Urinveisinfeksjon

Urinveisinfeksjon, often abbreviated as UVI, refers to an infection affecting any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Most commonly, infections occur in the lower urinary tract, specifically the bladder (cystitis) and urethra (urethritis). Kidney infections (pyelonephritis) are more serious.

The most frequent cause of urinary tract infections is bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli (E. coli), which normally resides in the digestive tract. These bacteria can enter the urinary tract through the urethra and multiply. Women are more susceptible to UTIs than men due to their shorter urethra, which allows bacteria to reach the bladder more easily. Other risk factors include sexual activity, certain types of birth control, menopause, urinary tract abnormalities, and conditions that obstruct urine flow, such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate.

Symptoms can vary depending on the location of the infection. Common signs include a burning sensation during urination, frequent urination, a strong urge to urinate, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, and pelvic pain. In more severe cases, such as kidney infections, symptoms may include fever, chills, back pain, and nausea or vomiting.

Diagnosis is typically made based on symptoms and a urine sample that is tested for the presence of bacteria and white blood cells. Treatment for uncomplicated UTIs usually involves a course of antibiotics. For recurrent or complicated infections, further investigation or different treatment strategies may be necessary. Prevention strategies include drinking plenty of fluids, urinating after sexual intercourse, and avoiding irritating feminine products.