A UTI occurs when bacteria get into the urine and travel up to the bladder. According to statistics, UTIs cause more than 8.1 million visits to health care providers every year. And approximately 12% of men tend to have UTIs during their lifetime.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of UTI:
Dysuria is the most common complaint in men with UTIs. Other symptoms depend on the location of the UTI; these include:
- Frequent trips to the bathroom
- Urge to urinate all the time
- Pain, discomfort, or burning sensation during or after urinating
- Tenderness or pain below the stomach
- Wetting the bed
- Smelly or cloudy urine
- Blood in the urine
- Fever
- Nausea
- Upper back or side pain
However, these symptoms vary from patient to patient. It should be noted that some men don’t have any symptoms at all.
Who’s At Higher Risk of Getting a UTI?
Older Men:
UTIs are common in older men due to a higher chance of developing benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or an enlarged prostate. With BPH, the prostate gland tends to enlarge and tie around the neck of the bladder, which makes it difficult for urine to flow. This means that the typically flushed out bacteria build up in the bladder, leading to infection. Older men also have an increased likelihood of experiencing fecal incontinence, triggering UTIs.
Younger Men Who Are Sexually Active:
Sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea can trigger UTIs in younger men.
Men Who Have Anal Intercourse
Anal intercourse exposes the urethra to bacteria (of the rectum) and increases the risk of developing a UTI.
Uncircumcised Men
According to studies, lack of circumcision can also increase UTI risk in younger men and boys.
If you experience frequent or painful urination symptoms, reach out to a medical professional today. The right treatment can improve the quality of your life.
Book an appointment with MedTell today!