Osmosis video - Urinary system: Infections and stones

The urinary system is a complex system that is responsible for the production, storage, and elimination of urine. It includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Two common problems that can affect the urinary system are infections and stones.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) infections that affect any part of the urinary system. They are more common in women than men and can occur at any age. UTIs are often caused by a variety of bacteria, including E. coli, Klebsiella, Proteus, and Pseudomonas. Symptoms of UTIs include frequent urination, painful urination, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, and lower abdominal pain.

Kidney stones are solid masses made of crystalized minerals and salts that can form in the urinary system. They can cause intense pain, especially if they become lodged in the urinary tract and block urine flow. The risk factors for both urinary infections and stones can overlap and include dehydration, urinary tract abnormalities, and certain diseases like diabetes. UTIs are usually treated with antibiotics, whereas small stones may be passed naturally and larger stones may require surgery to be removed.