The discomfort and inconvenience of a urinary tract infection have been experienced by most persons during their lifetime.
Men and women show and experience different signs and symptoms.
Age also plays a role in the identification of this infection.
The person may have burning while urinating, an urge to pass urine often or might have to make a dash for the toilet to prevent wetting self.
In females the infection may be accompanied by itching due to a concurrent vaginal Infection. The urine will be cloudy.
Pregnant females are prone to UTIs because of the weight of the womb pressing against the bladder causing a shortening of the urethra. In addition the anus where the offending germ lives is in close proximity.
Men may have this problem because of an enlarged prostate or a sexually transmitted infection.
In young children a UTI may present as loss of appetite, diarrhea, fever and crying. In the newborn this will be identified by a low body temperature and jaundice.
Older folks will experience lethargy, senility and confusion, fever and incontinence.
TIPS AND WARNINGS
- This is a serious medical problem and should be assessed by a medical practitioner.
- At least 10 to 15 glasses of water taken daily will help to dilute the germs.
- Drink at least 2 glasses Cranberry, Sorrel or Coconut water daily
- Menopausal women should use Estrogen cream vaginally
- Infants should be breast-fed as the breast milk contains antioxidant properties.
- If the doctor prescribes Antibiotics, it is imperative that fluid intake be increased since the majority of these drugs that treat UTIs are sulphur-based. They need to be flushed from the system to prevent crystallization in the kidneys.
- Avoid tight underwear and pants, wear panties with cotton crotch
- Wash and dry underwear with heat for example the sun, a hot iron or dryer.
- Avoid using perfumes on vagina.
- Wipe from front to back after defecating to prevent wiping the germs into the urinary passage or vagina.
- Ascertain allergy to latex rubber or spermicides.
- Practice good personal hygiene by having a daily shower, changing underwear daily and washing the private parts after sex.
- Have 1 faithful sex partner.
- Sex partner should be treated to prevent getting back the infection.
- Avoid anal sex.
- Avoid douching except recommended by a doctor.
- Have a balanced diet daily with an adequate helping of fruit and vegetables at each meal.
- Adequate sleep and rest.
- Potassium Citrate mixture can be purchased at the drug store. Take 30 mls in a glass of water daily.
- Females on hormonal contraceptives experience a loss of Zinc and should replace this important antioxidant to prevent them becoming prone to infections.
- For long-term health benefits take a multivitamin/multimineral daily and additional antioxidants such as Vitamins ACE and Selenium.
- Encourage older folks to drink fluids often throughout the day.
Lilly is free lancer content builder she writes an articles for health related sites and magazines. She writes on women issues, gynecomastia, Mens health issues etc.