The presence of bacteria in urine is called bacteriuria. This can be classified as symptomatic or asymptomatic. Symptomatic bacteriuria means that there is an infection present, while asymptomatic bacteriuria means that bacteria are present in the urine but there are no signs or symptoms of an infection.
In a healthy individual, the urine is typically sterile, meaning there are no bacteria present. However, bacteria can enter the urinary tract through the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. Once bacteria enter the bladder, they can multiply and cause an infection.
The most common cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs) is Escherichia coli (E. coli), a type of bacteria that normally lives in the gut. Other bacteria that can cause UTIs include Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Proteus mirabilis.
It is important to note that not all bacteria in urine indicate an infection. Sometimes, bacteria can be present in urine without causing any symptoms. This is known as asymptomatic bacteriuria. It is usually not treated unless it is in pregnant women, people with kidney problems, or those preparing for certain surgical procedures.
Examples of bacteria in urine:
- E. coli
- Staphylococcus saprophyticus
- Klebsiella pneumoniae
- Proteus mirabilis
