How to Prevent a UTI
4/24/2023
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common bacterial infections in the United States, resulting in seven million office visits to healthcare providers each year. Additionally, 50 percent of women and 3 percent of men worldwide will experience a UTI in their lifetime. While most UTIs are not serious, they can cause discomfort, and if left untreated could lead to kidney damage or sepsis.
UTIs are an infection in any part of the urinary system including kidneys, bladder and urethra, often caused by bacteria, like E. coli, entering through the urethra. Symptoms include painful urination, the frequent urge to urinate and pressure in the abdomen or groin.
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“Anyone who has had a UTI knows how uncomfortable they can be,” says Jennifer Shue, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, at Keys Medical Group – Primary Care at Searstown. “While there are steps you can take to help prevent a UTI, the only treatment is antibiotics prescribed by a doctor.”
Shue suggests these habits to help reduce the risk of developing a UTI:
- Empty your bladder completely and frequently: Holding urine for long periods of time can increase the risk of bacteria accumulating in the bladder. Also void after sexual activity.
- Wipe correctly: To avoid bacteria entering the urethra, always wipe from front to back after using the restroom.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking a lot, especially water, helps flush out bad bacteria that can cause infection. Oppositely, avoid liquids that can irritate the bladder like alcohol and excessive caffeine.
- Avoid irritations: Scented feminine hygiene products and sprays can irritate the urethra, increasing the risk of developing an infection.
- Try cranberries: Cranberry juice is often associated with relief from UTIs and according to the National Health Institute, cranberries contain the compound proanthocyanidins that can help prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of the bladder.
If you are experiencing symptoms of a UTI, or want to book a wellness visit with a primary care physician, visit KeysMedicalGroup.com. Keys Medical Group – Primary Care at Searstown is open seven days a week and provides general medical care and management of chronic health conditions for patients 18 years of age and older. Providers are Jennifer Shue, APRN, and Courtney Bonner, D.O.
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