Monsoons are a welcome relief from the scorching heat of the summer months that precede them. However, the months are notorious for some of the most annoying and potentially dangerous illnesses like typhoid, jaundice, dengue and malaria. One such disease that is quite common during the monsoons is UTI or urinary tract infection.

Health care experts are of the opinion that UTI is seen more during the monsoon season, due to a sudden change in the temperatures and the moisture-laden air, which are favourable for the proliferation of bacteria and other pathogens. In the recent news, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president M Karunanidhi has also been admitted to the hospital after being diagnosed by UTI.

What is UTI or Urinary Tract Infection?

UTI is a severe health problem caused by pathogens such as E Coli, which multiply in the urinary system, especially during the monsoons. The disease affects both women and men alike; however it’s seen mostly in women since the urinary tract is shorter in women. Women are 30 times more likely than men to experience UTI.

What are the Symptoms of UTI?

A sharp pain, burning sensation during urinating and general fatigue are seen commonly in people suffering from the disease. Here is a complete list of the symptoms of UTI:

  • Pain during urination

  • Increased need to urinate

  • Blood in urine

  • Cloudy urine

  • Dark-coloured urine

  • Pelvic pain

  • Pain near the rectum in men

  • Fever

  • Chills

  • Vomiting

  • Nausea

What Causes UTI?

The causes of UTI are varied. In the monsoon, the seasonal change becomes a perfect breeding ground for harmful bacteria to proliferate. Here are some of the common causes of UTI:

  • Sexual activity

  • Constipation

  • Unchecked diabetes

  • Going for long hours without peeing

  • Kidney stones

  • Using birth control

  • Not following menstrual hygiene

  • Not drinking enough water

How is UTI Treated?

UTI is generally treated with a batch of antibiotics to kill off the excessive bacteria in the urinary tract. Medicines such as ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin and others are generally used.

How To Prevent UTI

Most of the causes of UTI are preventable. To stay safe from this painful condition this monsoon, follow some of these good habits:

  • Drink enough water and stay hydrated

  • Follow hygiene during and after sex

  • Never hold in urine

  • Wipe using tissues only from front to back

  • Wear underwear in breathable fabric

  • Include probiotics in your diet

UTI or urinary tract infections, although painful, are mostly preventable. Practising good hygiene during the monsoons will help you steer clear of this painful condition.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 27, 2018 01:54 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).