Latest news with #UTI
Health Line
2 days ago
- General
- Health Line
Excessive Urination at Night (Nocturia): Causes and Treatment
Nocturia, or nocturnal polyuria, is the medical term for excessive urination at night. Nighttime peeing is considered excessive if it's disruptive to your sleep. During sleep time, your body produces less urine that is more concentrated. This means that most people don't need to wake up during the night to urinate and can sleep uninterrupted for 6 to 8 hours. However, some people may need to urinate more often during nighttime hours. And this frequent need to pee during the night may require treatment if it's causing long-term sleep deprivation. While it is more common among older adults, nocturia can occur at any age. Read on to learn more about nocturia, its causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention strategies. What causes nocturia? Nocturia can happen as a result of certain lifestyle choices or medical conditions. Medical conditions A variety of medical conditions can cause nocturia. Common causes of nocturia are a urinary tract infection (UTI) (UTI) or bladder infection. These infections cause frequent burning sensations and urgent urination throughout the day and night. Treatment requires antibiotics. Other medical conditions that can cause nocturia include: Nocturia is also common in people with organ failure, such as heart or liver failure. Pregnancy Nocturia is a fairly common symptom of pregnancy. It can develop at the beginning of pregnancy, but it also happens later, when the growing womb presses against the bladder. Medications Some medications may cause nocturia as a side effect. This is particularly true of diuretics (water pills), which are prescribed to treat high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, or any type of fluid retention. You should seek emergency medical care from a doctor if you lose the ability to urinate or if you can no longer control your urination. Lifestyle choices Urinating too much over 24 hours is called polyuria, which can be caused by excessive fluid consumption, typically more than 40 milliliters per kilogram (mL/kg) per day. As part of that, you may also have nocturia or excessive urination at night. Alcohol and caffeinated beverages are also diuretics, meaning drinking them causes your body to produce even more urine. Therefore, consuming alcohol or caffeinated beverages in excess can lead to nighttime waking and needing to urinate. Other people who have nocturia may have developed a habit of waking up during the night to urinate. How do doctors diagnose nocturia? Diagnosing the cause of nocturia can be difficult. Your doctor will need to ask a variety of questions. The doctor will also usually ask you to record what you drink and how much, along with how often you need to urinate in a 24-hour period. Questions your doctor may ask you also include: When did the nocturia start? How many times per night do you have to urinate? Are you producing less urine than you did before? Do you have accidents, or have you wet the bed? Does anything make the problem worse? Do you have any other symptoms? What medications are you taking? Do you have a family history of bladder problems or diabetes? They may also have you undergo testing such as: blood sugar test to check for diabetes other blood tests for blood counts and blood chemistry urinalysis urine culture fluid deprivation test imaging tests, such as ultrasounds or CT scans urological tests, like cystoscopy tests to check if your bladder is fully emptying when you urinate How is nocturia treated? If your nocturia is caused by a medication, taking the medication earlier in the day may help. Treatment for nocturia can sometimes include medications such as: anticholinergic drugs, which help lessen the symptoms of an overactive bladder. However, recent research has associated these drugs with an increased risk of dementia in older people. Beta-3 adrenoceptor agonists, like mirabegron (Myrbetriq), can help relax the bladder muscles and reduce symptoms of overactive bladder desmopressin (Nocdurna), which causes your kidneys to produce less urine at night However, nocturia can be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as diabetes or a UTI, that could worsen or spread if left untreated. Nocturia due to an underlying condition will usually stop when the condition is successfully treated. What can you do to prevent nocturia? There are steps you can take to lessen the effects of nocturia on your life. Reducing the amount of liquids you drink 4 to 6 hours before going to bed can help prevent you from needing to urinate at night. Avoiding drinks that contain alcohol and caffeine may also help, as can urinating before you go to bed. Some foods, such as chocolate, spicy foods, acidic foods, and artificial sweeteners, can irritate the bladder. Kegel exercises and pelvic floor physical therapy can help strengthen your pelvic muscles and improve bladder control. Pay close attention to what makes your symptoms worse so you can try to modify your habits accordingly. Some people find it helpful to keep a diary of what they drink and when.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Preventing urinary tract infections after menopause: What every woman should know
After menopause, urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be more frequent, yet most Canadian women (82 per cent in a recent survey) don't realize the two are associated. At the Sex, Gender and Women's Health Research Hub, our team's advocacy aims to increase awareness and highlight proven strategies to help prevent UTIs for women later in life. The main culprit for increased UTIs in menopausal women is the drop in estrogen levels. Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining urinary tract tissue health. As estrogen declines, the lining of the urethra — the tube through which urine flows out of the body — becomes thinner and more fragile. Also, there are fewer infection-fighting blood cells in the urinary tract, and mucosal immunity — the specialized immune defences present at the mucosal surfaces lining the urinary tract that include physical and chemical barriers, cellular receptors and antibodies — is reduced. This weakens the local immune response, making it easier for bacteria to cause infections. Additionally, changes in vaginal flora — the bacteria that naturally protect against infections — results in the urinary tract being vulnerable. Other factors can contribute to UTI risk at this stage of life, too. Women whose bladder muscles have weakened with age, or who have developed pelvic organ prolapse, can experience incomplete bladder emptying. This leads to urine retention and an increased chance of bacterial growth. Read more: Similarly, if women experience urinary incontinence, the leakage and moisture on incontinence pads or underwear can create an environment where bacteria thrive. And while sexual activity itself does not directly cause UTIs, it can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, increasing the risk of infection. Bacteria in the urine without symptoms is called asymptomatic bacteriuria. It is not a UTI and should not be treated; a UTI is only diagnosed when bacteria and symptoms are both present. The most obvious symptoms include: A new, strong, persistent urge to urinate; A burning sensation while urinating; Frequent urination in small amounts; Pelvic discomfort or pressure. In severe cases, UTIs can lead to kidney infections, so when symptoms include fever, chills and back pain, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. For women in their 80s or older, or sometimes younger women who are living with medical conditions such as dementia, urinary tract infections can manifest as behavioural changes such as confusion, withdrawal or reduced appetite. However, new onset delirium should always be investigated by a medical team rather than assumed to be a UTI. Several medical and lifestyle interventions can make a significant difference: 1. Vaginal estrogen therapy One of the most effective ways to prevent recurrent UTIs in postmenopausal women is vaginal estrogen therapy, which delivers small doses of estrogen directly to the vaginal tissues through creams, tablets or rings. Studies have shown that vaginal estrogen can restore the natural protective barrier of the urinary tract, reducing UTI risk significantly. It can be used by breast cancer survivors as it does not have the same risks associated with menopause hormone therapy (MHT). 2. Non-antibiotic prevention Methenamine hippurate (one gram orally, twice-a-day) is effective in reducing UTIs by creating an environment that prevents bacterial growth. In Canada, women need to obtain this medication from a compounding pharmacy. 3. Low-dose antibiotic Doctors may prescribe low-dose antibiotics – about half the standard dose – for several months. If sexual activity is a trigger for UTIs, antibiotics can be used episodically after sex. However, antibiotics can cause side-effects and create antibiotic-resistant bacteria. 4. Diet supplements Scientific evidence on consuming cranberry-based products to prevent UTIs is mixed. Some studies suggest that certain compounds in cranberries (proanthocyanidins, or PACs) prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder lining, while others show no benefit. If trying these products, women should choose brands with high concentrations of PACs, the active ingredient. Similarly, probiotics, especially those containing Lactobacillus strains, may help maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome, which in turn can lower UTI risk. However, research is still evolving. 5. Hygiene and lifestyle habits Though there is limited evidence, simple everyday habits may help in preventing UTIs: Staying hydrated – Drinking water helps to flush bacteria from the urinary tract. For women who drink a low volume of fluids each day (less than 1.5 litres), increasing water intake may help. Urinating regularly – Avoid holding urine for long periods and aim to void every three to four hours during the day. Urinating after sex – This helps clear bacteria introduced during intercourse. Choosing breathable underwear – Cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes reduce build up of moisture, which in turn reduces bacterial growth. Vaccines are one of the most promising developments for preventing recurrent UTIs. In one early trial, overall recurrences decreased by 75 per cent for women given an oral vaccine, with no major side-effects reported. Trials are currently under way in Canada, and researchers hope vaccines will provide a more effective and long-term solution. Any woman who is experiencing frequent UTIs — defined as two infections in six months or three in a year — in menopause should talk to their doctor or primary care provider. Together, they can determine the best preventive targeted strategies. Knowledge is power, and there is more information available today than ever before. UTIs are not an inevitable part of aging. With the right combination of medical treatments and lifestyle changes, women can reduce postmenopausal risk. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organisation bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Erin A. Brennand, University of Calgary; Jayna Holroyd-Leduc, University of Calgary, and Pauline McDonagh Hull, University of Calgary Read more: Women having surgery to treat pelvic organ prolapse don't always need a hysterectomy What are the most common symptoms of menopause? And which can hormone therapy treat? Menopause symptoms may be critical to understanding Alzheimer's disease risk in women Erin A. Brennand receives funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, the Calgary Health Foundation, and the MSI Foundation (all paid to institution). Jayna Holroyd-Leduc has received funding from CIHR and Alberta Innovates. She holds the BSF Chair in Geriatric Medicine at the University of Calgary. Pauline McDonagh Hull does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
The Independent
28-05-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Popular over-the-counter drugs have been tied to cancer
Popular over-the-counter drugs used to treat uncomfortable urinary tract infections may come with a potential cancer risk. The drug is called phenazopyridine hydrochloride and is found in many pills - both generic and name-brand - that are used to treat a urinary tract infection. Women are typically at a higher risk than men for those kinds of infections. The pill, many of which sell for less than $15, are used to help reduce pain, burning and irritation associated with the infections. They promise relief in as little as 20 minutes. Phenazopyridine hydrochloride has been used for decades and is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Now, recent studies have raised questions about its use. 'There is no need for this drug,' Rita Jew, who serves as the president of the Institute for Safe Medication Practices, told Bloomberg. 'The data available from epidemiological studies are inadequate to evaluate the relationship between human cancer and exposure specifically to phenazopyridine hydrochloride,' the report said. There are more than 8 million related visits to healthcare providers in the U.S. each year to treat a UTI, according to the American Urological Association. Many people experience repeat infections, and around 60 percent of women and 12 percent of men will have at least one UTI during their lifetimes. But, even the labels on the drugs recognize that there is risk associated with the products. 'This product contains Phenazopyridine hydrochloride, known to the State of California to cause cancer,' the AZO label says. 'Long-term administration of phenazopyridine HCl has induced neoplasia in rats (large intestine) and mice (liver). Although no association between phenazopyridine HCl and human neoplasia has been reported, adequate epidemiological studies along these lines have not been conducted,' the URISTAT Pain Relief Tablet box notes. Neoplasia is the abnormal growth of cells. It was also listed by the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Service as a hazardous substance in 2001. Bloomberg also flagged that Phenazopyridine hydrochloride has been blamed for masking serious infections, slowing breathing, upset stomach and reddish-orange urine One adverse effect, known as methaemoglobinaemia, is rare but can be life-threatening. Still, even physicians may not have heard about the ties to cancer. 'It's the first time I'm even hearing about this. I'm totally unaware,' New York-based gynecologist Steven Goldstein told Bloomberg.
Daily Mail
27-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Doctors sound alarm as over-the-counter drug taken by millions is linked to CANCER
A common medication taken by more than 100 million worldwide for urinary tract infections has been linked to cancer. Phenazopyridine, which is sold under various brand names including Azo, Pyridium, Prodium, Pyridiate, Baridium, and Uricalm, is available over the counter (OTC) in the US at lower strengths and by prescription at higher strengths. It works by numbing the lining of the urinary tract, which helps to lessen the symptoms of urinary tract infections (UTIs), which include burning, irritation, and discomfort, as well as frequent and urgent urination. But now experts are warning that phenazopyridine could cause cancer based on evidence from animal studies. In one study conducted by the NIH, it was found that dietary exposure to phenazopyridine caused tumors in two rodent species at two different tissue sites. In female mice, it caused benign and malignant liver tumors while in rats of both sexes, it caused benign or malignant colorectal tumors. The government agency noted that while the animal studies don't prove a direct link between human cancer and exposure to phenazopyridine, it is 'reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen'. Experts say these findings are troubling, especially as phenazopyridine doesn't require a prescription in the US as it does in many other parts of the world, including the UK and Canada. Some of the reported side effects of the medication, as highlighted by the Mayo Clinic, include chest tightness, dizziness, lethargy, loss of appetite and stomach pain. Meanwhile, some of the more severe adverse reactions have been known to include depression, muscle twitching, kidney failure, seizures and nose bleeds. Rita Jew, who serves as the president of the Institute for Safe Medication Practices, says that personally she would not advise taking phenazopyridine. She told Bloomberg: 'There is no need for this drug.' Remedies containing a mix of methenamine and sodium salicylate are seen as an alternative to phenazopyridine. Similarly, they help treat the pain and discomfort caused by UTIs until antibiotics can be prescribed and collected. Antibiotics are the primary cure for UTIs as they target and eliminate the bacteria causing the infection. The most common antibiotics recommended for treatment are nitrofurantoin, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, and fosfomycin. In the US, UTIs result in approximately 10.5 million office visits as well as 3 million emergency department encounters and 400,000 hospitalizations annually. While many people turn to phenazopyridine for temporary pain relief, the exact number of sales is not known as it is sold under different brand names. New York-based gynecologist Steven Goldstein, who recommends the medication to patients while they are awaiting the results of urine tests, said he was totally unaware of the cancer links. 'It's the first time I'm even hearing about this. I'm totally unaware.' he told Bloomberg. The NIH warning was published in 2021, while the National Cancer Institute study it refers to was carried out in 1978. UTIs occur when bacteria enters the urinary tract through the urethra, the tube that filters urine out of the bladder. Women are most at risk due to having a shorter urethra than men. This means bacteria has less distance to travel to reach the bladder. Roughly half of US women are expected to have at least one UTI in their lifetime compared to one in 20 men. Sex can also increase the risk by pushing bacteria toward the urethra. However, science is also beginning to point toward E coli from food as a potential cause. A 2023 study from George Washington University, for example, analyzed retail samples of chicken, turkey, and pork and then took blood and urine samples from people hospitalized with UTIs. The team found between 480,000 and 680,000 cases - about eight percent - could be caused by E coli strains found in the meat. Recent reports also suggest meat consumption is on the rise, which could explain the increase in UTIs.
BBC News
21-05-2025
- Health
- BBC News
Stoke-on-Trent MP Allison Gardner in tears over 'excruciating' chronic UTI
An MP has described the "debilitating and excruciating" experience of living with a chronic urinary tract infection (UTI).Allison Gardner, the Labour MP for Stoke-on-Trent South, made an emotional speech in a Westminster Hall debate on the condition, which she said had at one point led her to consider having her bladder through tears, Gardner called for better recognition of and treatment for chronic UTIs."I do believe that this is yet another case in point of how women's medical conditions continue to be misunderstood, under-researched and underfunded," she said. UTIs are bacterial infections which can affect the bladder, urethra or said she had frequently relied on bags of frozen peas to relieve the pain but said some women at the debate had described pouring scalding water on their legs to distract themselves."It's really unpleasant," Gardner told the BBC. "You get burning, stinging when you urinate." Gardner said while most people knew what a UTI was, severe and chronic infections made sufferers feel like they were "on fire"."There's something strange about the pain because it also gets to you mentally," she explained. "You just can't think and it becomes all-consuming."It gets to you that badly that you think you can't carry on."The MP has suffered from menopause-induced UTIs for more than a decade but said the "dipstick" test usually used to diagnose an infection was not sensitive when someone has a "raging" UTI, she said, was action taken and, even then, the antibiotics prescribed were not enough to fully clear it."So you're in this loop of infections, where eventually it becomes embedded and chronic," she added. 'Medical misogyny' Gardner herself was not diagnosed as a chronic sufferer until one point she thought she would not longer be able to work, or even have a relationship - because UTIs made sex said the lack of understanding around the condition in women was an example of medical misogyny - with male patients often prescribed longer courses of antibiotics."You would never say to a man who has erectile dysfunction: 'Well, you'll just have to give up sex.'. Yet this is what happens with women all the time," she a cocktail of medication now keeps her infections - mostly - at bay, Gardner still suffers from daily life is still affected she added as she can no longer enjoy tomatoes, grapes, wine, whisky or even baths because they might trigger an is now hoping to launch a cross-party parliamentary group to look at chronic UTIs. She is also calling on the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) to recognise them."If I can get NICE to provide guidance, that is a huge win," she said. "That would be phenomenal."A spokesperson for NICE said it had updated its guidance on prescriptions for recurrent UTIs in December."We regularly review and update our guidelines, particularly if there are any significant changes to the evidence base," they added. Follow BBC Stoke & Staffordshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.
