Ailments and Situations - Urinary Tract Infectin or UTI - Causes

 

Causes:

Bacterial infections of the urinary tract result in inflammation of the bladder and irritation of the walls of the urinary tract. Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the most common bacterium to cause infection. Normally located in the intestines, E. coli can spread externally through fecal contamination and enter the urinary tract. Bacteria can also be introduced to the urethra via vaginal secretions. Bacteria buildups also occur when urine is not released from the body when prompted and signals to go the bathroom are ignored.

Men who have an enlarged prostate often experience UTI as well. The enlarged prostate slows the passing of urine, increasing the chances of developing an infection. Bacteria can also migrate from an infected prostate gland and can also ascend the urethra. If a man was not aware of a potential prostate problem a bladder infection may provide a sign.

Pregnancy, sexual intercourse, using a diaphragm, and diabetes all increase the likelihood of having a bladder infection. Physical abnormalities, obstructions of the urinary tract, and/or a narrowed urinary tract (from previous infections), further increase the chances of infection.

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