Experiencing a urinary tract infection (UTI) can be quite uncomfortable, with symptoms like a stinging sensation when urinating, cramping in the lower belly, and a constant urge to pee. While gut health issues like diarrhea may not be a common UTI symptom, they can sometimes occur. The connection lies in the fact that the bladder and bowel are both controlled by the same network of nerves, meaning issues in one area may affect the other.
According to Dr. Marisa M. Clifton, a urologist at Johns Hopkins Medicine, while local UTIs typically do not cause diarrhea, in rare cases, significant infections can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms. Other common signs of a UTI include cloudy or bloody urine, a low-grade fever, pain while urinating, abdominal pressure, and a frequent need to pee.
If left untreated, a UTI can progress to complications like kidney infections, which can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, fever, and severe abdominal pain. In some cases, UTIs can lead to serious issues like kidney damage or sepsis, especially in vulnerable populations.
On the other hand, while experiencing diarrhea may not directly cause a UTI, improper hygiene practices like wiping from back to front can potentially increase the risk of urinary tract infections. The use of harsh soaps or douching to clean the genital area during diarrhea episodes can also disrupt the healthy bacteria balance and lead to UTIs.
Furthermore, diarrhea can be a side effect of UTI medications like antibiotics, which can disrupt the healthy gut flora and increase the risk of conditions like C. diff infections. To manage UTI-related diarrhea, lifestyle changes like staying hydrated, taking probiotics, and potentially switching antibiotics may help alleviate symptoms.
To prevent UTIs that may lead to diarrhea, maintaining good hygiene practices, staying hydrated, and avoiding holding in urine for too long are key. By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of developing a UTI and experiencing associated symptoms like diarrhea.
