Published on: August 29, 2024
As of 2023, about 11% of the Floridian adult population has been diagnosed with diabetes. With over two million people working to manage this condition in the state, it’s essential to understand the increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) among diabetic patients. UTIs can be incredibly uncomfortable, but you can take steps to prevent the chances of getting this type of infection. Keep reading as we discover the connection between urinary tract infections and diabetes and common symptoms of UTIs to look out for. The sooner you work to manage these conditions, the easier it will be to look after your health for years to come.
What Are Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)?
A urinary tract infection is an illness within the urinary tract system, the organs in your body that produce, collect and eliminate urine. UTIs usually start when bacteria enter the urethra, the tube where urine comes out of your body. Females are typically more susceptible to UTIs, but having diabetes can increase anyone’s risk of a UTI. Common symptoms of UTIs include a strong need to urinate, needing to urinate more often or a burning sensation when urinating. You may also notice pain in your back or bladder and fever. The most common types of UTIs include cystitis, urethritis, and pyelonephritis.
UTIs begin when bacteria enter into the urinary tract, and the risk increases with the use of certain types of birth control, from poor hygiene and from an impaired immune system. Due to certain risk factors associated with having diabetes, you’ll find that you may experience this type of infection more often than someone without diabetes.
How Diabetes Increases the Risk of UTIs
The link between diabetes and UTIs can sometimes be overlooked. If you have diabetes your immune system might be weakened and less effective, making it more challenging for your body to fight infections like UTIs. In addition, high blood sugar levels can lead to sugar in the urine, a breeding ground for bacteria. Poor bladder function is another factor contributing to an increased risk for UTIs. Nerve damage from diabetes can affect bladder control, resulting in urinary retention. This stagnant urine is a breeding ground for bacteria, resulting in UTIs.
When someone with diabetes gets their first UTI, they will often find that it becomes a recurring issue due to the factors we’ve shared above. The symptoms are typically bothersome and can stop you from enjoying everyday activities. Symptoms can worsen quickly, and effective treatment is critical for anyone with diabetes to ensure the infection does not worsen.
Symptoms of UTIs in Diabetic Patients
If you have diabetes, knowing the symptoms of UTIs and looking out for them is essential. The most common symptoms are painful urination, a frequent urge to urinate, and urine that appears cloudy or has blood in it. Often symptoms can be more severe, leading to fever and other complications. Early detection and treatment are critical to avoid issues associated with either UTIs or diabetes management. If you have any symptoms, seek medical aid at once to avoid long-term health issues and decrease the chances of the infection returning.
Preventing UTIs in Diabetic Patients
While it may be concerning to know that there is an increased chance of UTIs when you have diabetes, there are steps you can take to prevent these infections. Blood sugar management is critical for anyone with diabetes, but keeping your blood sugar levels under control can also reduce the risk of a UTI and stop bacteria from breeding and growing. You must work with your healthcare provider to have a plan to manage your condition and regularly monitor your blood sugar levels no matter how busy your day gets. Hydrating is also critical to preventing UTIs, as it can help flush out the urinary tract and ensure bacteria don’t remain stagnant and build up. Regular urination and fully emptying your bladder each time you go to the bathroom helps prevent bacterial buildup and keeps your bladder healthier.
Good hygiene practices should be always maintained to reduce the chance of infection. Cleaning correctly in the shower or bath helps to reduce the chances of bacteria breeding or spreading. Ensure you change your underwear regularly and avoid clothes that are too tight or make you sweat. Regular medical check-ups are a crucial part of successfully managing diabetes. You should also talk to your medical provider about screenings for UTIs if you have symptoms or for other infections that could cause potential future health complications.
Managing UTIs in Diabetic Patients
Should you experience any of the symptoms of UTIs, seek immediate medical attention upon the first sign of a UTI. This immediate attention can help you get the treatment and medication you need to clear up the infection as quickly as possible. Once diagnosed, you’ll want to carefully monitor your UTI to ensure the symptoms are lessening and fully disappearing during your antibiotics treatment. In the long term, you’ll need to follow the tips we’ve shared above and work to avoid recurrent infections after your first UTI.
By following the advice we’ve shared here today, you can keep yourself healthy by managing your diabetes and preventing additional health complications. UTIs can be very unpleasant and uncomfortable to deal with, but with good hygiene, blood sugar management, and regular hydration, you can minimize the chances of this issue.
About IDATB | Infectious Disease Clinic in Tampa, Florida
Infectious Disease Associates of Tampa Bay (IDATB) is a medical practice based in Tampa, Florida, specializing in diagnosing, treating, and managing infectious diseases. The clinic serves a diverse patient population and offers comprehensive care for various infections, including HIV / AIDS, hepatitis, and other complex conditions. IDATB is known for its ability in handling acute and chronic infectious diseases, providing personalized treatment plans, and supporting patients with long-term care. The clinic collaborates with hospitals and other healthcare providers in the Tampa Bay metro area to deliver the highest standard of care.
