We don't know how you got a UTI - in most cases, bacteria (usually from the digestive tract and rectal area) begin growing in the urethra. They cling to the opening of the urethra and begin to multiply. An infection only in the urethra is called urethritis . From there, bacteria move to the bladder, causing a bladder infection ( cystitis ). If the infection is not treated right away, bacteria may then go up the ureters (two tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder) and infect the kidneys ( pyelonephritis ).
Most infections are caused by one type of bacteria called E. coli . E. coli normally lives in the colon. In women, since the rectum and urethra are fairly close to each other, the bacteria can move into the urethra. This makes women more prone to UTIs than men.
UTIs can also be sexually transmitted. This type of infection usually does not spread past the urethra. Both partners need to be treated.
Some UTI's contain crystals, some don't. Causes could be genetic, dehydration or poor diet - or other health conditions you may not know you have. Your doctor should run more tests to see what the crystals mean for your health.
Untreated UTI's can lead to more serious kidney infections so they need to be treated.
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Hello Anon
Thank you for writing.
We don't know how you got a UTI - in most cases, bacteria (usually from the digestive tract and rectal area) begin growing in the urethra. They cling to the opening of the urethra and begin to multiply. An infection only in the urethra is called urethritis . From there, bacteria move to the bladder, causing a bladder infection ( cystitis ). If the infection is not treated right away, bacteria may then go up the ureters (two tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder) and infect the kidneys ( pyelonephritis ).
Most infections are caused by one type of bacteria called E. coli . E. coli normally lives in the colon. In women, since the rectum and urethra are fairly close to each other, the bacteria can move into the urethra. This makes women more prone to UTIs than men.
UTIs can also be sexually transmitted. This type of infection usually does not spread past the urethra. Both partners need to be treated.
Some UTI's contain crystals, some don't. Causes could be genetic, dehydration or poor diet - or other health conditions you may not know you have. Your doctor should run more tests to see what the crystals mean for your health.
Untreated UTI's can lead to more serious kidney infections so they need to be treated.
Your doctor will be able to help you more.
September 14, 2018 - 12:34pmSusan
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