KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 17 – As one of the most common infections globally, urinary tract infections (UTIs) affect millions of people every year, particularly women.
According to the research, around one in every two women and one in 20 men will experience UTI at some point in their lives.
While many cases of UTIs can be treated with a simple course of antibiotics, more complicated infections can lead to severe health concerns, including life-threatening urosepsis.
Dr Tan Gaik Imm, consultant urogynaecologist at Sunway Medical Centre, offers her expert insight into the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures for UTIs, along with practical advice for reducing the risk of recurrent infections to understand this common but often misunderstood condition better.
Understand UTIs And Its Warning Signs
“As the name suggests, a UTI can affect any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra,” explained Dr Tan.
“The bladder is the most commonly affected organ, leading to cystitis, which is the most frequent type of UTI, especially among women.
“In severe cases, the infection can ascend to the kidney. Common symptoms of a UTI include a burning sensation during urination, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, and blood in the urine.
Many individuals also experience a persistent and strong urge to urinate frequently, often feeling unable to hold their urine,” Dr Tan continued.
“In more severe cases, the infection may spread to the kidneys or the bladder, indicated by pain in the lower back or tummy area, where the kidneys and bladders are located. The pain can be accompanied by fever, chills, shivering at night or loss of appetite,” Dr Tan shared.
Key Risk Factors And Prevention Tips For UTIs
One of the reasons UTIs are more common in women is anatomical. “Women are at a higher risk due to the short length of the urethra and also the shorter distance between the urethra and anus, making it easier for bacteria to travel from the gut and ascend into the bladder,” Dr. Tan explained.
Dr Tan explained that several factors can increase the likelihood of developing a UTI, particularly in women.
“One of the most common mistakes is suboptimal hygiene,” she said, pointing out that wiping from back to front after using the toilet can inadvertently introduce bacteria into the urinary tract.
In addition, she notes that certain contraceptive methods, such as spermicide-coated condoms, create an environment where bacteria can thrive.
For those living with diabetes, the risk is heightened further, as the body’s ability to fend off infections is compromised.
“Postmenopausal women are particularly vulnerable because the natural dryness that occurs in the vaginal and urinary tracts can upset the delicate balance of protective bacteria.”
These factors, she stresses, are key in understanding why some individuals are more prone to recurrent UTIs and recognising them is crucial for prevention.
For those prone to recurring UTIs, Dr. Tan advises simple preventive measures.
“Urinating both before and after sexual activity may help reduce the chances of bacteria entering the urinary tract,” she suggested.
“Frequent vaginal infections may also increase UTI risk, so it’s important to manage both issues concurrently.”
Everyday Habits That Make A Difference
Prevention often begins with daily habits. “Showers are preferable to long baths,” said Dr. Tan, adding that soaking in water for extended periods can disrupt the natural bacterial balance.
Additionally, she recommends:
- Staying hydrated by drinking 1.5 to 2 litres daily to flush bacteria from the urinary system.
- Changing pads or liners regularly during menstruation to reduce bacterial buildup. For menstrual cup users, washing your hands and the cup before and after inserting or removing it helps minimise the risk of infections.
- Proper hand hygiene includes washing hands after using the toilet and before, as hands can carry bacteria from surfaces touched throughout the day.
- Wear breathable underwear such as cotton to help maintain better hygiene and reduce the risk of infections.
For women who often experience UTIs but enjoy swimming, try to change out of wet bathing suits soon after swimming, as the humidity and moisture favours breeding of bacteria, increasing chances of UTI.
If this does not resolve the issue, try changing swimming venues or avoid using the pool for a few weeks, even if it is chlorinated, to determine if their symptoms improve.
Trial-And-Error Approaches To Prevent UTIs
There’s also been growing interest in cranberry supplements as a natural remedy for UTI prevention. However, Dr. Tan suggests approaching this with caution.
“Cranberry capsules can sometimes help, but their effectiveness varies, with success rates hovering around 50 to 60 per cent.
“Not all cranberry products are created equal. Some cranberry juices in the market may lack sufficient cranberry content and could be loaded with sugar, which can concern people with diabetes.”
The key to preventing recurrent UTIs may be combining personalised approaches, including trial-and-error with supplements and adopting better hygiene practices.
She also shares that one misconception about UTIs is that half-squatting at the toilet can help prevent them.
“This is not a good practice, as it is essential to sit properly or full squat on a squat toilet to relax the pelvic floor and ensure complete bladder emptying,” explained Dr Tan.
Importance Of Early Detection And Diagnosis Before UTIs Turn Into Something Worse
Early detection is crucial for urinary tract infections (UTIs). According to Dr Tan, timely diagnosis can make all the difference in preventing a mild infection from becoming a serious health issue.
“A urine test is the primary method used to detect infections. If the results are unclear or symptoms persist, a urine culture may be conducted to identify the specific bacteria involved.”
This step is essential, as it helps doctors determine whether antibiotics are necessary and guides them in choosing the most effective treatment.
She emphasises that treating a UTI is a race against time; the longer you wait, the greater the risk of the infection spreading to other parts of the urinary system or, worse, the bloodstream.
“Often, when patients first experience symptoms like a burning sensation during urination, they attempt to self-manage by drinking more water or trying over-the-counter remedies,” noted Dr Tan.
While these home remedies might offer temporary relief, they may not always get to the root of the problem and can’t fully treat the infection.
Dr. Tan stresses the importance of seeking medical attention if symptoms persist for more than two to three days.
Ignoring these symptoms or delaying treatment could lead to severe complications, such as the infection spreading to the kidneys or even the bloodstream — a potentially life-threatening condition.
“Early diagnosis and timely treatment are your best defence against a UTI escalating into something far more dangerous,” added Dr Tan.
