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Preventing Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

By on November 8, 2010

Urinary tract infection (UTI), also known as cystitis or a bladder infection, is a condition that mainly affects females. One in every five women worldwide suffer from UTI.

While some might experience it as an isolated incident, it is a persistent problem for many others. The infection has to be treated promptly, as a prolonged infection can lead to severe kidney problems.

UTI causes the bladder or the urethra to inflame. Most infections are caused by bacteria. Urine gets extracted from the kidney and is stored in the bladder, from where it is passed out of the body. The stored urine is usually germ-free and it washes out the bacteria in the urethra as it passes out.

But sometimes these bacteria overcome the body’s defences and start to multiply, causing an infection. UTI usually exhibits symptoms like a frequent urge to urinate, burning sensation while urinating, as well as cramps in the lower abdomen. The urine can also be foul smelling or dark.

It is important to treat the infection at the first sign of discomfort. Consume foods rich in vitamin C as soon as you see any signs of UTI. Cranberry is also recommended very strongly. Vitamin C acidifies urine and makes it hostile for harmful bacteria.

Vitamin C also helps in solidifying the immune defences of the body. Apart from acidifying urine, cranberry also prevents the bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract, thus minimizing the chances of infection.

Since UTI can lead to serious kidney infections, it is recommended that you try these remedies for only as long as 36 hours. If the infection persists, then you should seek professional advice.

The most important way of preventing UTI is to maintain a high level of personal hygiene. Keep the genital area clean and dry. After urinating, clean thoroughly from front to back. Washing before and after sexual intercourse also reduced the chances of infection.

Controlling the urge to urinate increases the chances of infection. Do not suppress the urge to empty the bladder. Also wear loose cotton undergarments. Drinking plenty of water also reduces the chances of infection. Ideally one should have 250 ml of water every 1 hour to prevent infection.

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