Let’s discuss chronic urinary tract infections. UTIs are very common bacterial infections affecting people across all age groups and genders, with a higher prevalence in women, particularly during midlife and post-menopause. Similar to recurrent vaginal infections, the underlying causes of recurrent and chronic UTIs are not well understood.
While uncomplicated UTIs can often be easily treated with antibiotics, long-term use without addressing the core issue can lead to several problems, including increased antibiotic resistance and the depletion of beneficial bacteria.
Chronic, relapsing, and embedded UTIs present with complex clinical features. Uropathogens such as E. coli and Enterococcus faecalis are known to invade host cells, forming intracellular communities that can evade the immune system. They can also create sticky biofilms, contributing to antibiotic resistance.
Factors like mast cells, histamine, dietary irritants, and inflammation can also worsen UTI symptoms.
It’s also important to consider the vagina as a potential reservoir for pathogenic microbes that can cause UTIs and disrupt the bladder’s microbial balance. Testing the vaginal microbiome can often provide valuable insights for treatment.
Understanding the prevalence of UTIs underscores the importance of microbiome support, vaginal health strategies, and non-antibiotic approaches to prevention.
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