Explained: What do recurring UTIs say about overall health
Chronic UTIs also pose a risk of complications. Nonspecific treatment or lack of treatment of recurrent infections can lead to progression to pyelonephritis, an infection of the kidney. Although rare, chronic infection may result in scarring of the kidneys or loss of kidney function.
New Delhi: Recurrent UTIs are two or more episodes of infection within six months or three or more in one year. When an episode of recurrent UTIs occurs in a young adult, it is cause for concern, especially since UTIs do not generally occur frequently in this age group with a normal urogenital structure or anatomy.
In an interaction with TV9 English, Dr. Suresh Bhagat, Associate Director- Urology, Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital, Powai, explained that recurring UTIs can affect health and what they mean for wellbeing.
The biggest issue with recurrent UTIs is the risk of an underlying cause. UTIs can be a manifestation of predisposing conditions like kidney or ureteric stones, urinary obstruction such as urethral strictures, diabetes, neurogenic bladder, or incomplete bladder emptying. Some may have an underactive bladder or have anatomical abnormalities that put them at risk of infection. Catheter use also raises the risk of recurrent UTIs.
Chronic UTIs also pose a risk of complications. Nonspecific treatment or lack of treatment of recurrent infections can lead to progression to pyelonephritis, an infection of the kidney. Although rare, chronic infection may result in scarring of the kidneys or loss of kidney function. Recurrent UTIs in men may represent chronic prostatitis or urinary obstruction, which require specific evaluation and treatment.
Another serious problem related to recurrent UTIs is antibiotic resistance. Overuse of antibiotics, particularly without recommendation, can cause resistant organisms to develop, making subsequent infections harder to manage. This underscores the need to utilize antibiotics wisely and only where necessitated by culture findings.
Assessment of recurrent UTIs commonly involves standard urine tests and urine cultures to establish infection and direct proper treatment. Serum creatinine can be evaluated to determine kidney function. Imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scan are reserved for those suspected of having kidney stones or urinary obstruction. Blood sugar, fasting glucose, and postprandial glucose are measured to exclude diabetes. Evaluation of prostate status is critical in men.
Treatment of recurrent UTIs consists of ensuring proper hydration and avoiding unnecessary antibiotic therapy. All treatment must be culture-sensitive sensitivity report-based. If an underlying cause is found, that should be treated. Low-dose prophylactic antibiotics or cranberry supplements in selected situations can be used. Dietary modifications, i.e., eating a fibre-rich diet to avoid constipation, and educating patients on the importance of maintaining good perineal hygiene are also preventive measures.
In short, adult recurrent UTIs are a concern clinically because they signal an underlying condition and pose risks of complications. A proper and timely medical evaluation is needed for effective prevention and management