6 Conditions That Increase UTIs in Men
Certain health conditions can make men more likely to develop urinary tract infections (UTIs). These conditions include an enlarged prostate, kidney stones, diabetes, weakened immune system, urinary tract abnormalities, and use of urinary catheters. Addressing these factors with the help of a healthcare professional can lower the risk of recurrent UTIs in men.
Most people think of urinary tract infections (UTIs) as a women’s health issue, but men can get them, too. While UTIs are less common in men, certain health conditions make them much more likely. In fact, approximately 12% of men will be affected by a UTI.1 Understanding these risk factors can help you protect your urinary health and know when to see a doctor.
Let’s take a closer look at six medical conditions that increase the risk of UTIs in men.
1. Enlarged Prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)
As men age, the prostate gland often grows larger. This condition is known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). When the prostate enlarges, it can press against the urethra and block the normal flow of urine. This makes it harder for the bladder to empty completely.
Urine that sits in the bladder provides a perfect environment for bacteria to multiply. As a result, men with BPH are more likely to develop a UTI. Symptoms can include a weak urine stream, trouble starting or stopping urination, and feeling like you can’t fully empty your bladder.
2. Kidney Stones
Sometimes, kidney stones travel down into the bladder or urethra, causing blockages. When urine cannot flow freely, bacteria may become trapped and start to grow.
Not only can kidney stones increase the risk of infection, but a UTI can also make passing a stone much more painful. If you have a history of kidney stones and notice symptoms like burning with urination or cloudy urine, it’s important to check for infection.
3. Diabetes
Diabetes affects many organs and systems, including the urinary tract. High blood sugar levels can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections, including those caused by bacteria in the urinary tract.
Additionally, diabetes can cause nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy), which may make it harder to fully empty the bladder. The combination of high blood sugar and urine that stays in the bladder too long gives bacteria more chances to grow.2
4. Weakened Immune System
A healthy immune system helps fight off infections throughout your body. But certain conditions can weaken your immune defenses. Examples include HIV/AIDS, cancer treatments (like chemotherapy), or medicines used to prevent organ rejection after a transplant.
When your immune system is not working at full strength, your body has a harder time clearing away bacteria that enter the urinary tract. This makes you more vulnerable to frequent or severe UTIs.
5. Urinary Tract Abnormalities
Some men are born with urinary tract abnormalities, while others develop them over time. Examples include urethral strictures (narrowing of the urethra), bladder diverticula (pouches in the bladder wall), or other structural problems.
These abnormalities can interfere with the flow of urine, causing it to back up or become trapped. Stagnant urine gives bacteria a better chance to grow and multiply, leading to repeated infections.
6. Use of Urinary Catheters
A urinary catheter is a thin tube inserted into the bladder to drain urine. Catheters are often used after surgery or in men who have trouble emptying their bladders on their own.
While catheters are necessary in some situations, they can also introduce bacteria directly into the urinary tract. The longer a catheter remains in place, the higher the risk of infection. Men with chronic catheter use are at especially high risk for UTIs and should be monitored closely by their healthcare team.3
When to See a Doctor
UTIs in men can sometimes signal a more serious underlying problem, especially if they happen often. If you notice symptoms like pain or burning with urination, frequent urge to urinate, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, or fever, you should contact your healthcare provider. Early treatment can help prevent complications.
Prevention Tips
While not all UTIs are preventable, you can reduce your risk by:
- Drinking plenty of water
- Emptying your bladder regularly
- Practicing good personal hygiene
- Managing chronic health conditions, like diabetes or prostate problems
- Avoiding unnecessary catheter use
FAQs
1. Can a UTI go away on its own in men?
UTIs in men rarely clear up without treatment and can lead to serious complications. Always see a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and antibiotics.
2. Are older men at greater risk for UTIs?
Yes. The risk increases with age, especially due to prostate enlargement and other age-related health problems.
3. What are the common symptoms of a UTI in men?
Symptoms include burning or pain during urination, frequent urge to urinate, cloudy or bloody urine, lower abdominal pain, and sometimes fever.
4. How is a UTI diagnosed in men?
Diagnosis usually involves a urine test to detect bacteria and sometimes additional tests to look for underlying causes.
5. How are UTIs in men treated?
Most UTIs require prescription antibiotics. The doctor may also treat any underlying conditions that contribute to the infection. Always complete the full course of antibiotics, even if you feel better.
