Steer clear of bladder infection

Travelling to explore new cultures, traditions, and foods, sounds exciting. But our bladder always plays a spoilsport by forcing us to hunt for a restroom in unknown locations, which causes panic and stress. How to deal with the overactive bladders while travelling and also avoid contracting infections?

Bladder infection is a common form of urine infection also termed as cystitis. Women are more vulnerable to them than men. Studies indicate that half of all women are affected at least once by cystitis in their lifetime. It is not a complicated disease but if ignored it can turn out to be chronic and painful.

The bacteria found growing in the rectum easily rides to the bladder through the urethra causing the infection. Urine collected in bladder become breeding ground for bacteria. This often happens when people are travelling and find no place to relieve themselves.

Symptoms

The person may experience a constant urge to urinate, burning sensation, discomfort and pain while urinating. The frequency along with the pain in the lower abdomen, blood in the urine as well as foul odour are some more signs of the infection. Fever, nausea, vomiting and back pain are also a part of the symptoms which occur when complications turn up. Here are a few ways to steer clear of the infection:

* Drink water every two to three hours. This will help in flushing out any existing germs in the urine. Consumption of citrus fruit juices will also help.

* Women must use sanitary pads instead of tampons.

* Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes. Change of underwear is mandatory.

* Cleaning or wiping the front and the back with a clean cloth after urinating is mandatory as well.

(The author is consultant urologist & uro-oncologist, Fortis Hospital)