A urinary problem is an infection or other abnormality of the urinary tract or bladder. There are many different types of urinary problems, many of which are easily treatable. It is important to get medical assessment if urinary-related symptoms appear, as some conditions can grow quite serious if not promptly diagnosed and treated.
One very common urinary problem is a urinary tract infection or UTI. These infections are a result of bacteria entering the bladder and causing inflammation. Common ways for bacteria to enter the urinary tract include sexual intercourse, fecal bacterial transfer, and inadequate hygiene practices. Typical symptoms include discomfort, pain or itching, frequent urination or a feeling of needing to urinate constantly.
UTIs are particularly common in women, since it is easy for bacteria to enter the urinary tract. Most can be easily treated with antibiotics, although some women have frequent infections with little evident cause. Untreated, a urinary tract infection can result in a severe kidney infection or other complications. Over the counter testing kits are available to determine if a UTI is present, though if symptoms continue after getting a negative result, seeing a doctor is often recommended.
Another type of urinary problem has to do with muscular control over the bladder. Urinary incontinence is characterized by urine leaking, adult bed wetting, or other situations in which the bladder cannot be controlled. Most common in the elderly, urinary incontinence can also be the result of physical stress on a weak or loose muscle system. Following childbirth, many women experience incontinence due to the muscular exhaustion of the entire body.
Some people experience a type of urinary problem known as an overactive bladder. The result of nerve damage, side effects from medication, UTIs, or other related conditions, this urinary problem manifests as a sudden, desperate need to urinate. Many people with overactive bladders have associated problems with insomnia, as they wake up repeatedly during the night due to the feeling of urgency.
While many urinary problems are not terribly dangerous, some symptoms can be a indicative of a more serious health issue. Many of the symptoms for bladder or prostate cancer, such as painful urination, urgency, or increased frequency of urination, are the same symptoms found with minor urinary problems. Additional symptoms include blood in urine, weight loss, unexplained muscle fatigue or exhaustion, and abdominal pain. Many health experts recommend visiting a doctor immediately if urinary symptoms appear, in order to rule out serious conditions and treat minor ones.
