Urinary Tract Infections Causes: Does Holding Your Pee For Long Time Increase the Risk of UTI?

Urinary Tract Infections Explained: Dr. Siddharth Kumar, Consultant Urology, Bhagwan Mahavir Manipal Hospital, Ranchi, tells us everything that one needs to know about UTI and the several myths attached to it.

Causes of Urinary Tract Infections: At the turn of the century, India faced one of the world’s lowest levels of sanitation coverage, with just about 14% of its population using even basic sanitation facilities in 2000. The next twenty-five years has seen significant change yet with a population of over 145 crores, our country has a growing need for hygienic toilets, devoid of which cases of Urinary tract infections (UTIs) have become the order of the day. UTIs is one of the most common bacterial infections affecting people of all ages and genders. Because of the shorter urethra, women are the main victims of UTI, and men are neither immune. Any infection in men is considered a complicated UTI, which requires prompt medical intervention. Several misconceptions that circulate about UTIs, leads to delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Can Drinking Less Water Prevent Urinary Tract Infections?

There is a myth that less water intake can reduce the risk of developing UTI as the infection causes the individual to urinate often. Limitations in drinking an adequate amount of water can worsen the situation. The body’s hydration helps expel bacteria through the urinary passageways and promotes cure. It should be known that a healthy adult with no chronic kidney, heart, or liver problems may drink water up to around 3 litres per day. Further, those with chronic kidney disease who are engaged in dialysis must adhere to fluid instructions given by their doctor. The natural aim is to always ensure best hydration for health.

Does Drinking Cranberry Juice Cure UTI?

There is a common belief that cranberry juice can cure infections. Although cranberry juice can help reduce the recurrence, but it is not a substitute for antibiotics. An accurate diagnosis through urine microscopy and urine culture is important in detecting the bacteria causing infection. A fully prescribed antibiotics course is the only option to clear the infection. Self-medication, home remedies lead to incomplete treatment of UTI, which will lead to recurrence.

Does Holding Your Pee Increase the Risk of Urinary Tract Infections?

Some individuals have the habit of preventing urination for long hours to avoid using public lavatories. Such practice is a deterrent and allows bacteria the opportunity to grow and multiply inside the bladder, increasing the probability of infection. Emptying the bladder at intervals is an extremely important preventive measure against the formation of infections. Proper genital hygiene, urination at reasonable intervals, and hence control over chronic diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease can reduce the risk of any other infections. Bedridden and limited-mobility patients must also ensure good genital hygiene to avert any complications.

Warning Symptoms of UTI You Should Never Ignore

People have a misconception that UTI causes burning pain and serious discomfort, but symptoms may differ from person to person. Some people face:

Frequent urination
Abdominal pain
While some may experience loss of appetite
Increased sleep, or
No symptoms at all

This difference makes timely medical interventions vital, especially for people who are already suffering from several diseases. There is another myth, UTIs are sexually transmitted, sexual activity can increase the risk, merely most infections arise independently from naturally occurring bacteria.

People believe that once they develop a UTI, they will suffer from the same disease for their entire life. With proper medications, treatment and preventive measures, most people can recover fully and avoid recurrences. UTIs are common and can be managed easily when it is addressed in a correct manner.