Introduction: We have Dr Yashica Gudesar, Gynecologist, answering questions that you want to ask.
Well know and agree that a urinary traction infection (UTI) can be downright bothersome. It can be contracted in more ways than one and younger females are at a greater risk of catching it. But how do we contract it? What are the symptoms and how is it treated? We have Dr.Yashica Gudesar, a well-reputed Gynaecologist from Delhi, who has an experience of 20 years in this field, answer the most pertinent questions that are on our minds when we think UTI. The gynecologist in Dwarka is a registered member of D.M.C and M.C.I, Life Member at A.O.D.G, Life Member at F.O.G.S.I and Life Member at D.M.
UTI is an infection in our urinary system. A Urinary Tract Infection may involve any area of our urinary system, either urethra, uterus, bladder or kidneys. Symptoms typically include the urge to urinate often, experiencing pain while urinating and feeling itchiness or pain in the side or lower back. The good news is that most UTIs can be treated with antibiotics.
Question: What is UTI?
Dr Yashica Gudesar: Whenever a bacteria enters the urine tract, the response of the tract towards it is called Urinary Tract Infection. In the laboratory when the samples of urine are tested, the bacteria are found out as infections if the patient is symptomatic. There are more chances of UTI in females than males in general.
Q: What are the common symptoms of UTI?
Dr YG: Experiencing burning while urinating, urge to pee often and pain in the lower abdomen are some of the UTI symptoms. In addition, Dysuria (Inability to hold urine) is also a symptom of UTI.
Q: Is UTI related to age and gender?
Dr YG: Urinary infection is strongly related to age and sex. Here’s how… Both, in case of young girls and women who have reached menopause (forty years and above), due to changes in their vaginal flora Also, UTI happens when people are sexually active after marriage. In women, vaginal infection also often accompanies urinary infection.
Q: Why does UTI happen quite frequently in young girls?
Dr YG: Urine infection in females is quite common because of frequent washing of genitals, tight clothing and cleaning with antiseptics often can damage the vaginal flora. Touching the genitals with dirty hands after motions is another reason. Guidance from a good doctor is very necessary to educate teens and young adults about UTI.
Q: How should UTI be treated during pregnancy?
Dr YG: Genital hygiene, drinking enough water and frequent passing of urine can help prevent UTI during pregnancy. In order to prevent acute UTI, consulting a doctor is a must.
Q: Is it possible to have UTI without getting a burning during urinating?
Dr YG: Yes, it is possible and it is often found during pregnancy. Also, people who have a medical history of kidney stones must also get themselves tested.
Q: Do food habits affect UTI?
Dr YG: According to Ayurveda, intake of excessive salty and spicy foods may cause burning sensation In the urine, which can be treated by drinking water or anything that has a cold effect, which will reduce the burning sensation.
Q: Why is UTI common in women reaching menopause?
Dr YG: The common reason is Atrophic Vaginitis, which cause the walls in vagina to get thin. Atrophic Vaginitis may cause burning sensation that feels like itchiness.
Q: How common is UTI in males?
Dr YG: Generally, the ratio of UTI in males is very less comparative to females. However, if diagnosed then it is termed as complex UTI, which needs to be treated medically.
Q: Are kidney stones related to UTI?
Dr YG: Not Always. Kidney stone causes small particles to pass through urethra and erode it, which causes pain. However, it need not necessarily be UTI. A consultation with a doctor is recommended in such a case.
Q: Does using public washrooms cause UTI?
Dr YG: No, using public washrooms does not cause UTI, provided they are clean and hygienic. Using Indian toilets reduces the risk of any UTI, to be more specific.
Q: What is Alkasol syrup and why is it used?
Dr YG: Alkazol is used to reduce the burning sensation by alkalizing the PH level of urine.
Q: Who should be consulted in case I am suffering from UTI?
Dr YG: According to the specialists, a proper guidance is needed in order to educate ourselves regarding urinary infections. Visiting a good gynecologist, maintaining a good hygiene can make a better change.