Urinary tract infection, commonly called UTI, occurs when one or many parts of the urinary system, including the bladder, kidneys, uterus, and urethra, get infected with bacteria. UTIs are common in infants, but can also teenage boys. However, compared to girls, boys are less likely to develop UTI. Some common symptoms of a UTI are pain in the belly and bladder area, burning or stinging sensation while urinating, foul smelling urine, and increased urge to urinate. Want to know what causes UTI’s in teenage boys? Go through the following piece of read to know about the Causes of Urinary Tract Infection in Teenage Boys.
Causes Of Urinary Tract Infection In Teenage Boys
The common causes of urinary tract infection in teenage boys are:
E. Coli. One of the most common causes of UTIs is the bacteria called E. coli. These bacteria are present in the intestine and can be passed out through stools. In case of boys, during wiping post a bowel movement the fecal matter may move towards the penis. When this happens, the bacteria present in the stool can infiltrate the lower urinary tract through the head of the penis resulting in an infection. However, UTI caused by E. coli is more common in girls because of the shape of their genitals. The bacteria E. Coli is the commonest cause of urinary tract infection in teenage boys.
Anatomical Abnormalities. The urine can get blocked due to protrusion in the urinary tract or abnormally formed kidney. When urine stays in the urinary tract, the bacteria can overproduce and cause urinary tract infection in teenage boys.
Urine Reflux. Urine reflux or vesicoureteral reflux is a congenital condition caused due to abnormal functioning of the urinary system. Urine reflux occurs when urine flows back from the bladder towards the kidneys. Around 30% to 50% of children suffering from UTI are found to have this condition. School-aged children most often get UTIs due to urine reflux conditions and other structural abnormalities. Urine reflux may also be responsible for urinary tract infection in teenage boys.
Inadequate Hygiene. Not cleaning the penis thoroughly, especially when the individual has an uncircumcised penis can cause accumulation of bacteria on the penile head through which they can enter the body and cause infection. Not rinsing soap properly off the penis can also trigger irritation that causes inflammation of the urinary tract and UTI. Not maintaining cleanliness and hygiene also causes urinary tract infection in teenage boys.
Insufficient Voiding. Whether intentional or due to a condition, a teenage boy who does not completely empty his bladder can end up having a UTI. Some nervous system or brain illnesses, like those affecting the spinal cord, can make it more difficult for teenage boys to fully empty their bladder. Holding urine for prolonged periods of time or making infrequent trips to the bathroom can also lead to a UTI as bacteria can accumulate inside the tissues of the urinary tract.
Conclusion
UTIs are easy to treat if diagnosed early. Undiagnosed or untreated UTIs can result in kidney damage. UTIs in teenage boys can be prevented by wearing clean cotton under wears, maintaining good hygiene and avoiding using irritants like bubble baths and soaps.
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