Did you know that urinary tract infections (UTIs) account for almost 10-million doctor visits each year? Urinary tract infections are common among women, and nearly 80 percent will have a reoccurrence of the infection in their lifetime. Even though urinary tract infections are treatable, they can also be prevented. Physicians Urgent Care provides six tips that can help you reduce your risk of getting a urinary tract infection.
Both men and women are at risk of developing a urinary tract infection at least once in their lifetime. To help reduce that risk you should follow these tips:
- Stay hydrated with the right fluids. Drink plenty of water to help flush bacteria out of your urinary tract before an infection can begin.
- Don’t hold it. When nature calls respond and go. Holding your urine can cause damage to the lining of your bladder, making it more vulnerable to bacteria.
- Front to back wipe. After using the bathroom, be sure you are wiping yourself properly in order to keep bacteria from the rectum from reaching the genitals.
- Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes. Cotton is a breathable fabric that will help keep the area dry from moisture where bacteria grow.
- Strengthen your core. Working out your core muscles can help you avoid a lazy bladder. When you have a lazy bladder, you may not be able to empty your urine properly.
- Take Vitamin C. 1,000 milligrams of Vitamin C taken daily can help inhibit the growth of some bacteria by acidifying the urine.
A urinary tract infection happens when bacteria gets into the urinary tract and multiplies. There are three areas where the infection can start, including the bladder, kidneys or urethra. A few symptoms associated with a UTI are:
- Burning sensation when urinating
- Your urine appears cloudy
- Pelvic pain, in women
- Using the bathroom often, but only passing small amounts of urine
- Strong, persistent urges to urinate
If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important that you seek treatment from a healthcare professional as soon as possible. These types of infections come with serious consequences when left untreated that can be damaging to your kidneys. UTIs are usually effectively treated with antibiotics.
If you or a loved one has any of the symptoms of a urinary tract infection, visit your neighborhood Physicians Urgent Care in Brentwood (615-457-3864) or Franklin (615-472-1550), Tennessee. The wonderful physicians and staff are ready to assist and provide you with the care you need. No appointment is necessary, just hurry on in.