Urinary tract infection is a common ailment, especially among women. This condition is marked by symptoms such as lower abdominal pain, increased frequency of urination, painful urination, and occasionally, blood in the urine.

It is more prevalent in women due to anatomical factors; the urethra in women is shorter, making it easier for bacterial infections to reach the bladder. The most common cause of infection is the Escherichia coli bacterium. Under certain conditions, such as improper wiping from back to front after bowel movements, active sexual activity, or long-term catheter use, the Escherichia coli bacterium can enter the bladder.

Symptoms and signs of urinary tract infection can vary from person to person. Common symptoms in adults include painful or burning sensation during urination, frequent but small amounts of urine, lower abdominal pain, strong-smelling urine, darker urine, or sometimes blood in the urine, fever, and pain during sexual intercourse.

Several diagnostic tests can be performed to identify urinary tract infections. The most basic is urinalysis to detect the presence of bacterial infection in the urine. Urine culture can also be conducted to provide information about which antibiotics are effective against the causative bacteria. This helps doctors determine appropriate antibiotic therapy. Imaging tests such as ultrasound can be used to observe any structural abnormalities that might be causing the urinary tract infection.

Mild urinary tract infections can often resolve on their own. To expedite healing, patients should drink an adequate amount of water, apply warm compresses to the painful area, abstain from sexual intercourse until symptoms subside, and consider taking pain relievers. In severe cases, such as those accompanied by fever, antibiotics may be prescribed by a doctor. If left untreated, urinary tract infections can spread to the upper urinary tract and kidneys. In children, they can also disrupt normal growth and development.

To prevent recurrent urinary tract infections, it's important to stay hydrated, avoid holding in urine, maintain urogenital hygiene by wiping from front to back to prevent bacteria from the anus reaching the urinary tract, and clean the urogenital area after sexual intercourse.

Author: Dr. Clarinda Hermanto (Medical Consultant at PRAMITA Laboratory Medical Center, Branch at Jl. Bambang Sugeng No. A2 Magelang)