Humans always have a certain amount of bacteria present in their bodies. While these germs and toxins flush out from the urethra while peeing, sometimes they fail to do so. These germs can occasionally accumulate or get stuck, which leads to the development of an infection. 

If left untreated, it reaches different organs, including the kidneys. It affects both men and women, which is why doctors recommend paying special attention. Wondering how to know if you have UTI or a damaged kidney? Besides using urine test strips, there are other tests and here is everything you need to know. 

How to Know If I Have a Urinary Tract Infection?

Kidneys are essential organs in our body since they are in charge of collecting and eliminating waste materials. Be it materials or toxins, all are flushed out of the body through urine. But are you lately been experiencing some problems like painful urination or a burning sensation when peeing? Doubting that you have a urinary tract infection? 

Well, depending on the person, the symptoms could appear later or as soon as 2 hours after the kidneys get infected. When an excessive amount of bacteria builds up in any part of your urinary tract, it results in urinary tract infections. Simply put, the infection happens when germs grow and the treatment is delayed. Thankfully, there are several ways you can check if you have a UTI or kidney infection. This includes:

• Urinalysis 

In the urine testing method, urine is collected into a container at the doctor’s office or home. The sample is then sent to the lab to be examined under a microscope. Signs of an infection, like bacteria or white blood cells are identified in the process. However, since healthy people may also have germs in their urine, a urinalysis should be done depending on your symptoms.

• Blood Tests

If required, your doctor may ask you to conduct blood tests. To look for signs of infections, two tests are done. Peripheral blood smear in which a thin layer of blood is examined under a microscope to check for white blood cells. In blood culture, a sample of your blood is put in a container to promote the growth of germs. It is then tested for microorganisms to check for infections throughout 1 to 3 days. 

• Urine Culture

Another way healthcare professionals check for urinary tract infections is by conducting blood tests. A urine sample may be put in a container where the bacteria can grow. This helps identify the type of bacteria causing your infection, thereby guiding your treatment. In this method, the test results may take around 2 to 3 days. 

• Imaging Tests

Another way healthcare professionals do urine testing is through imaging tests. It is done mainly to check for abnormalities in your urinary tract or when an infection recurs. There are different types of imaging tests done, including computerized tomography scan, magnetic resonance imaging, intravenous pyelogram, ultrasound, and voiding cystourethrogram. 

Can UTI Lead to Permanent Kidney Damage?

The connection between kidney damage and urinary tract infections has existed for a very long time. It is among the most prevalent infections that affect people of all genders. Even after therapy, sometimes the infection either returns or doesn’t react to the appropriate treatment. Talking about urinary tract infections, they mainly take place in the lower urinary tract. 

It can affect any area of the urinary system, like the kidneys, bladder, ureters and urethra. Worried that it can permanently damage the kidney? Well, yes! If a urinary tract infection spreads to the kidneys, it could result in serious health repercussions. In severe cases, hospitalisation might be necessary. 

Mainly, there are 2 types of urinary tract infections- sepsis and pyelonephritis. It occurs when a virus or bacteria infects one or both kidneys by entering the urinary tract through the urethra. These germs grow in the bladder, leading to infections. Therefore, if you ever doubt, you can conduct a test at home using urine test strips. 

Best Tips to Treat Urinary Tract Infections 

The urinary system is meant to prevent germs from entering the urinary tract. Despite this, it sometimes fails to do so, leading to urinary tract infections and kidney diseases. Given the risk and complications, it is important to check for signs like white blood cells using urine test strips. Furthermore, you can also follow the best tips to treat UTI, such as:

• Keep yourself well hydrated during the day, except for excessive amounts of caffeine. Drink around 8 glasses or more of water daily as it encourages more frequent urination. As a result, this will assist the germs to leave the system before an infection develops.

• After urinating, make sure to always remember to properly wipe your back. Cleanse the area with clean water and try wiping from front to back. Good wiping prevents the bacteria in the anal area from getting into the vaginal or urethra. 

• To treat UTIs, you can rely on Vitamin C as a potential medication. It makes the urine more acidic, thereby helping kill the infection-causing germs. Try eating foods high in vitamin C, such as kiwi, oranges, grapefruit etc. 

• If you already have a urinary tract infection, avoid using unlubricated or spermicide-treated condoms since they promote bacterial growth. A wise decision would be to consult with a medical expert or your healthcare professional. 

Don’t Put Yourself at Risk 

At MedGuard, we are the leading supplier of medical supplies and equipment that will help you detect UTIs. From wireless monitor kits and test strips and test strips to containers, we have everything you need. We cater to all industrial needs such as doctors, nursing homes, hospitals, clinics and others. 

Our products are of premium quality and undergo thorough tests to ensure you achieve accurate results. Moreover, you can order in your desired quantities since we keep ourselves well-stocked. For more personalized guidance or queries, you can reach out to our customer support anytime without hesitation.

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