Sweating, poor hygiene habits, increased sexual activity or incorrect hydration are factors that increase the risk of suffering Urinary infections. Although this condition can occur at any time of the year, it is in the summer when cases multiply.
As explained by Dr. Vanessa Pantoja, Urologist at the Urozen Medical Center, around the 90% of cases of urinary tract infections are responsible for E. Coli, a bacterium typical of the digestive tract that invades the urinary tract, causing an imbalance in the local flora and produces characteristic symptoms, such as changes in the smell and color of the urine, burning when urinating, itching, pain in the lower abdomen, increased frequency of urination and even fever.
“In the summer, high temperatures cause increased sweating in the intimate area. If proper care is not provided, this can facilitate the passage of bacteria from the digestive system to the genital area and start an infection. For anatomical reasons, women are more susceptible to this type of illness, so precautions must be greater”, emphasizes Dr. Pantoja.
Since prevention is the best tool to avoid suffering from this ailment, the specialist offers five tips to prevent urinary tract infections from ruining the summer:
one. Drink water
You have to be hydrated to expel germs. Photo: Pexels.
A simple way to preserve the health of the urinary system is to drink at least 2 liters of water a day. In the hot months, maintaining proper hydration allows mechanical expulsion of germs and prevents their proliferation. Likewise, in case of infection, it is necessary to restrict the consumption of coffee, alcohol or sugary drinks.
2. Wear cotton underwear
They do not cause sweating. Photo: Pexels.
The use of underwear made of synthetic materials should be avoided, since they prevent adequate ventilation of the genital area. In addition, cotton is hypoallergenic and does not cause sweating.
3. Do not overdo hygiene
Do not exceed in intimate hygiene to preserve the bacterial balance. Photo: Pexels.
The use of chemical products, vaginal showers or soaps in genital hygiene modify the pH of the area and alter the protective flora. Cleaning is best done with water only to maintain the bacterial balance.
Four. Urinating after sexual activity
Although UTIs are not sexually transmitted, intercourse can make it easier for microbes to enter the urinary tract. That is why it is advisable to urinate after a sexual encounter so that the microorganisms that may have entered are expelled.
5. Do not self-medicate
Self-medication or not following the specialist’s instructions aggravate the condition and the prognosis. Photo: Pexels.
In case of presenting symptoms that resemble a urinary infection, it is essential to see a specialist in urology to confirm the diagnosis. Based on the clinical and laboratory examination, the professional will determine the specific treatment. Self-medication or not following the specialist’s instructions aggravate the condition and the prognosis, since there is a risk that pathogens develop resistance to drugs.
It is important to know the risk factors, obey the instructions of the professionals and visit the urologist regularly. “Although urinary tract infections are common conditions in summer, reinfections or presenting three or more episodes in a year are signs of a underlying problem that requires specialized attention,” concludes Dr. Pantoja.
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