Urinary tract infections (UTI) are a common bacterial infection that affects the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys. Women are more susceptible to UTIs than men. However, anyone at any age can develop a UTI.
A UTI can cause a lot of discomforts and make it challenging to go about your daily activities. In this article, we will be discussing tips and tricks to manage urinary infections.
Signs and Symptoms of Urinary Infections
A UTI can cause a range of symptoms, including:.
- Burning sensation while urinating
- Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine
- Frequent urge to urinate, even when little or no urine is produced
- Lower abdominal pain or pressure
- Fever and chills
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your healthcare provider, who will perform a urine analysis to confirm if you have a UTI. Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.
Treatment usually lasts between three to seven days, depending on the severity of the infection.
Managing Urinary Infections at Home
Here are some tips to manage urinary infections at home:.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps flush bacteria out of your urinary tract and reduce the risk of infection. Aim for at least eight cups of water per day and drink more than usual when you have a UTI. Water is always the best option.
However, you can also drink unsweetened cranberry juice or take cranberry supplements, which may help prevent UTIs.
Practice Good Hygiene
Wipe yourself from front to back after using the toilet. This helps prevent the spread of bacteria from your anus to your urethra. Also, consider taking a shower instead of a bath.
If you prefer baths, avoid using bubble baths, bath oils, and scented soaps, as they can irritate your urethra.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Avoid tight-fitting clothing that can create a moist and warm environment around your genitals, which can lead to bacterial growth. Wear breathable cotton underwear and loose-fitting pants or skirts.
Related Article
Unraveling the Mysteries of Urinary Infections
Use Heating Pads
Using a heating pad on your lower abdomen can help reduce the discomfort of UTIs. Alternatively, you can use a warm compress. Be sure to cover the heating pad or compress with a towel to avoid burns.
Take Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve UTIs pain and reduce fever. Your healthcare provider may also prescribe stronger pain relievers if the pain is severe.
Finish Your Antibiotics Medications
It’s important to complete your antibiotics medication, even if you’re feeling better. This will help ensure that the infection is completely gone, and the bacteria do not become resistant to antibiotics.
Preventing UTIs
Preventing UTIs is key to avoiding the pain and discomfort that comes with an infection. Here are some tips for preventing UTIs:.
Drink Plenty of Water
As earlier stated, drinking plenty of water helps flush bacteria out of your urinary tract. It’s important to drink water throughout the day and not wait until you feel thirsty.
Empty Your Bladder Often
Do not hold in urine for a long time. This can increase the risk of UTIs. Urinate frequently, even if you do not feel the urge to go. Also, be sure to empty your bladder completely when you do go to the toilet.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
Avoid tight-fitting clothing such as skinny jeans and tights that can trap moisture and bacteria around your genitals. Wear breathable underwear and loose-fitting clothes instead.
Practice Good Hygiene
Wipe from front to back after using the toilet and wash your genital area with plain water or gentle, unscented soap. Avoid using douches, powders, or sprays in the genital area.
Urinate After Having Sex
Urinating after sex helps flush out any bacteria that may have entered your urethra during intercourse.
Conclusion
Urinary infections can cause severe discomfort, but they are treatable. It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of UTI.
In addition, preventative measures such as staying hydrated, practicing good hygiene, and wearing comfortable clothing can help reduce the risk of developing UTIs. Lastly, be sure to complete your antibiotics medication even if you’re feeling better and discuss any concerns or questions you have with your healthcare provider.
