Summer Burn

In summer, many women complain of a slight burning sensation while passing urine.

In summer, many women complain of a slight burning sensation while passing urine. If it is due to dehydration, drinking plenty of water and other fluids gives relief. However, if it persists, it could be a urinary tract infection UTI. You need to contact your doctor immediately or the weather can make it worse.

What is UTI?
A urinary tract infection UTI is inflammation caused by harmful bacteria. It is common in women aged between 20 and 50. 8220;The infection can be in a region from the urethra to the bladder to the kidney,8221; said Dr Anoop Misra, head of department of metabolism and diabetes, Fortis. About one in five women get infected at least once during these years. If left untreated, UTI can be quite painful as the infection can travel upwards and reach the kidneys. A simple urine culture test can detect the presence of infection-causing bacteria.

What are the possible symptoms?
8226; Pain or a burning sensation when passing urine
8226;Pain in your pelvis, the lower part of your abdomen, the lower part of your back, or in your sides
8226;Fever with marked shivering
8226;Nausea and vomiting
8226;Frequent need to go to the toilet
8226;Uncontrollable urge to pass urine incontinence
8226;Strong-smelling urine
8226;Change in the amount of urine passed either more or less
8226;In extreme cases, blood and pus in the urine
8226;Pain during sexual intercourse

8220;Signs that the infection has spread to your kidneys might include a high temperature and constant pain in the area of one or both of your kidneys,8221; said Dr Misra.

How does summer affect UTI?
8220;Anything which causes stagnation of urine or low input of urine causes UTI. Summers can worsen the symptoms as urine output is less,8221; Dr Misra said.

How can it be avoided?
8226;Drink plenty of water. 8220;If you are prone to infection drink at least three litres of water. The chances of infection are reduced if urine flow is maintained. Long-term low-grade antibiotic therapy can also help in case this does not help,8221; said Dr Misra.
8226;Clean your genital area regularly.
8226;Don8217;t suppress the need to urinate. The longer the urine stays in the bladder, the higher are the chances of an infection.
8226;Avoid using public toilets.
8226;Go to the toilet soon after having sexual intercourse.
8226;Avoid soaking in a tub for too long. Have a quick shower instead and dry yourself well. Do not share your towel with anyone.
8226;Wear cotton underwear and avoid tights.
8226;Do not wear tight-fitting pants or polyester or synthetic garments.
8226;Maintain good personal hygiene. Change underwear and tights every day 8212; or even twice a day during the hot summer months.
8226;Avoid spicy food and carbonated drinks.
8226;Drink cranberry juice. Other fluids that help clear UTI are tender coconut water, barley water, buttermilk as these are believed to be diuretics. However, do speak with your doctor before you take these.
8226;Take a diet rich in vitamin C as it keeps the acidity level of urine high. Bacteria cannot thrive in an acidic medium.