It’s a beautiful day, the sun is not too bright not too hot, it is a Friday and you have made plans for the weekend with your friends when suddenly you’re sidelined by an all-too-familiar discomfort. The frequent urge to urinate, accompanied by a burning sensation, is a silent spoiler we’d rather avoid – the famous urinary tract infection (UTI).
What if I told you there were measures to prevent UTIs and effective strategies to treat them when they occur?
A doctor with over 15 years of experience puts it best, “Urinary tract infections might be common, but they shouldn’t be taken lightly. Prevention is the first line of defense, and understanding the treatment can help put your mind at ease.”
Stay hydrated and hygiene-conscious
Firstly, hydration is key. According to him, “Staying well-hydrated helps to flush bacteria out of your urinary system. It’s like a natural cleanse for your kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.” So, keep your water bottle handy. Aim for at least eight 8-ounce glasses daily, but bear in mind that individual needs can vary.
He emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated: “A well-hydrated body helps to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract, reducing the risk of infection.” So, make it a habit to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Maintaining good hygiene practices is key. He advises, “Always wipe from front to back after using the bathroom to prevent the spread of bacteria.”
Urinate regularly and completely
Don’t hold it in! There is a significance of emptying your bladder frequently: “By urinating regularly, you reduce the chances of bacteria multiplying in your urinary tract.”
Make sure to fully empty your bladder during each bathroom visit. “Incomplete bladder emptying can increase the risk of UTIs, as residual urine provides a breeding ground for bacteria.”
UTIs are often caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra. By keeping the genital area clean and wiping from front to back after using the toilet, you can help prevent the transfer of bacteria.
Dress comfortably and choose breathable fabrics:
Ladies, listen up! This advice is specifically for women, “Wearing breathable cotton underwear and avoiding tight-fitting clothing can promote proper airflow, preventing excessive moisture and bacterial growth in the genital area.” So, wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing to help keep those bacteria at bay.
But what if you’re doing everything right and still find yourself in the grip of a UTI? Don’t worry KURA got you. While prevention is important, treatment is crucial, over-the-counter pain relief can alleviate symptoms, it’s important to seek professional help to address the infection properly.
Usually, UTIs are treated with antibiotics, and the type, dosage, and length of treatment will depend on the specific bacteria causing the infection and your overall health.
A UTI isn’t just a minor inconvenience, the discomfort it causes can significantly impact your day-to-day activities. Remember, while hydration, hygiene, and diet can help in prevention, if you suspect a UTI, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.
Your health is your wealth!
