In men aged under 50, because of male physiology, urine infections are quite rare. However, as men age, particularly when they pass the age of 50 urinary tract infections become more common. Approximately 3% of men in their 60s and as many as 10% of men in their 80s, will suffer a urine infection. (As mentioned urine infections in men is much less common than in women because, compared to men, their urethra is shorter and is located nearer the anus allowing for easier contamination by faecal matter).
Then the question arises why then do some men get urine infections? Often times infection occurs for no apparent or obvious reason. A doctor may check and find there is no problem with the bladder, kidneys, prostate gland or immune system deficiency that can be identified. In some cases, however, there may well be an underlying problem than can increase the risk of developing a urine infection like prostate gland enlargement. If you are concerned about urine infections see your doctor or arrange for a urine infection test (UTI test).
As men age their prostate gland tends to enlarge due to a condition known as benign prostate hyperplasia BPH. An enlarged prostate gland may prevent the bladder from emptying properly. A residual quantity of urine may then pool in the bladder. Bacteria are more likely to multiply in a stagnant pool of urine and cause a urinary tract infection . If you have concerns about the health of your prostate see your doctor who may arrange for a PSA test. A PSA test looks for elevated levels of prostate specific antigen in your blood which can a sign that there is something wrong with your prostate gland.
Some kidney or bladder conditions can also lead to an increased likelihood of infections. Conditions like kidney stones, for example, or other conditions that cause urine to pool in the bladder and not be passed through urination. These include having a urinary catheter.
If you have a poor immune system this increases the risk of having any infection, including a UTI’s – If you have AIDS or are taking chemotherapy treatment.