What is Urethritis?
Definition Urethritis is an inflammation of the urethra that is usually caused by an infection. Description The urethra is the canal that moves urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. When this canal becomes infected, inflammation occurs due to the accumulation of white blood cells in the area. When this occurs, it is called urethritis. Besides the urethra, the urinary tract consists of the bladder, ureters, and kidneys. Inflammation can move up the urethra, causing cystitis in the bladder, or nephritis in the kidneys. Collectively, these inflammations are called urinary tract infections or UTIs. Urinary tract infections are much more common in women than in men, probably due to anatomy. Infections are especially more common in older women, due to bladder problems. Causes and symptoms Uncomplicated urethritis usually results from infection by the bacteria Escherichia coli, commonly found in the bowel. Complicated urethritis can occur when other problems exist, such as kidney
Urethritis is a medical condition characterized by an inflammation of the urethra, which is a tube in the male body that passes urine and reproductive fluids from the inside to the outside of the body. It is also found in the female body, though it only serves to pass urine in this capacity. A person may develop urethritis in a number of ways. Bacterial and viral infections are common causes, with those associated with sexually transmitted diseases and urinary tract infections being the typical cause. Examples of sexually transmitted diseases that may lead to urethritis include cytomeglovirus and herpes. In some cases, urethritis may also be caused by injury or by a sensitivity to the chemicals found in certain spermicides or contraceptive creams, jellies, and foams. Individuals with multiple sexual partners are more likely to develop urethritis. Failure to wear a condom while having sex also puts an individual at a higher risk. While males between 20 and 35 years of age are most commo
