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Though developing a urinary tract is common for both sexes, women are more prone to develop one than is a man. The reason behind this is thought to be because of the biology of a woman. Entrance to the urinary tract system is through the urethra which is located very near to the area of the rectum where lots of E.coli bacteria flourish.

E.coli is just one source of a urinary tract infection. There are many causes and just as many treatments for those people who suffer with frequent urinary tract infections. For common urinary tract infections caused by the E.coli bacteria, there are many treatments you can effectively use at home.

There are different types of urinary tract infections that a person can develop. We will discuss these different types along with some of the symptoms that accompany them.

Nephritis

Nephritis is defined as any kind of inflammation of the kidneys. Some symptoms of nephritis can be a reduced flow of urine, blood in the urine or a cloudy appearance to your urine. Nephritis can affect one or both of your kidneys. You may experience an edema which is retention of fluid abnormally, or you may experience pain in the area of your kidneys or your loins. Your doctor may order a hematuria which is a diagnostic workup to see if you have this condition. You will also have a urinalysis so the doctor can see what is in the sediment of your urine. This condition is commonly treated with antibiotics.

Cystitis

Cystitis is the most common type of urinary tract infection. The condition refers to inflammation or infection of the bladder. Some symptoms you may experience when you have cystitis are pain or burning when urinating, feeling an urgent need to eliminate as well as frequent trips to the bathroom. Often this type of urinary tract infection is easily treated with antibiotics and should clear up quickly.

Pyelonephritis

This condition is caused by bacteria that have spread from the bladder and causes a kidney or ureter infection. If your doctor thinks you have pyelonephritis, he may want to do urine testing or take x-rays. Some of the common symptoms for those with pyelonephritis are pain in the side, back, loins or groin. You may also experience symptoms of cystitis along with a fever, vomiting or nausea. This can be accompanied by chills and shivering. Your doctor will often prescribe a course of antibiotics, painkillers and advise you to get plenty of bed rest and drink lots of fluids.

Urethritis

Having urethritis means that your urethra is inflamed. Some symptoms you may experience if you are suffering with urethritis are discharge from the urethra, and burning or pain when you are urinating. Some underlying conditions that can contribute to a patient developing urethritis are sexually transmitted diseases, trauma to the urethra during intercourse, trauma or damage to the urethra from horseback riding or cycling. There are many other ways that one can develop urethritis such as wearing tight pants, misplacing your tampon, having sexual intercourse without lubrication to name just a few of the common causes patients develop urethritis. Usually sufferers of urethritis are prescribed a course of antibiotics by their health care provider.

How to Avoid Developing a Urinary Tract Infection

There are many things the average person can do in order to avoid developing a urinary tract infection in the first place. Good hygiene in your genital area is especially important if you are a woman. You can be sure you are properly lubricated before intercourse as well as urinating both before and after the act. You can also utilize cotton underwear that won't irritate or rub against the area when you are sitting. You can also be sure you drink a lot of fluids and urinate whenever the urge strikes you. If you hold your urine in for long periods of time, it can stretch your bladder as well as allow bacteria already present time to flourish and grow.

There are many natural and herbal remedies available over the counter if you suffer with frequent urinary tract infections. If you are experiencing any pain in your back, side or pelvic area or if you are experiencing blood in the urine, you should see your doctor for further treatment advice.