An intact urinary system is paramount for general healthy well-being, playing a key functional role in removing waste and regulating body fluids and electrolytes. Yet, unfortunately, urinary health is neglected until problems such as UTIs (urinary tract infections) occur. UTIs can lead to unbearable pain and discomfort in normal life, but they are easily avoidable if given with adequate care. Following is some practical advice for keeping out UTIs and maintaining good urinary health.
1. Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration is one of the easiest and most important measures for urinary health. Sufficient fluid intake facilitates the elimination of toxins and bacteria from the urinary system and helps reduce UTI infections. A general guideline is to aim for 8-10 glasses of water per day, but this is a flexible goal that will depend upon your level of physical activity, heat exposure, and individualized health conditions.
2. Practice Proper Hygiene
Maintaining good hygiene can prevent urinary tract infections. Women need to clean from front to back to not spread bacteria to the urethra. Continuously changing sanitary products and wearing breathable, cotton-rich underwear are also useful for lowering the risk of infections.
3. Watch Your Diet
A healthy diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is conducive to urinary health. Foods like cranberries, blueberries, and citrus fruits contain compounds that promote urinary tract health by preventing bacteria from adhering to the bladder walls. The reduction of salt and caffeine also helps protect kidney health.
4. Don’t Delay Bathroom Visits
To prevent the accumulation of bacteria and urinary retention, it is important to empty your bladder regularly. Avoid holding in urine for prolonged periods, as it can increase the risk of infections and even bladder or kidney issues over time.
5. Exercise Regularly
Exercise helps maintain healthy blood circulation, kidney function, and weight control – all leading to a decreased load on the urinary system. Targeted muscle movements, like Pelvic floor muscle exercises using Kegels, are also useful for training the muscles for urethral control.
6. Manage Chronic Conditions
Diabetic and hypertensive disease can impact kidney function and urinary health. Preventing and managing these diseases by routine examination, proper medication, and lifestyle changes is of great importance to prevent damage to the urinary system.
7. Be Mindful of Medication Use
Over-the-counter analgesics (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin), when taken in excess, can also cause renal overload. It is important to never use any medication without the supervision of a health care professional, particularly if you have any existing kidney-related or urinary conditions.
8. Seek Medical Advice When Needed
Signs and symptoms such as painful urination, haematuria, or a recurrent urge to urinate must not be overlooked. If you experience frequent UTIs, severe pain, or other symptoms like blood in the urine, consult a urologist in Kerala immediately. Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure effective treatment. Early intervention can avoid the progression of trivial problems into grave complications.
Expert Care When You Need It
With a team of highly acclaimed urologists and nephrologists and a reputation for reliable healthcare spanning more than 90 years, makes Tiruvalla Medical Mission (TMM) a highly trusted healthcare provider. Using highly advanced diagnostic facilities with modern technology, TMM is available to treat a broad spectrum of urinary health issues. Our commitment to quality healthcare is rooted in a legacy of compassionate service, ensuring that every patient receives personalized attention. Whether you’re seeking preventive guidance or specialized treatment, TMM’s multi-specialty expertise is here to support you.
Incorporating these tips into your daily routine can significantly contribute to keeping UTIs away and maintaining a healthy urinary system. And if you ever have concerns, seeking professional advice at TMM is always just a consultation away.
