Why is E-coli the most common cause of Urinary Tract Infections?

E.coli bacteria normally reside in the gut without causing the body any harm, but what happens if the bacteria travel to the bladder? If the E.coli bacteria enter into the urinary tract and the bladder through the urinary opening, it can cause a UTI or urinary tract infection. Any part of the urinary system can get affected by E.coli, and a urinary tract infection can show up anytime unexpectedly.

Where can E.coli start developing?

The E.coli is mostly found in the gut as discussed earlier but if it travels to the urinary system it can be found in:

1. Kidneys: The two bean-shaped kidneys are responsible for making urine in the body. The urine contains waste products and toxins that need to be expelled, or else the body starts malfunctioning. Moreover, the kidneys are also responsible for the filtration of blood. But if the kidneys get infected by E.coli it can cause infection.

2. Bladder: The bladder stores urine. The growth of E.coli bacteria causes infection in the bladder.

3. The Ureters: The UTI can also start in the ureters. The ureters are the tubes responsible for transporting urine from the kidneys to the urinary bladder. The E-coli can develop anywhere in the ureters, and this may be the leading cause of urinary tract infection in the body.

The E.coli bacteria are always present in the gut, and through the feces, they get eliminated from the body. But, sometimes, the bacteria are accidentally transported to the urinary region through the fecal matter and start causing pain and irritation.

Why do E.coli cause urinary tract infections frequently?

The fact is that most of the time, urinary tract infections reoccur often. It is not a one-time affair because the stubborn microbes start to grow in the warm dark urinary tract. Escherichia coli or E.coli is the most common reason for UTI in people. There is direct exposure of the feces excreted from the anal region to the urethra. The E-coli bacteria live in the bowel, and they can travel via dirty unwashed E-coli microbe-laden hands to the urinary tract. These organisms enter the urinary tract causing infection, irritation, and pain while urinating.

What are the different ways E.coli spreads into the urinary tract?

1) Improper hygiene: Improper hygiene after defecating can cause the spread of E.coli very fast. Wiping the anus from the back towards the front near the urethra transports the dangerous E.coli strain into the urinary tract. Spreading of E.coli infections from public toilets and unhygienic conditions is very common.

2) Birth control: Spermicides, spermicidal condoms, diaphragms, and other contraceptives for birth control, are used in the urinary tract. Because of these chemicals, the bacteria cannot thrive. These artificial substances kill the protective and healthy bacteria residing in the body. The bacteria responsible for protecting against harmful bacteria like E.coli get eradicated, and there is no shield against the attack of E-coli. There are great chances of developing a Urinary tract infection in such a case.

3) Pregnancy: Pregnancy causes an upheaval in hormonal secretions that disturb protective bacteria. Also, the growing fetus exerts pressure on the bladder constantly. This pressure and weight pressing against the bladder gives the E.coli entry into the body from the urethra.

4) Sex: Sometimes, sexual postures can move the feces infected with E.coli from the anal region into the urinary tract and cause severe UTIs.

The urine in our body contains chemicals, salt, water, toxins, and other wastes. But urine is not sterile because the urinary tract is home to many bacteria. But these are healthy microbes that keep the urinary tract free from diseases. Trouble arises when E.coli enters the track by mistake. The urinary tract does not host E.coli, and it gains entry through the stool.

Does E.coli affect women more than men, why?

People of any age group can fall prey to Urinary tract infection, and women are more affected by this than men. This disparity occurs because of the proximity of the anus and urethra. But, there are also other fungi, bacteria, and viruses also that can cause UTI. A urine culture analysis will show the bacteria's growth and the organism's sensitivity causing the urinary tract infection. The short distance of the anus and urethra in women makes the bacteria travel easily into the woman’s body.

Indications you may have an E.coli infection in the urinary system:

You need to keep your eyes open and get yourself checked for E.coli infection, in case of
1. Painful urination or little urine output, or discolored urine. Normally, it is the uropathogenic E.coli that causes infection in the urinary system.

2. Burning Sensation: It is not easy to tolerate pelvic pain or irritation in the lower abdomen while urinating. Bladder fullness and burning sensation with foul smell in the urine requires instant attention.

3. Burning micturition: Bacteria The bacteria infect the urinary tract and it causes bladder infection leading to burning micturition or dysuria. Sexually transmitted diseases, sexually transmitted infections, or some non-infectious conditions can cause this condition.

So, if you feel burning, discomfort, pain, or irritation while urinating, get yourself checked immediately for E.coli Urinary tract infection.

If you neglect these signs, it may cause permanent damage to the kidneys, so go for a urinalysis and urine culture at the earliest!