk of infection.
• Women are advised to wash from front to back (from the pubis to the anus).

Recommended tests

• Urinalysis with microscopy
• Urinalysis according to Nechiporenko
• Complete blood count
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
• Serum creatinine
• Serum urea

Urinary Tract Infection,(UTI). Visit Our Specialist. CLINICA BRITANNIA 15/04/2021 – Clinica Britannia

Skip to content

Urinary Tract Infection,(UTI). Visit Our Specialist. CLINICA BRITANNIA 15/04/2021

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system – in the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. Most infections affect the lower urinary tract – the bladder and urethra.

Women are at greater risk of developing UTIs than men. An infection limited to the bladder can be painful and annoying. However, if a urinary tract infection reaches the kidneys, serious consequences can occur.
Urinary tract infections do not always cause signs and symptoms, but when they do they may include:

• Strong, persistent urge to urinate
• Burning when urinating
• Frequent passing of small amounts of urine
• Turbid urine
• Urine that is red, bright pink, or cola-colored indicates blood in the urine.
• Strong-smelling urine
• Pelvic pain in women – especially in the center of the pelvis and around the pubic bone area.

Contact our specialist if you have signs and symptoms of a UTI, Clinica Britannia [: es]Una Infcción del tracto urinario (ITU) es una Infcción en cualquier parte de su sistema urinario: sus riñones, uréteres, vejiga y uretra. La mayoria de las infercciones afectan el tracto urinario inferior: la vejiga y la uretra. Las mujeres tienen un Mayor riesgo de desarrollar una Infcción urinaria que los hombres. La Infección limitada a la vejiga puede ser dolorosa y Molesta. Sin embargo, pueden ocurrir conscuencias graves si una influenza urinaria seropa a los riñones. Las Infcciones del tracto urinario no siempre causan signos y sintomas, pero cuando lo hacen, pueden includeir:

• Una necesidad fuerte y persistente de orinar.
• Una sensación de ardor al orinar.
• Pasar pequeñas cantidades de orina con frecuencia
• Orina que parece turbia
• Orina de color rojo, rosa brillante o de color cola: un signo de sangre en la orina
• Orina de olor fuerte Dolor pélvico, en mujeres, especialmente en el centro de la pelvis y alrededor del área del hueso púbico.

Para más información visit a nuestro Especilista, Clínica Britannia  [: fr] ètre. La plupart des infections touch les voies urinaires inférieures – la vessie et l’urètre.

Les femmes sont plus à risque de développer unefection urinaire que les hommes. Une infection limitée à votre vessie peut être douloureuse et gênante. Cependant, des conséquences graves peuvent Survenir si une infections urinaire se propage à vos reins. Les influences des voies urinaires ne provoquent pas toujours de signes et de symptoms, mais quand elles le font, elles peuvent inclure:

• Une envie forte et persistante d’uriner
• Une sensation de brûlure en urinant
• Passer de petites Quantités d’urine frequentes
• Urine seems unpleasant
• Urine qui apparaît rouge, rose vif ou de couleur cola –
• Une signe de sang dans l’urine
• Urine à forte odeur Douleur pelvienne, chez la femme – en speulier au center du bassin et autour de la zone de l’os pubien

Contactez notre spécialiste, si vous présentez des signes et des symptoms of a single bladder infection, Clinica Britannia[: de]

Eine Harnwegsinfektion (UTI) ist eine Infektion in einem trustbigen Teil Ihres Harnsystems – Ihren Nieren, Harnleitern, der Blase und der Harnröhre.