These areas are shown in the diagram below. Most urinary tract infections are caused by the E. coli bacteria. This bacteria is normally found in the human gastro-intestinal tract. As a result, bacteria have a shorter distance to travel in order to enter the female urethra and move up into the bladder. Urinary tract infections can, however, also occur in males.
Men are more likely to get a urinary tract infection if they have an enlarged prostate gland.
When the prostate gland is enlarged, it can prevent the free flow of urine out of the bladder and the urine is then more likely to become infected. People who have diabetes are also more likely to get urinary tract infections because they tend to have sugar in their urine and this provides a good environment for bacteria to grow. Kidney infection can cause damage to the kidneys and may cause other serious problems if not treated promptly and thoroughly. Always take the medication that your doctor prescribes for a urinary tract or kidney infection for the full number of days that your doctor has prescribed. Even if you are feeling better before the medication is finished, you should take the full course of medication.