Have you heard of urinary tract infections (UTIs)? Urinary tract infections are infections in any part of the urinary system. This includes the kidneys and the bladder. Did you know that they are more common in women? Apparently, women are more likely to develop UTIs because they have a shorter urethra than men. This means that bacteria don’t have to travel very far to reach and infect a woman’s bladder. Infections of the bladder or urethra are the most common, although serious infections can also affect the kidneys.
UTIs are self-diagnosable. You might feel an increased urge to urinate, pelvic pain, pain with urination, and blood in the urine.
A kidney infection may cause back pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. All these may differ from person to person. People might feel pain during sexual intercourse and others may feel incomplete bladder emptying. Females may even get vaginal irritation.
What To Do If You Suspect You Have An UTI
Antibiotics are the best approach to treat UTIs, although the body can sometimes treat minor UTIs without them. Your first response should be seeking medical attention. Depending on the severity of the infection, you may need to see professional medical attention.
For Mild UTIs, you can stay hydrated, urinate when the need arises, drink cranberry juice(contains antioxidants which have anti-inflammatory properties). It’s also good to get enough vitamin c in your system and practice good sexual hygiene( urinating before and after sex, using condoms and ensuring that sexual partners are aware of any current or previous UTIs).
It’s Ashawo season but stay protected.
