What Is Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is known as a bacterial infection of the bladder or kidneys. It is a common condition, particularly among females. Over half of females will suffer at least one UTI in their lives. Because women’s urethras are shorter than men’s, bacteria can enter the bladder more easily. Additionally, the risk of infection is increased in women during their periods due to hormonal changes.
Common Causes of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
UTIs may result from bacteria (germs) from the following:
- Poor Vaginal Hygiene, failure to keep the genital area dry and clean
- Having health issues like diabetes, dehydration,
- Holding pee for long hours
- Bacteria from stools enter the urethra.
- Urine that remains in your bladder after you pee
- Irritation from tight clothing and poor hygiene practices after sexual activity.
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Signs & Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
- Urinary discomfort, burning sensation or feeling pain during peeing
- Sudden or frequent urination issues
- Urine that is cloudy, reddish, or has a tea- or coffee-like colour
- Fatigue or weakness; pain in the side or lower back
- Bad-smelling urine or pain in the pelvis in females
Diagnosis & Treatments of UTIs
If someone has a UTI, it can only be diagnosed by a urine test. Antibiotics are effective at treating UTIs in most cases. UTIs are treated according to the underlying cause; if bacteria were to blame, antibiotics were given. You might be required to complete the antibiotic course as part of your treatment; failing to do so increases your risk of infection or relapse.
Precaution and prevention of UTI
- Maintain a clean genital area.
- Take showers rather than baths in tubs.
- After using the restroom, women should always wipe from front to back.
- Cranberry juice and other cranberry-related products are helpful for UTIs.
- Wear loose-fitting cotton underclothes
- Avoid alcohol and foods and drinks with caffeine because they might irritate the bladder and make symptoms worse.
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Home Remedies for UTI
Stay Hydrated
Drink at least eight glasses of water every day. Consuming alternate drinks will also help you consume more fluids. Steering clear of caffeinated beverages including coffee, tea, and soft drinks.
Take probiotics-rich food
Foods high in probiotics are a wonderful source of good bacteria that help maintain a healthy intestinal bacterium. Consuming fermented foods like yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, or tempeh or other effective ways to avoid TUI Issues include taking probiotic supplements. They could also help prevent UTIs by the development of healthy bacteria in the urinary tract.
Don’t use certain products
Scent-containing products such as scented tampons, pads, powders, deodorant sprays, bath oils, bubble baths, and douches can irritate the vaginal area and upset the pH balance of the vagina, which encourages bacterial growth and increases the risk of UTIs.
Practice good hygiene habits before and after sex
Washing your genital area gently both before and after sex is an excellent idea. Preserving these hygiene practices may assist to prevent UTI concerns. Urinating right before and right after sex helps to flush out bacteria, clean, and limit the probability of bacteria travelling to your urethra lowering your risk of UTI.
Increase Vitamin C intake
Vitamin C consumption may reduce your risk of UTIs by making your urine more acidic and eradicating infection-causing bacteria. Red peppers, oranges, grapefruit, and kiwifruit are excellent providers of vitamin C, also eating other fruits and vegetables is a fantastic method to improve your consumption of vitamin C.