Common Types of Urinary Diseases

The urinary system is important for filtering wastes and regulating fluids. The kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra are all part of the urinary system, which maintains the body's physiology. However, just like any other system, it can develop problems that can be painful and result in serious medical conditions, such as stones, bladder disorders, or infections. Various urinary tract infection types develop due to poor hygiene or any underlying medical issues. They affect around 404.61 million people across the globe. Let’s learn about five of the most common urinary diseases, their types, causes, signs, and available treatment.

Most Common Urinary Diseases and Disorders

Functions of the urinary system may be compromised by kidney or bladder diseases. The following are some of the most common urinary diseases:

1. Urinary tract infection (UTI)

A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when germs (called bacteria) enter the urinary tract and produce an infection. Most UTIs are infections of the bladder. Most common bladder problems are usually not dangerous if treated immediately. However, if you do not treat a bladder infection, it may spread to your kidneys. A kidney infection is severe and might result in lifelong damage.

Types of Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections can be divided into three distinct types. The bacteria or germs can affect different regions of the tract and result in different urinary tract infection types, which are as follows:

• Urethritis: The infection known as urethritis affects the urethra, which is the hollow tube that empties the bladder and sends urine outside the body.
• Cystitis: Cystitis is caused by a bacterial infection. This is the most common bladder infection that frequently spreads from the urethra.
• Pyelonephritis: Pyelonephritis is a kidney infection caused by an untreated lower urinary tract infection or a blockage. When the urinary tract is obstructed, urine can flow backward into the ureters and kidneys, leading to infection.

Symptoms of a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

When you have an infection related to the urinary tract, you may experience one or a combination of the symptoms mentioned below: 

• Pain or burning during urination,
• Urge to urinate frequently, yet only pass little volumes of urine,
• Pain in the lower stomach,
• Urine that appears hazy or pink or crimson or smells unpleasant.

When the UI reaches the kidney, you may experience certain distinct symptoms such as:

• Pain in the flank, which is felt on one or both sides of the back, right below the rib cage and above the waist.
• Fever and chills.
• Nausea and vomiting.

Common Causes of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

The most prevalent cause of a UTI is bacterial infection. Bacteria enter the urinary tract via the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder. If your body's natural defenses fail to keep these bacteria at a distance, the infection can progress to a more serious stage. 

In women, UTIs can be bladder or urethral infections. E. coli bacteria primarily cause bladder infections, whereas urethral infections occur when bacteria travel from the anus to the urethra.

Also Read: Home remedies for Urinary Tract Infections in males

UTI Bacteria Types

Bacteria that enter the urinary tract are the primary cause of UTIs. Escherichia coli (E. coli), a bacteria found in the digestive tract, is the most prevalent cause of UTIs. Other bacterial UTI types are:

• Staphylococcus saprophyticus: This bacteria is frequently found in young women.
• Klebsiella pneumoniae: It is known to cause hospital-acquired diseases.
• Proteus mirabilis: Known to cause complex UTIs.
• Enterococcus faecalis: It is commonly found in healthcare settings.

As each type of bacteria in urinary tract infections has a particular role to play, knowing them all can aid in the proper diagnosis and treatment of UTI.

2. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

BPH is a condition in which the prostate is enlarged. BPH is particularly common in older men. It is not directly related to prostate cancer.

The pressure exerted by a bigger prostate on the urethra, a small tube that transfers urine from the bladder to the outside of the body, causes BPH symptoms.

Men who have BPH may feel the need to urinate frequently. When they do urinate, they may have a faint stream of urine and the sensation that their bladder is not completely emptied. Your doctor may decide just to monitor this problem or give drugs like alpha-blockers for treatment. Severe cases are usually treatable with surgery.

3. Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is one of the most common bladder infection types that refers to a loss of bladder control. It causes the undesired flow of urine. Although this medical condition might be difficult and uncomfortable, it is not uncommon. According to the American Urological Association Foundation, about 15 million people in the United States suffer with incontinence.

Several factors might cause incontinence. Some of the most common causes are:

• Diabetes,
• Pregnancy or childbirth,
• Overactive bladder,
• Enlarged prostate,
• Weak bladder muscles,
• Weak sphincter muscles (muscles that support the urethra),
• Urinary tract infections,
• Disorders like Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis,
• Injury to the spinal cord,
• Severe constipation.

In certain circumstances, lifestyle changes such as limiting fluid intake may be sufficient to address the issue. If these treatments are ineffective, your doctor may recommend surgery to address the underlying cause.

4. Kidney and Ureteral Stones

When urine contains crystals and tiny particles surround and gather on top of them, kidney stones may form. Ureteral stones are those that pass from the kidney to the ureter (the tubes that transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder).

These stones can restrict urine flow and cause significant pain. Many people eliminate tiny stones from their bodies without medical assistance, but larger stones might cause blockages, which is problematic.

In some cases, medical or surgical techniques may be required to remove big stones. One of the most often utilised procedures is extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). This process uses sound waves to split stones into tiny pieces that can more easily exit the body.

Other Common Urological Conditions

At times, urinary diseases can result in severe complications, which are more commonly associated with the following conditions:

• Prostate Cancer,
• Bladder Cancer,
• Bladder Prolapse,
• Hematuria (blood in the urine),
• Erectile Dysfunction (ED),
• Interstitial cystitis (also known as painful bladder syndrome),
• Overactive Bladder, 
• Prostatitis, which is swelling of the prostate gland.

Manage UTIs Well with Expert Advice!

Every individual is unique, and not all urinary problems are serious. Different types of UTI infections can be treated with antibiotics when caught early. Thus, you should schedule periodic checkups and look for signs of urinary disease or problems. Make sure to notify your doctor about all of the symptoms. 

Consult a urologist at Apollo Spectra. After diagnosing the symptoms of urinary tract infections, our expert urologist will make a comprehensive and personalised treatment plan. So, schedule a consultation today!