Urinary Tract Infection: Know about the causes, symptoms and treatment

Urinary tract infections or UTIs can affect anyone at any time. However, women are more prone to these infections compared to men. This is because the urethra of women is shorter than that of men and bacteria moves comfortably and rapidly. It also makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Some of the symptoms of UTIs include discomfort such as burning sensation and pain, and at times even fever. Some other symptoms include nausea, cloudy urine and foul smell in urine. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

A common theory says that a healthy woman's urine is sterile and bacteria are shared amongst the bladder and the vagina. But in few studies done in US, researchers have debunked this belief and said that a woman's bladder is not sterile. It said that the bladder contains both good and bad bacteria and this can be quite helpful for the better diagnosis of UTIs. The research also said that the microbiota consists of E.coli and S.anginosus besides L.iners and L.cripatus. The good bacteria present in the bladder and vagina can safeguard against UTIs. (Source: Pixabay)

Gastrointestinal conditions include functional constipation or frequent acidity, to more serious, chronic conditions such as metabolic syndrome and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. If not treated effectively, such conditions can increase the risk of complications such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, as per MayoClinic.org. In order to tackle these conditions, a holistic disease management approach that includes diet and lifestyle modifications is necessary. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

“Avoid cold water to prevent cold and cough. Do not eat spicy, oily, processed, and junk food as it can lead to acidity that is a common health problem during the sunny days. Moreover, hydration is the key to wellness,” said Dr Modi. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Meal composition: The ideal dietary plan will balance various factors to meet nutritional requirements. These include energy content, foods that may aggravate conditions, and criteria for intake of fibre, greens, proteins, carbohydrates and other food groups. For instance, increased consumption of non-starchy and green leafy vegetables, as well as whole unrefined grains is recommended for people with obesity, as per the ICDR. While your doctor or nutritionist can help you determine the optimal diet, stay flexible and add variety to make your week’s meals more interesting. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Another home remedy for treating UTIs is apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is enriched with antibacterial components. Drink it with some lukewarm water on an empty stomach each morning. “It can be quite helpful in killing UTI-related bacteria,” said Kaul. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Antimicrobial components of ginger tea could be quite potent against a number of bacterial strains. Ginger is one of the finest and most effective home remedies for UTI. Chewing ginger, drinking ginger juice, and ginger tea are known to be quite effective in treating UTIs. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Cucumber has a high amount of water, which is an excellent way to get to have extra fluid through your system when you feel yourself having a hard time drinking sufficient water. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Don’t hold the urge to urinate. Remember that each time you release urine, you get some amount of bacteria out. If you hold it in, you increase the chances of bacteria forming and multiplying. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

“Usually, one should look to refrain from consuming foods that irritates your bladder during UTI. Thus, you should ideally try to refrain from consuming acidic fruits such as lemon, oranges, and tomatoes. Also, try to stay away from juice made of those things. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Be sure to ask your nutritionist or doctor for a tailored plan to take care of your gut health and manage your gastrointestinal condition. Here are six key components that every tailored diet and lifestyle management plan should include. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)