All about urinary tract infections: Causes, symptoms and preventive strategies

Urinary tract infections: Inadequate drying of genital areas after bathing or using the restroom can further facilitate bacterial growth and UTI development. (Image: Canva)

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common bacterial infections that affect the urinary system, predominantly seen in women. UTIs occur when bacteria, often Escherichia coli from the digestive tract, enter the urinary tract and multiply, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Symptoms can range from a frequent urge to urinate and burning sensations to more severe complications if left untreated. Factors like humidity, hygiene practices, and lifestyle choices can increase the risk of UTIs, particularly during seasons like the rainy period. Understanding preventive measures and prompt treatment is crucial in managing and reducing the incidence of UTIs.

Factors contributing to increased UTIs in the rainy season include several aspects, as explained by Dr Hemant Deshpande, HOD obstetrics gynaecology at DPU super specialty hospital, Pimpri, Pune.

Humidity and dampness: The humid and damp environment provides optimal conditions for bacteria to thrive. Moist areas and stagnant water due to rain or humidity create a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of UTIs.

Skin irritation and barrier disruption: Prolonged exposure to humidity can irritate the skin around the genital area, compromising its natural barrier. This makes it easier for bacteria to cause infection.

Hygiene challenges: Limited access to clean water during the rainy season can impact personal hygiene practices. Inadequate drying of genital areas after bathing or using the restroom can further facilitate bacterial growth and UTI development.

Medical conditions and lifestyle factors: Factors such as a short urethra, diabetes, and urinary calculi increase susceptibility to UTIs. Lifestyle habits like alcohol consumption, spicy foods, and caffeine can irritate the bladder mucosa, reducing its protective barrier against infections.

Preventive strategies

Preventing UTIs involves adopting good hygiene practices and lifestyle habits that reduce the risk of bacterial contamination in the urinary tract.

Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids, at least 3 to 4 liters of clean water daily, helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract.

Consuming cranberry juice or supplements: These can alter urinary pH and prevent bacteria from adhering to bladder walls, thereby reducing the risk of UTIs.

Genital hygiene: Keeping the genital area dry and free from chemical irritants like douches or deodorants helps maintain the natural barrier against infections. Wiping from front to back after using the restroom prevents the spread of bacteria.

Restroom habits: Emptying the bladder completely and avoiding delaying restroom use helps prevent bacterial stagnation in the urinary tract. Urinating immediately after intercourse flushes out bacteria introduced during sexual activity.

Dietary considerations: Foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and bell peppers, help acidify urine and inhibit bacterial growth in the urinary tract. Probiotics from yogurt and fermented foods maintain a healthy bacterial balance in the gut and urinary tract, reducing the risk of UTIs.

Medical intervention: Timely medical treatment with antibiotics like trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole or Norfloxacine, along with urinary alkalizers, is crucial. Contraception methods like barrier contraception also help prevent infection.

These strategies, combined with awareness of environmental factors and personal hygiene, play a vital role in managing and preventing UTIs, especially during seasons when risk factors are heightened.