The rainy season brings a cool, pleasant air but also poses many potential health risks, including urinary tract infections (UTI) - a common disease that affects the urethra, bladder, urethra and sometimes the kidneys.
Why does the rainy season increase the risk of urinary tract infections?
Dr. Malla devi Vinaya, general practitioner at Apollo Clinic (India) shared: The rainy season increases the risk of urinary tract infections (UTI) due to the combination of high humidity, poor personal hygiene and polluted water sources. These factors facilitate bacteria's growth and penetration into the urinary system, especially in women and young children."
The high humidity during the rainy season makes the closed area always humid, creating an ideal environment for bacteria such as E.coli to grow. In addition, sweating a lot, wearing warm or tight clothes, and not changing underwear regularly also increase the risk of infection, according to Only My Health.
Pollution and poor hygiene are major causes
During the rainy season, domestic water sources are susceptible to contamination due to flooding, especially in areas with poor drainage systems. Using unclean water to shower and clean the closed area can get bacteria into the urine, short-term paths to the bladder and easily cause inflammation.
Who is most susceptible to urinary tract infections?
Women, children and the elderly are the most at risk. Women with short urinaries and near the anus are susceptible to bacterial invasion. Children often do not know how to clean properly, while the elderly can suffer from underlying diseases such as diabetes and urination, increasing the risk of UTI.
A 2019 study in the journal Therapeutic Advances in Urology also showed that women who have regular sex, hormonal changes (menopause) or have had UTI many times are more likely to have recurrence in humid weather conditions.
Symptoms and prevention
Common symptoms of UTI:
Feeling of continuous urinary union pain but little urination
Pain or burning when urinating
Moody urine, foul or mixed with blood
Lower or pelvic pain
Light fever, fatigue
Effective preventive measures:
Drink enough water (at least 2 liters/day) to detoxify
Urinary incontinence, intolerance
Wear dry, breathable clothes - avoid tight clothes
industry cleaning from front to back after going to the toilet
Avoid using contaminated water for personal hygiene
Wash thoroughly and change linen regularly
