Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) might sound daunting but understanding them can help you manage and prevent them more effectively. Let’s break down what UTIs are, what causes them and how you can tackle them with advice from the experts.
What is a UTI?
Pharmacist Nonkululo Cingo of Medipost Pharmacy explains that UTIs are bacterial infections of the urinary system.
“UTIs may affect any part of the urinary tract,” says Cingo. “This includes the kidneys, the bladder, the ureters that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder, and the urethra, which is the tube that urine travels through from the bladder to exit the body.”
UTIs usually occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and multiply in the bladder. While our bodies are equipped to fend off these bacteria, sometimes they manage to take hold and cause an infection.
UTIs are incredibly common, especially among women. Due to the shorter length of the urethra in women, bacteria have a shorter distance to travel to reach the bladder, making infections more likely.
A recent study published in the “Journal of Health and Biological Sciences” has revealed that South Africa has the highest prevalence of urinary tract infections (UTIs) among eight sub-Saharan African countries.
The study found that the overall prevalence of UTIs in sub-Saharan Africa is 32.12%, with South Africa recording the highest prevalence at 67.6%, followed by Nigeria at 43.65% and Zambia at 38.25%
Cingo adds, “The symptoms that may be present are cloudy urine, blood in the urine, pains or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic area.”
Various risk factors may contribute to the development of a UTI:
- Diabetes.
- Having a weakened immune system, for example, people on chemotherapy.
- Kidney stones or other obstructions in the urinary tract.
- Pregnancy.
- Menopause.
- Incorrect use of a catheter.
- Using unsanitary public toilets.
“Although men can also get UTIs, these conditions tend to be more common in women because women have a shorter urethra, which unfortunately makes it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract.”
Antibiotics are the go-to treatment for UTIs. It’s important to follow the full course of treatment, even if symptoms disappear, to ensure the infection is fully cleared. Alongside antibiotics, drinking plenty of water helps flush out bacteria from the urinary system.
According to Cingo urinary alkalisers, which are medications that reduce the acidity of urine, are often recommended to treat infections by altering the pH of the environment, making it less conducive to bacterial growth.
“Medications containing flavoxate hydrochloride are available without prescription to help reduce muscle spasms of the bladder and urinary tract associated with UTIs. There are also tested and approved herbal formulas that can be found at the pharmacy that may be recommended for short-term treatment.
“As with any medication, it is essential that self-care products are taken only as directed. Do not use medication for longer than is recommended, usually a maximum of 10 days only, without seeing a doctor.
“This is particularly important in the case of recurring urinary tract infections and persistent pains, as there may be an underlying health condition that needs to be treated.”
Certain lifestyle habits can increase your risk of developing a UTI but small changes can make a big difference:
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water dilutes your urine, helping flush bacteria out of your urinary tract.
Frequent urination: Don’t hold in your urine for too long. Regular urination helps remove bacteria from your bladder.
Wipe properly: Women should always wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from spreading from the anal area to the urethra.
Avoid irritants: Products like deodorant sprays and douches can irritate the urethra and increase infection risk.
Practice safe hygiene: Urinating after sexual activity can help clear bacteria from the urinary tract.
Cingo emphasises the importance of understanding your body and its signals.
“Being in tune with your body can help you make better health decisions and prevent infections,” she advises.
While UTIs are common, they can be managed and prevented with the right knowledge and habits. Staying hydrated, maintaining good hygiene, and listening to your body are key steps in keeping UTIs at bay. Your health is worth the effort and attention.
“The symptoms can be very uncomfortable, and there is no need to suffer when UTIs can often be effectively treated at home. Left untreated, UTIs can develop into more serious complications.
“If you suspect a UTI, consult with a healthcare professional promptly to ensure effective treatment.”