Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common conditions affecting millions of people worldwide, caused by the invasion and growth of bacteria in the urinary tract.
These bacteria can enter the urinary tract through the urethra and multiply in the bladder, kidneys or other parts of the urinary system, resulting in symptoms such as painful urination, increased urinary frequency, urgency to urinate and, in more severe cases, fever and general malaise.
To combat urinary tract infections, several tips can be followed:
- Adequate hydration: Drinking enough water helps to dilute urine and flush bacteria out of the urinary tract, thus reducing the risk of infection.
- Maintain good hygiene: It is important to clean yourself properly after using the toilet to prevent the spread of bacteria.
- Proper clothing: Wearing cotton underwear and avoiding tight-fitting clothing reduces the risk of infection.
- Rest and self-care: Getting adequate rest and avoiding stress can help the immune system fight infection.
- Medical evaluation: In recurrent or complicated cases, it is important to seek evaluation by a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of UTIs and receive appropriate treatment. In addition, in recurrent UTIs, the use of autovaccines, where infection-causing bacteria are removed and introduced into the patient to stimulate an immune response, has been studied. This approach aims to strengthen the body’s defences against the specific bacteria responsible for recurrent infections.
It is important to note that this advice is preventive and may not be sufficient to treat an existing UTI. In case of UTI symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical attention for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Bibliography:
Foxman, B. (2002). Epidemiology of urinary tract infections: incidence, morbidity, and economic costs. American Journal of Medicine, 113(1), 5-13.
Hooton, T. M., Bradley, S. F., Cardenas, D. D., Colgan, R., Geerlings, S. E., Rice, J. C., … & Saint, S. (2010). Diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of catheter-associated urinary tract infection in adults: 2009 International Clinical Practice Guidelines from the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 50(5), 625-663.
