Factors That Cause Urethritis
Urinary tract infections (UTIs), such as urethritis, are caused by the entry of pathogenic microorganisms into the urinary tract. Most urinary tract infections are caused by bacteria, although fungi and viruses can also play a role.
Typically, the body eliminates bacteria before symptoms appear. However, a number of risk factors, including sexual activity and underlying health concerns, can increase the likelihood of developing a urinary tract infection.
Bacterial infections – An infection of the urinary tract can occur anywhere in the upper or lower urinary tract (kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra). UTIs affect the lower urinary tract, specifically the bladder and urethra. Proteus mirabilis, Escherichia coli (E.Coli), and Klebsiella pneumoniae are some of the most common microorganisms associated with urethritis.
Keeping Urine In – A buildup of harmful bacteria in your bladder can occur if you don’t urinate frequently enough or if you don’t empty your bladder entirely when you do.
Kidney Stones – Kidney stones have the potential to obstruct urine passage and the urinary tract.
Blood and urine sugar levels can be elevated in individuals with diabetes. This can contribute to a proliferation of bacteria in the urine.
Recent Use of a Bladder or Urinary Catheter – Rather than having to urinate on your own, urine is drained from your bladder into a receptacle using these tubes. They are commonly used after specific surgical procedures.
Health Problems
Several chronic health conditions may also elevate the risk of UTIs. Due to an impaired immune system, diabetes, for instance, can impair the body’s ability to combat bacteria. Alzheimer’s disease, for instance, may increase the risk of UTIs due to its ability to impair personal sanitation. Additionally, the following individuals may be at increased risk for urinary tract infections:
Those with nerve damage around the bladder and spinal cord injuries, which can impede complete bladder evacuation, may require catheterization.
Individuals with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) or other urinary tract abnormalities Individuals with kidney stones, enlarged prostates, or any other condition that impedes the normal flow of urine and promotes bacterial growth
Patients suffering from bowel incontinence
Individuals with a history of recent catheterization
Individual Hygiene
Personal hygiene practises are also considered to be UTI risk factors. They consist of:
Utilisation of feminine hygiene powders and aerosols
Following urination or a bowel movement, women should clean from the back to the front.
Urinary retention (or holding it in) for an abnormally extended period of time.
Long-term immobilisation (such as during the recuperation process of an injury or illness).
Molecular genetics
According to emerging research, genetics may play a role in urinary tract infections. A study published in Nature Reviews: Urology suggests that genetic variation in immune response may either affect the severity of UTIs or protect against them. However, more research is required before the genetic causes of UTIs can be thoroughly understood.
Factors That Cause Urethritis In Women
An anatomy
Women are more susceptible to urethritis due to anatomical differences. The shorter urethra in females makes it simpler for microorganisms to infect the bladder. In addition, the opening of a woman’s urethra is substantially closer to the rectum, where bacteria that cause UTIs reside.
Having Sexual Activity
UTIs are caused by microorganisms inhabiting the anus. During sexual activity, bacteria migrate to the front of the body, where they can enter the urethra and travel to the bladder.
Contraceptives or Diaphragms
Birth control pills can facilitate the entry of pathogenic microorganisms into the urinary tract. In and around the vagina, spermicides may eliminate beneficial bacteria, allowing detrimental bacteria to thrive.
During pregnancy
Due to changes in the urinary tract caused by pregnancy, UTIs are also more prevalent during pregnancy, particularly from week six to week 24. As the uterus develops and becomes heavier, it may impede the complete drainage of urine from the bladder, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections in pregnant women. Additionally, pregnancy hormones can transform the chemical composition of urine, promoting the growth of harmful bacteria.
The menopause
Menopausal women may be associated with a substantially increased risk of urinary tract infections. This may be because hormonal fluctuations may influence the beneficial bacteria that combat detrimental microorganisms in the urinary tract. Due to increased vaginal dryness, a decline in female sexual hormones (particularly oestrogen levels) during menopause can increase the risk of developing a urinary tract infection.
Employing Tiny Pants
Because there is little space between the urethra, vagina, and rectum, thong, teddy bear, and string bikini knickers can capture bacteria in the vaginal area.
Factors That Cause Urethritis in Men
Medically referred to as BPH or benign prostatic hyperplasia, an enlarged prostate can make it difficult to discharge the bladder. Enlargement of the prostate weakens the bladder muscles and can also obstruct the passage of urine from the bladder.
Men over the age of 60 are more susceptible to urethritis and other UTIs.
Anal intercourse without protection can transmit bacteria that cause UTIs and urethritis.
