Page 103 - Biology_Form_3

Biology for Secondary Schools

they have a shorter urethral pathway than tract. This prevents the normal flow of urine
men. Females also have urethra close to and causes urine to be retained in the bladder
their vagina and anus. Sexually transmitted or kidneys. This condition can be caused
infections such as gonorrhoea, herpes, by sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
Chlamydia and mycoplasma may also result such as syphilis and gonorrhoea. It can be
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into urethritis. controlled through prevention against STDs

Symptoms of UTI includes smelling urine, and seeking medical assistance in case of
frequent and burning urination, clouded symptoms of the diseases.
colour urine, inability to empty bladder (f) Diabetes insipidus
completely, fatigue, fever, nausea, lower
back pains and leg cramps. Untreated This is excessive production of very
UTI can lead to chronic kidney infections. dilute urine. It is caused by deficiency of
Another effect of UTI in pregnant women vasopressin hormone which is released by
is premature birth or delivering an infant the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland.
with low birth weight. Men may experience Vasopressin or antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
urethral narrowing. facilitates the reabsorption of water by the
distal convoluted tubule and collecting
Preventive measures against UTI include duct of the nephrone. Hence, lack of this
proper cleaning of the area around anus hormone causes accumulation of water in
after bowel movement by wiping from the renal fluid causing excessive water to
the front to the back followed by cleaning be lost through urine.
with clean water. This is to ensure that
faeces are always moving away from the This can be prevented through regular
urethra. It is also advised not to wear tight physical exercise and healthy eating.
fitting pants. Drinking enough water to Diabetic insipidus patients are advised to
keep the body hydrated helps to prevent go to a health facility for medical advice
UTI. Patients should seek medical advice and proper treatment.
from a recognized health centre. If barrier
contraceptive such as intra uterine device (g) Gout
are used, they must be changed regularly. This is another disorder of the excretory
However, antibiotic-resistant bacteria have system. It is caused by abnormally high
become a major challenge in UTI treatment. concentrations of uric acid in the blood
The use of probiotics such as yogurt and plasma. Excessive quantities of uric acid
cranberry extracts has been found to help are deposited in joints and tissues. This
prevent recurrent infections. results in inflammation and pain. Toe
joints are the most commonly affected.
(e) Urinary tract obstruction It may also affect hands and other joints.
This is a condition caused by the blockage Life style that increases risk of developing
or constriction of any point in the urinary gout includes taking excess alcohol and

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