It seems that some people are more prone to developing urinary tract infections than others. In fact, it is estimated that while both men and children develop these infections, over half of all women experience at least one UTI during her lifetime. Many researchers and doctors believe that women get these more often because of the simple fact that their urethras are short than those of men and this allows bacteria to enter the bladder quicker. Bacteria in the bladder causes urinary tract infections and this is quite common.
There are other risk factors to developing these painful infections. Women who are sexually active are more likely to get them than those who are not. Germs and bacteria can not only irritate the urethra, but it can also introduce germs into the area. For men, risk factors that can lead to urinary tract infections include anything that impedes the flow of urine. Urine that stays in the bladder can cause infections to grow. A kidney stone or an enlarged prostate can easily cause a UTI. Sometimes prescription medications can cause UTIs. This includes common medication taken for chemotherapy and sometimes antibiotics. Diabetes and other medical conditions can give you a higher chance of developing a urinary tract infection.
If you find that you are getting urinary tract infections often, it is important that you pinpoint one of these risk factors so you can prevent getting them in the future. Find out if you have an underlying medical condition that could cause your painful infections.
