What is urinary tract infection (UTI)?

• If the infection is in the urinary bladder, it is called cystitis.
• If the infection is in the urethra (the tube-like part that allows urine to pass out of the body), it is called urethritis.
• If the infection reaches the kidneys, it is called pyelonephritis.

Why are diabetics prone to urinary tract infections?

• A higher concentration of glucose in the urine allows the disease-causing bacteria to grow.
• High glucose levels in the renal parenchyma (a part of the kidney) provide a favourable environment for the multiplication of microorganisms, which ultimately results in the kidney getting infected.
• Impairment of different types of immunity (humoral, cellular and innate immunity) in diabetics allows the disease-causing bacteria to cause infection.
• Nerve damage (neuropathy) in the urinary tract of diabetics can result in urinary retention and inability to urinate properly, thus resulting in reduced bacterial clearance and increased chances of infection. Studies reveal 26% to 85% of diabetic women develop bladder dysfunction due to diabetic neuropathy.

What are the signs of urinary tract infection in diabetics?

• Constant feeling of the need to urinate
• Pain or burning sensation while urinating
• Foul-smelling urine
• Cloudy urine
• Pain in the abdomen and the back
• Blood in the urine

• Diarrhoea
• High fever
• Chills
• Vomiting
• Pain in the back and side (flank)

How can urinary tract infections be prevented?

• Maintain normal blood sugar level as too much glucose (sugar) in the urine would encourage bacterial growth in the urinary tract.
• Try and keep the genital area clean and dry. Do not use a scented soap or intimate wash products as they can irritate the genital region.
• Carefully clean and wipe the genital area from front to back after urinating or passing stool.
• Drink plenty of water so that any bacteria in the tract gets flushed on passing the urine.
• Wash the genitals with water (especially women), before and after sexual intercourse.
• Urinate after sexual intercourse.
• Do not hold the urine.
• Do not rush to empty the bladder while urinating.
• Wear cotton-based undergarments and avoid synthetic underwear.
• Change adult diapers or pads immediately if they are soiled.
• Avoid or limit alcoholic beverages as they can irritate and inflame the urinary bladder.

What can be done to treat urinary tract infections in diabetics?

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