Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Urinary tract infections usually do not cause any signs and symptoms in their early course. However, there are certain symptoms that every woman needs to be aware of, and it is advisable to book an appointment with a gynecologist if the symptoms fail to improve in a day or two with home treatment. Each type of UTI may result in more specific signs and symptoms depending on which part of the urinary tract is infected:

• Kidneys (acute pyelonephritis)
• Bladder (cystitis)
• Urethra (urethritis)

The common signs and symptoms of urinary tract infection include:

• A strong and persistent urge to urinate
• Experiencing a burning sensation while urinating
• Appearance of cloudy urine
• Strong-smelling urine
• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
• Appearance of blood in the urine
• A sudden urge to urinate
• Feeling pain during urination
• Experiencing lower back pain

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections. Escherichia coli is the most prevalent bacterium causing UTIs in patients. Other common causative pathogens include:

• Klebsiella pneumoniae
• Proteus mirabilis
• Enterococcus faecalis
• Staphylococcus saprophyticus

UTIs typically occur when bacteria enter the urinary bladder through the urethra and begin to multiply. Although the urinary system is designed to prevent these bacteria from entering, it sometimes fails. A full-blown infection of the urinary tract manifests when the body cannot effectively manage the infection.

Some of the common causes of UTIs include:

• Holding urine for extended periods
• Practicing poor vaginal hygiene, especially during menstruation
• Having underlying health conditions such as diabetes or dehydration
• Experiencing irregular bowel movements or constipation
• Not adhering to proper hygiene practices after sexual activity

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are more common in women than in men. This could be attributed to the fact that women have shorter urethras than men. The shortness of the urethra, with its close relationship to the anus, makes it easy for bacteria to ascend in the urinary tract. Other factors that can increase the risk of UTIs include:

• Changes in vaginal pH can trigger bacterial growth.
• Menopause causes a significant reduction in estrogen secretion, which alters vaginal pH.
• Diabetes is correlated with the development of asymptomatic bacteriuria.
• Frequent sexual activity and having new sexual partners.
• Use of spermicides or diaphragms for contraception may irritate the vagina and urethra, facilitating the entry and colonization of bacteria.
• Other factors include age of the first UTI, maternal history of UTI, and voiding dysfunction.

In addition to these common factors, there are a few other risk factors for UTI infection in women. These are:

• Abnormalities of the urinary tract.
• Poor immunity.
• Blockage of the urinary tract (due to kidney stones, etc.).
• Use of a catheter.
• Any recent surgery of the urinary tract.

In most cases, a urinary tract infection does not cause any symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose. However, if you are experiencing any symptoms of UTI, consult your gynecologist at the earliest. Your doctor may perform a physical examination and take a clinical history, followed by an internal examination to assess your condition. Common tests that can help check for bacterial infection include:

• Urine Routine & Microscopy to check for white blood cells, red blood cells, and bacterial growth
• Urine culture test to detect bacteria in culture grown and provide specific treatment
• CT Urography or Urogram of the urinary system to detect the presence of renal stones
• USG, MRI, or CT scan of the abdomen
• MRI or CT scan of the pelvis to detect any abnormalities in the urinary system
• Cystoscopy in cases of recurrent UTI to view the urethra and bladder for any suspected abnormalities

Most UTIs are caused by bacteria that are already in the bladder, so flushing them out is the most important way to prevent an infection. Here are some effective ways to prevent recurrent UTIs:

1. Drink enough fluids: One of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent a UTI is by staying well hydrated. Fluids help move things through the urinary tract and dilute the urine, making it difficult for bacteria to grow. Aim to drink 1-2 liters of fluids daily.
2. Don’t hold the urine: The longer urine remains in the bladder, the higher the chances of bacterial overgrowth, as stagnant fluid creates an ideal environment for infection. Avoid the habit of holding it for long periods, as this increases your risk of infection.
3. Practice good toilet hygiene: After using the toilet, wipe from front to back to prevent pushing bacteria closer to the urethra. This is especially important after a bowel movement.
4. Empty your bladder after sex: Sexual intercourse can transfer bacteria from the vagina into the urethra, increasing the risk of infection. Urinating after sex helps flush out any bacteria that may have migrated to the bladder during intercourse.
5. Choose contraceptives with caution: If you are prone to UTIs, it is advisable to avoid spermicides and diaphragms. Spermicides can introduce bacteria into the vagina and alter vaginal pH, creating an environment conducive to bacterial overgrowth. Diaphragms may hinder complete bladder emptying, increasing infection risk.
6. Use female hygiene products carefully: If you frequently experience UTIs, avoid bubble baths, bath oils, and perfumed products around the genital area. Some doctors recommend switching from tampons to sanitary pads, as tampons may provide bacteria with more opportunities to enter the body and irritate the urethra.
7. Change out of workout clothes quickly: If you are prone to UTIs, change out of your workout clothes immediately after exercising. Excessive sweat can promote bacterial growth, which may migrate into the urethra and lead to a UTI.
8. Avoid tight-fitting clothes: Wearing loose-fitting clothing helps keep you dry, preventing bacterial growth in the urinary tract. Opt for cotton underwear to minimize moisture around the urethra.

Antibiotics are the primary options for treatment. If you have ever taken antibiotics, you may have noticed that you start feeling better on the second day of taking the medications, whereas your doctor has prescribed a 5-day course.

Some medicines used to treat UTIs include:

• Doxycycline
• Quinolones such as Ciprofloxacin, Ciprofloxacin+Phenazopyridine, Ofloxacin+Flavoxate, Levofloxacin, and Ofloxacin
• Cephalosporins such as Ceftriaxone
• Nitrofurantoin
• Clotrimazole
• Amoxicillin

Some of the self-care measures for UTI you can follow include:

• Use a hot water bottle to ease discomfort and pain.
• Drink plenty of water. Aim for 8-12 glasses every day.
• Urinate when you first feel the need. Bacteria can grow when urine stays in the bladder too long.
• Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes to allow air circulation and keep the area dry.
• Take Vitamin C, as it increases the acidity of urine, making it more difficult for bacteria to grow.
• Avoid chocolate, citrus, carbonated drinks, and caffeine, as these can irritate the lining of your bladder, allowing bacteria to thrive.

If left untreated, a urinary tract infection (UTI) can last for several months. There is a significant risk that the infection may spread to other parts of the body, such as the kidneys, potentially resulting in a kidney infection. UTIs can also lead to recurrent infections, particularly in women. In rare cases, they can progress to sepsis, a life-threatening infection of the blood that may cause severe complications.

Home Remedies for UTI

• Parsley: Acts as a diuretic, flushing your kidneys to eliminate bacteria and accelerate the healing process of UTI. Boil 1-2 cups of water, add 1 cup of fresh parsley or 2 tablespoons of dried parsley, simmer, strain, and drink. In summer, refrigerate it for a refreshing drink.
• Celery Seeds: Also act as a diuretic. Chewing a handful can help increase urine production. Snack on celery seeds once or twice a day after meals.
• Cucumbers: With high water content, they provide extra fluid when hydration is challenging. Enjoy cucumber juice with a dash of ginger juice or add cucumbers to your salad.
• Probiotics: Considered a major home remedy for combating UTI-causing bacteria. Studies suggest that beneficial bacterial flora helps prevent the proliferation of harmful microorganisms. Increase your intake of probiotics such as yogurt, raw cheese, kimchi, and kefir.
• Garlic: Rich in allicin, garlic exhibits antibacterial properties. Daily intake of a garlic clove can help prevent infections.
• Cranberry: Studies indicate that cranberries can inhibit the growth and colonization of bacteria, including E. coli, the most common bacteria associated with urinary tract infections. Consider incorporating cranberries into your diet regularly.