Medical Conditions - Urinary Tract Infections – Urethritis, Cystitis, Pyelonephritis and Glyconutrients
Normal urine contains fluids, salts, and waste products. It is free from bacteria, viruses and fungi ie it is sterile. The urinary tract can be infected from above (by bacteria entering the kidneys from the bloodstream and travelling downwards) or from below (by bacteria entering the urethra and travelling upwards). Infection from the bloodstream is sometimes seen in newborns with generalised infection where the bacteria in the bloodstream pass through the filters of the kidney into the urine.
Most infections arise when bacteria from the digestive tract, cling to the opening of the urethra and begin to multiply. The bacteria responsible for most urinary tract infections is Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is normally in the colon. When the infection is limited to the urethra it is called urethritis, when it travels to the bladder, it is called cystitis, and if the infection is not treated promptly bacteria may proceed up the ureters to infect the kidneys where it is called pyelonephritis.
The urinary tract is structured in such a way as to ward off infections. The ureters and bladder normally prevent urine from backing up toward the kidneys, and the flow of urine from the bladder helps wash bacteria out of the body. The body's natural immune function prevents infection and in men, the prostate gland produces secretions that slow bacterial growth.
Some people are more prone to urinary tract infections than others. People with an abnormality of the urinary tract, such as kidney stones, that obstructs the flow of urine sets the stage for infection, as does an enlarged prostate gland. A common source of infection is catheters in the bladder. Women who use a diaphragm, and women whose partners use a condom with a spermicidal foam are more likely to develop an infection. Women are also thought to be more at risk because of the length of their urethra. People with diabetes have a higher risk of a urinary tract infection because of changes in the immune system. Any disorder that suppresses the immune system raises the risk of infection.
Although a person can have a urinary tract infection without obvious symptoms, most times the symptoms are not easy to miss. They include a strong urge to pass urine, pain or burning sensation in the urethra when urine is released, and urine tinged with blood. The desire to urinate recurs often and soreness may be felt in the lower abdomen, back or sides. If the infection has spread to the kidneys, the symptoms include back pain, chills, fever, nausea, and vomiting.
Urinary tract infections are typically treated with potent antibiotic drugs. Research has found that E. coli bacteria (the most common bacteria causing UTIs) have sugar molecules that enable them to stick to the cells that occupy the lining of the bladder, and that supplementation with the essential glyconutrients can reduce the severity of a urinary tract infection within 24 hours. Plant sugars (glyconutrients) fight bacteria in two ways: they prevent bacteria from reproducing, and they improve immune cell defense.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this medical condition section is strictly educational and not intended as medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment of medical disorders, consult your health care professional.