Urinary tract infections can occur at any time of year, but it is in summer when many women suffer from them - men can also get urinary tract infections but women are much more susceptible.
Bathing, wearing a wet swimsuit, and even sex are some of the causes of these infections. Taking antibiotics or birth control pills, using vaginal hygiene products, and holding in urine are other possible causes.
Whether you have recurring urinary tract infections or have never had one, it's important to know the symptoms of a urinary tract infection—and when to call the doctor—because urinary tract infections can lead to kidney infections if left untreated.
Symptoms
- Constant urge to urinate, but only urinating a small amount each time.
- Burning sensation when urinating
- Blood in the urine
- Strong-smelling and/or opaque urine
- Pelvic pain and/or pressure in the abdomen
- Fever
When should I call a doctor?
- When the pain is severe and/or in the back
- If you have blood in your urine
- When you have a fever
- If you also have nausea or vomiting
Urinary tract infections are usually caused by bacteria that enter the urinary system from the outside—typically E. coli bacteria. Other, less common types of cystitis can be caused by medications, catheter use, and radiation, among other factors.
Although cystitis is very bothersome, and for many women recurrent, it is possible to treat it naturally from the beginning - without having to resort to antibiotics when it is already advanced - and even prevent it.
Prevention through lifestyle
Lifestyle greatly influences the occurrence of urinary tract infections. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle—getting enough sleep, eating well, and drinking sufficient water—is essential. In addition, it is important to:
- Take a shower instead of a bath
- Wear clean, dry underwear (change into a dry swimsuit at the beach and pool)
- Wipe from front to back (or use a bidet) after using the toilet
- Urinate after sex to eliminate possible bacteria
- Maintain good hygiene habits (washing the genital area daily) but carefully and without using harsh products or cosmetics, such as genital deodorants.
- Consider taking a probiotic supplement if you are taking antibiotics to treat another infection.
Beneficial supplements
In addition to lifestyle, we can use supplements to prevent urinary tract infections.
Probiotics : Bacteria are a normal part of our bodies. It's not possible to eliminate all harmful bacteria. In fact, our bodies contain 'good' bacteria that are essential for good health. Maintaining a healthy gut microbiota is also important for the urinary system. Eating foods rich in prebiotics and probiotics, and/or taking a probiotic supplement, can help keep your gut microbiota in optimal condition, ensuring a balance of 'good' and 'bad' bacteria and preventing infections.
D-Mannose: It is a compound that is part of some fruits and berries, such as cranberries, and studies have shown that it helps eliminate e. coli bacteria from the urinary system - the bacteria that causes most urinary tract infections.
American Cranberry: It's the preventative we've been taking for a long time. It has antibacterial properties, and its high content of proanthocyanidins, a polysaccharide, helps eliminate E. coli bacteria.
This summer, and all year round, make sure you take care of yourself every day.
This information is for informational purposes only and should not replace consultation with a medical professional. Prepared using information from mayoclinic.org