Why do UTIs spiral during the monsoon? Here’s all you need to know

What is UTI?

It is an infection when bacteria tends to get access into the urinary system and starts growing and multiplying. The bacteria enters through the opening of the urethra and moves upward into one’s urinary tract. In serious cases, the infection may travel up to the kidneys and damage it if left untreated.

Why do infections spiral during the monsoon?

The monsoon is hot and humid at the same time. People often experience increased sweating and reduced fluid intake, both of which can contribute to dehydration. This reduces urine output, causing bacteria to stay longer in the urinary tract, increasing the risk of infection. Additionally, damp clothing from the rain and sweating can promote bacterial growth around the genital area, further elevating the risk of UTI.

Poor sanitary conditions and water contamination are more prevalent during the monsoon. Contaminated water can introduce pathogens to the urinary tract, especially if hygiene practices are compromised. Also, the frequency of hospital visits tends to rise during monsoon due to various illnesses, increasing the chances of hospital-acquired UTIs.

Why are women affected more than men?

This is because the urethral opening of women is very close to that of the anal opening and hence it is easy for germs and other harmful micro-organisms to affect the urethra if proper hygiene is not followed. Second, the urethra in women being shorter than in men, the rate of infection increases.

What are signs and symptoms of UTIs?

Pain and burning sensation during urination, uncontrollable and frequent urge to urinate, dark or foul-smelling urine, fatigue, acute pain in the lower abdomen and pelvis, fever, nausea and vomitting.

How to treat UTIs?

Your doctor will take a call based on your urine culture, then recommend antibiotics based on the findings and check which antibiotic works best against the bacteria responsible for your infection. Be sure to follow the doctor’s advisory and take the full course of antibiotics. Do not discontinue even if you feel better. Not completing your course may expose you to a relapse. Then it may be more challenging to treat it. Sometimes you may need IV drips.

How to prevent infections?

Keep yourself hydrated so that your body can flush out toxins and bacteria, practise good personal hygiene, and ensure your drinking water is safe. Wearing dry, clean clothing and promptly changing out of wet attire can help reduce the incidence of UTIs.