Diseases & Conditions

How did I get a urinary tract infection?

Q.I am 68 years old, and recently I was diagnosed with my first urinary tract infection. Why did this happen, and could I have prevented it?

If the bladder does not empty completely, bacteria normally flushed out with the urine might gain a foothold and lead to infection. A man whose bladder is not emptying properly may develop symptoms such as frequent urination, urinary urgency, or the need to return to the bathroom just a few minutes after urinating. A urinary tract infection will worsen those symptoms and make urination painful.

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