Urinary Tract Infection in Men: Treatment and Prevention
Did you know as per the research around 12% of men will experience a UTI at some point in their lives. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are often thought to be associated with women, but men can also be affected. Although less common, a UTI in men can cause a serious discomfort and lead to complications if left untreated.
Understanding what causes them, how they present, and the best ways to manage and prevent them is essential for long-term health.
In this blog, we will explore UTI in men, the available treatment options, prevention strategies, and why consulting a urologist is crucial for an effective care.
What Is UTI in Men?
The urinary tract comprises of the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra.
A urinary tract infection happens when strains of harmful bacteria multiply in any of these areas.
While UTIs are much more common in women, men can get UTIs too.
The likelihood increases with age, particularly in those over 50, due to prostate issues or other underlying conditions.
Doctors classify UTIs into two main types:
- Lower tract infections: Infections affecting the bladder (cystitis), urethra (urethritis), or prostate (prostatitis).
- Upper tract infections: Infections that spread to the kidneys (pyelonephritis) or ureters, which can be more serious.
Symptoms of UTI in Men
The symptoms of a UTI in men may vary depending on whether it is a lower or upper tract infection. Common signs include:
- A frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Burning or pain during urination
- Pain or pressure in the lower abdomen
- Cloudy, foul-smelling, or bloody urine
- Fever, chills, or nausea (in more severe cases)
- Pain in the back or sides (if the kidneys are affected)
Sometimes, men may not experience obvious symptoms, which makes medical evaluation even more important if any unusual urinary changes occur.
What Causes UTIs in Men?
The most common factors include:
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea, especially in younger men under 50
- Prostate disorders like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which obstructs urine flow and increases infection risk
- Prostatitis, an inflammation of the prostate gland
- Kidney stones, which block normal urine flow and promote bacterial growth
- Catheter use, as catheters can introduce bacteria into the bladder
- Diabetes and conditions affecting immunity, making it harder to fight infections
- Dehydration, leading to concentrated urine and bacterial growth
- Recent urological procedures, which may introduce bacteria into the urinary tract
Understanding why do men get UTIs is crucial in both treatment and prevention.
The 2mm Kidney Stone: A fleeting visitor?
A 2mm kidney stone is generally considered very small. In most cases, such a tiny stone will pass through the urinary tract without causing any noticeable symptoms. Increased water intake is usually the only recommended course of action. However, even a 2mm stone can cause issues if it gets lodged in a narrow part of the ureter.
Diagnosing UTI in Men
Diagnosis includes a thorough medical history, physical examination, and tests such as:
- Urine analysis and culture to confirm infection and identify bacteria
- Prostate examination if an enlarged prostate is suspected
- Imaging tests like ultrasound or X-ray for recurrent or severe infections
Prompt and accurate diagnosis ensures that the correct treatment is initiated without delay.
Male UTI Treatment
So, how to treat a UTI in men? The mainstay of male UTI treatment is antibiotics. The specific type and duration depend on whether the infection is lower or upper tract.
- Lower urinary tract infections usually require a week of oral antibiotics.
- Upper tract infections may need up to two weeks of stronger antibiotics and, in some cases, intravenous therapy.
In addition to prescribed medications, supportive measures include:
- Drinking plenty of water to flush out bacteria
- Avoiding irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods
- Using over-the-counter pain relief if needed
- Applying a heating pad for abdominal discomfort
While home remedies may ease discomfort, antibiotics are the only cure for UTIs in men.
Recurrent UTI in Men
A recurrent UTI in men is defined as having multiple infections within a year. Recurrent infections are often linked to:
- Chronic prostatitis
- Kidney stones
- Structural abnormalities in the urinary tract
- Uncontrolled diabetes or other chronic illnesses
Management of recurrent infections requires specialist evaluation. Experienced urologists employ advanced diagnostic tools and targeted treatments to address the root causes, helping patients prevent repeated infections.
UTI Complications in Men
If untreated, a simple UTI can escalate into serious complications, such as:
- Kidney infections (pyelonephritis)
- Sepsis (infection spreading to the bloodstream)
- Chronic kidney disease in rare cases
This highlights the importance of not ignoring even mild urinary symptoms.
How to Prevent UTI in Men
While not every infection can be avoided, knowing how to prevent UTI in men is essential. Key measures include:
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water to flush the bacteria out.
- Maintain good hygiene: Clean the genital area regularly.
- Urinate when needed: Avoid holding urine for long periods.
- Manage prostate health: Early treatment of prostate issues lowers infection risk.
- Safe sexual practices: Using condoms helps prevent STIs that may trigger UTIs.
- Wear loose cotton undergarment: This helps reduce bacterial growth.
These strategies are simple yet effective in reducing infection recurrence.
Why Choose Dr Muthana Alrawi for Male UTI Treatment in Dubai?
When it comes to managing complex urinary issues, including UTI in men, seeking expert care is vital.
Here’s why patients trust Dr Muthana Alrawi:
- Specialist expertise: Over 20 years of global experience in urology and male health.
- Advanced diagnostics: Skilled in utilizing advanced treatment techniques.
- Comprehensive care: Expertise across prostate health, kidney stones, and make fertility concerns.
- Minimally invasive treatments: Proficiency in laparoscopic and robotic urological surgery.
- Trusted by patients: Recognised globally for compassionate, minimally invasive patient-centric care.
Protecting Men’s Urinary Health
Although less frequent than in women, UTIs in men can be serious if left untreated. Recognising the signs, understanding what causes UTI in men, and knowing how to treat a UTI in men are essential steps toward recovery and prevention.
If you are struggling with urinary infections or related complications, consulting a leading urologist like Dr Muthana Alrawi ensures access to world-class expertise and personalised treatment in Dubai.
Your urinary health deserves attention and with the right care, you can prevent recurrence and safeguard long-term wellbeing.
FAQs on UTI in Men
Yes, although less common than in women, men can develop UTIs, particularly after the age of 50.
Bacteria usually enter through the urethra and spread upwards. Contributing factors include prostate problems, kidney stones, or catheter use.
Men may develop UTIs due to prostate problems, kidney stones, catheter use, or reduced immunity.
A course of prescribed antibiotics is essential. Drinking water and practising good hygiene can support recovery.
No, UTIs are not directly contagious. However, sexually transmitted infections that mimic UTIs can spread through sexual contact.
Staying hydrated, practising good hygiene, and managing prostate health are effective ways to prevent UTIs in men.
While fluids and pain relief may ease symptoms quickly, antibiotics are required to cure the infection. It’s not usually possible to completely resolve a UTI within 24 hours without medical treatment.