Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a prevalent health issue that predominantly affects women, but men, referred to as "uti men", are not immune. The urinary tract includes the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra, and an infection in any part of this tract can result in uncomfortable symptoms and potential complications if not treated promptly.
Understanding UTIs in Men
Urinary tract infections in men, although less common due to the length and anatomy of their urethra (water pipe), can be severe and require immediate attention and treatment.
These infections occur when bacteria, primarily Escherichia coli, naturally present in the body, enter the urinary tract.
UTI Symptoms in Men
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection in males include a burning sensation during urination, cloudy urine, frequent urge to urinate, and urine pain. These symptoms can be accompanied by chills, nausea, and abnormal narrowing of the urethra, known as urethral stricture, which impedes the ability to drain urine efficiently.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several risk factors can contribute to the development of UTIs in men. An enlarged prostate gland or benign prostatic hyperplasia can obstruct urine flow, allowing bacteria to grow in the urinary tract.
Other factors like urinary catheter usage, kidney stones, uncontrolled diabetes, immunosuppressive medications or abnormalities in the urinary tract structure can also be contributing elements.
Younger men and those with a weakened immune system are particularly at risk.
How are UTIs diagnosed in men?
A detailed medical history covering how one is passing urine and physical examination (includes examination of the abdomen, genitals and rectal exam).
Diagnosing a urinary tract infection in men involves a urine dipstick. A urine sample is sent for urinalysis (to detect blood, white blood cells and nitrites).
A urine culture may also be performed to identify the type of bacteria causing the infection and begin treatment accordingly.
Other laboratory tests include a full blood count (FBC), a kidney function test, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and HBA1c.
Treatment for UTI in Men
Typically, doctors prescribe antibiotics to treat urinary tract infections. The type and length of antibiotic treatment may vary depending on the severity of the infection.
Maintaining enough fluids to flush out the bacteria and prevent urinary tract infections is key.
Drinking cranberry juice, D-mannose, and Hiprex can be recommended.
The main reason for urinary tract infections and recurrent UTIs in middle-aged men is incomplete bladder emptying. The doctor may order a flow test and post-void residual. Medications like Tamsulosin, or Finasteride or Cialis a combination of both may be prescribed.
Addressing Complicated Infections
Abnormal narrowing of the urethra or urinary catheter usage forms part of this category.
The urologist may request a flexible cystoscopy to rule out the urethral stricture or stones. One can also assess the prostate gland and bladder.
For those with indwelling catheters, the doctor will review if there is a chance to get rid of the catheter, and if not, one has to think about hydration, diet, and bowel habits. Your doctor will consider changing the urethral catheter to a suprapubic one.
Complications and Seriousness
If left untreated, urinary tract infections can ascend to the upper urinary tract, leading to serious complications like kidney infection (pyelonephritis).
This is primarily a concern in men with pre-existing or digestive and kidney diseases. Timely and prompt treatment is crucial to prevent complications and severe health repercussions.
Prevention Strategies
Men should practice good personal hygiene, stay well-hydrated, and avoid holding in urine for extended periods to prevent UTIs. Moreover, addressing issues like an enlarged prostate and avoiding using urinary catheters whenever possible can also mitigate the risk of urinary tract infections.
Impact on the Prostate Gland
An enlarged prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia can cause frequent urination, slowing of the urine stream, and other urinary symptoms (hesitancy, post-micturition dribbling), which can mimic or complicate urinary tract infections.
Addressing prostate gland issues is essential in managing and preventing urinary tract infections in men.
FAQ Section
Q: How does a man get rid of a urinary tract infection?
A: Typically, men are prescribed antibiotics to treat UTIs and maintain high fluid intake. If one has prostatitis, they may need a prolonged course of antibiotics. Medication like tamsulosin or finasteride or cialis or a combination of these may be prescribed.
What happens if medications to improve emptying the bladder do not work?
If medical treatment fails to improve urinary voiding habits, one can be offered surgical procedures, which include;
- Transurethral resection of prostate (TURP)
- Holmium Laser Enucleation of the prostate (HoleP)
- UroLift
- Aquablation
- Prostate Arterial Embolisation
Q: Is a urinary tract infection in men serious?
A: While UTIs in men are less common, they can be severe, leading to complications like kidney infections if not treated promptly.
Repeated bladder infections lead to bladder stone formation and the risk of the infection affecting the genital system, leading to epididymitis or epididymal-orchitis.
Q: What does a kidney infection feel like for a man?
A: A kidney infection may cause symptoms like persistent pain in the lower back or side, high fever, and frequent urination, often accompanied by a burning sensation.
Q: How do you treat a kidney infection in a man?
A: Kidney infections are typically treated with antibiotics, and hospitalisation may be required in severe cases. Imaging and assessing urinary voiding habits are key parts of the management plan.
Q: What are the symptoms of a water infection in a male?
A: Symptoms include frequent urination with a burning sensation, lower abdominal pain, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine.
If prostatitis develops, one can complain of perineal pain (which worsens when one sits down), pelvic pain, fever, urine frequency and urgency.
Q: How long do kidney infections last in men?
A: With prompt treatment, symptoms of kidney infections typically improve within a few days but completing the antibiotic course is around 14 days. Feeling very tired for a prolonged period is a common complaint.
Reflection on UTI in men from a consultant urologist
Although less frequent, urinary tract infections in men can lead to severe complications if not addressed promptly. Recognising the symptoms, understanding the risk factors, and seeking immediate medical attention are crucial in managing men's UTIs. With proper hygiene, adequate fluid intake, and attention to underlying health conditions like enlarged prostate and kidney diseases, men can significantly reduce their risk of developing urinary tract infections.
