10 Causes of UTI in Males
It might be less common, but men can get urinary tract infections, too. A man’s urinary system consists of the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. Urine passes from your kidneys to the bladder through the ureters. It travels down the bladder to the penis through urethra. UTI occurs when any part of the male’s urinary tract gets infected with bad bacteria.
It’s important to seek UTI treatment in Navi Mumbai if you experience a burning sensation while urinating, frequent urination, pain below the abdomen, blood in the urine, and other symptoms.
Top 10 causes of UTIs in males
1. Poor hygiene
Bad bacteria can enter your urethra and travel to the bladder and kidneys if you don’t follow basic hygiene practices. Simple tips like washing the genitals with clean water after using the washroom or having sexual intercourse can prevent bacteria from reaching the urethra.
2. Enlarged Prostate (BPH)
An enlarged prostate is common in older men. If you have an enlarged prostate, your bladder might not empty fully after passing urine, thus creating a perfect place for the bacteria to thrive.
3. Kidney Stones
Kidney stones can also block urine flow, causing immense pain and resulting in excess urine in the bladder. This makes your bladder a breeding ground for bacteria.
4. Catheter Use
A catheter helps empty the bladder. It’s used in men who can’t urinate on their own because of a medical condition. Having a catheter for a long duration can increase your risk of UTI, specifically if it’s not kept clean.
5. Unprotected Sex
Unprotected sex not only exposes you to sexually transmitted infections, but it can also cause UTIs in men. Bacteria E. coli, which are found in human feces, can reach the urethra during intercourse and might travel up the urinary tract, causing an infection. The risk is particularly higher for men who have anal sex.
6. Diabetes
Men with type 1 or type 2 diabetes have a heightened risk of catching UTIs due to a weakened immune system.
7. Dehydration
Dehydration can make your urine concentrate. This means fewer visits to the washroom, which may eventually make you more vulnerable to UTIs.
8. Weakened Immunity
Men with weakened immunity, whether due to a chronic illness or other medical reasons, might also get UTIs easily. Weakened immune system makes your body less effective in fighting off bacteria.
9. Bladder issues
Neurogenic bladder, structural bladder deformities, or medications that can negatively interfere with your bladder function can make you more vulnerable to UTIs. If your bladder malfunctions, it won’t be able to expel pee properly, creating a perfect environment for bacterial growth.
10. Past infections
Men with a history of UTIs might get it again, specifically those who haven’t addressed the underlying cause of the infection.
Prevention Tips
A urologist in Navi Mumbai recommends these preventive strategies to mitigate your risk of getting urinary tract infections.
- Do not hold your pee
- Drink enough fluids
- Do not engage in unprotected sexual intercourse
- Keep your genitals clean and practice good hygiene
Talk to a urologist to learn more about preventive strategies for urinary infections.
