2024-08-01 11:49:52
Bacteria’s best friends
A tight wet bathing suit is refreshing in the heat of the sun, not only the body but also the bacteria are happy with it.
“Moisture and heat are the perfect environment for bacteria to multiply, including those that cause urinary tract infections. By itself, a wet bathing suit or tights does not cause an infection. However, when favorable conditions arise, bacteria that have entered through it from the water can reach the urinary tract, where they multiply and cause inflammation – well recognized by symptoms such as increased urination and an unpleasant burning sensation,” says J. Verikaitė and adds that if possible, the water after bathing in the pools, it is recommended to wash with clean water and change into dry clothes.
Suffering is unhealthy
There are people for whom picnics in nature become a challenge not only because of the buzzing mosquitoes, but also because of the difficulty of relieving oneself in the absence of a regular toilet. The doctor says she understands why it may cause discomfort for some, but she does not recommend suffering and holding urine for a long time, especially for women.
Along with urine, harmful bacteria are removed from the urinary tract. When suffering, these multiply and increase the risk of urinary tract infection. Therefore, even far from civilization, you should find a way to relieve yourself.
During trips, it is important not to reduce the amount of water consumed. We hear about the importance of drinking even several liters of water a day almost every day. However, J. Verikaitė says that it is also relevant for the prevention of urinary tract infection.
“When the body lacks fluids, the urine becomes more concentrated and the bacteria that cause inflammation are more likely to multiply. Ensuring a sufficient amount of fluids, respectively visiting the toilet and regularly removing from the urinary tract not only excess fluids, but also harmful microorganisms. The color of the urine will help to assess whether the body is lacking fluids – it should be light yellow,” says the doctor.
After romantic moments, straight to the toilet
Another interesting fact is that a urinary tract infection can also be contracted during sexual intercourse. Bacteria living in a warm intimate environment can easily be transmitted between partners by contact.
“Again, women are at greater risk of experiencing symptoms, as their urinary tracts are anatomically shorter than men, whose bladder is “protected” by a longer urethra and prostate. For this reason, it is recommended to urinate after intercourse. In this way, together with urine, bacteria are also washed out of the body,” the urologist points out.
Unpleasant but recognizable signs
A urinary tract infection can be recognized primarily by a noticeable increase in urination. It looks like you’ve just been to the toilet, and things are kicking up again. There may also be a burning sensation, pain when urinating, the urine becomes cloudy, concentrated, sometimes with blood admixture. Without timely treatment, the infection can spread to the kidneys – then medical help becomes extremely important.
You should be especially careful during the hot season. Research shows that warmer weather increases the risk of urinary tract infections, especially in women. For example, a study conducted in the United States showed that after weeks with an average temperature of 25-30 degrees Celsius, the number of cystitis cases increased by 20-30 percent, compared to weeks after cooler weather (5-7.5 degrees Celsius).
Important details
The urologist says that delaying is useless and dangerous – this infection is treated with antibiotics, which can only be prescribed by a doctor, and cranberry juice or herbal teas are only auxiliary means.
Cystitis, called in medicine, is diagnosed by laboratory and instrumental tests. An ultrasound examination is performed, structural changes of the bladder and kidneys are evaluated. In the case of recurrent urinary tract infection, cystoscopy is also prescribed – this is a test during which the bladder is examined from the inside, and even very small changes in its tissues are detected. Symptoms usually subside within a few days with proper treatment.
In order to avoid urinary tract infections, it is important to pay attention to the support of the immune system and correct personal hygiene – wash regularly and it is best to do this in the shower, not in the bath. Also, do not forget the rule of proper wiping – when cleaning the perineum, it should be done from front to back.
Especially on hot days, it is best to give preference to underwear made of natural fabrics – bamboo, cotton, or at least choose underwear with such fabrics.
2024-08-01 11:49:52