Bladder infection, or cystitis, is a condition often considered a winter worry, associated with the colder climate. However, contrary to popular belief, women often face urinary tract infections even during the summer months when the sun is warm, and the weather is hot. This article addresses the risks of bladder infections in the summer and offers thoughtful advice on how to cope with bladder troubles.
Risk factors for bladder infection during the summer
The summer weather brings several changes that can increase the risk of bladder infection. Warm and humid weather is practically an invitation for microbes, including E. coli, which are frequent causes of cystitis. As temperatures rise, people spend more time near bodies of water, where the moist environment can promote the growth and spread of bacteria.
We may neglect to dry and change our swimwear after a long day at the beach or by the pool. Wet clothes create an ideal environment for bacteria, which can multiply quickly and cause infection. Therefore, it’s important to change clothes after swimming.
It’s vital to monitor fluid intake on hot summer days to support urinary tract health. The body’s need for fluids increases to compensate for the increased fluid loss due to higher temperatures. A lack of fluids can affect the condition of the urinary tract mucosa and promote bacterial activity.
Summer is a time when people’s physical activity and often sexual activity increase, both of which can affect urinary tract health. It is important to be aware and apply preventive hygiene measures to keep the intimate area healthy.
Preventive measures against bladder infection
Preventing bladder infection during the summer months is a key issue that requires awareness and preventive behavior. The following recommendations can help reduce the risk of developing bladder infections.
Ensuring sufficient fluid intake
With elevated temperatures, it’s crucial for the body to get enough fluids. Regular water consumption helps clean the urinary tract and supports its health. Water is the best choice, but caffeine-free herbal teas can also be beneficial. Feel free to add lemon to your water!
Personal hygiene after enjoying water activities
Quickly changing into dry clothes after swimming or exercising can help reduce the risk of bacteria growth due to moisture. It is also important to urinate regularly to promote the cleaning of the urinary tract.
Conscious food choices
Foods that can irritate the urinary tract mucosa, such as spicy dishes and acidic fruits, should be limited in consumption. Also, watch the impact of caffeine and alcohol and make sure they don’t reduce overall water consumption.
Proper clothing
To keep the body dry, prefer underwear made of natural fibers, like cotton. This helps prevent excess moisture and supports the skin’s natural breathability.
Home remedies for treating bladder infection
Here are some ways to alleviate the symptoms of bladder infection and improve overall well-being:
Heat therapy, such as a warm bath or a heating pad on the lower abdomen, can help relieve pain and cramps caused by bladder infection. Warmth helps relax the muscles around the bladder, reducing discomfort.
During a bladder infection, it’s important to give the body enough time to rest and recover. Stress and fatigue can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight the infection.
Continuing to consume enough fluids is important to help flush the urinary tract and wash out bacteria. Water is the best choice, but caffeine-free beverages and herbal teas can also be used.
Prevention and alleviation of bladder infection may be aided by a special herbal tea intended for urinary tract health, available at pharmacies. Such tea typically contains a blend of bearberry, willow herb, chamomile blossoms, shepherd’s purse herb, and birch leaves. These plants are known for their anti-inflammatory and urinary tract cleansing properties, which can help alleviate symptoms and prevent new infections.
D-mannose: an effective natural solution for cleansing the urinary tract
D-mannose is one of the most effective natural agents for removing bacteria from the urinary tract. Although D-mannose is naturally found in many fruits, like cranberries, the content there is very small (0.04%). Therefore, simply eating fruits is not enough to achieve a sufficient amount of D-mannose for effective bacterial flushing. The recommended daily dose of D-mannose starts at 500 mg, but larger doses, even up to 2000 mg per day, are considered most effective.
D-mannose acts as a trap, sticking to the urinary tract mucosa, where bacteria like E. coli have colonized the bladder walls. Once bacteria are attached to D-mannose, they can be naturally flushed out of the body through urination. Taking D-mannose before potential risk situations, like swimming, can help prevent further bacterial movement into the bladder. Additionally,
D-mannose does not create bacterial resistance, making it a safe option even for less frequent use. Lotos Pharma offers Soluro DUO®, ensuring the availability of high-quality D-mannose, thus supporting urinary tract health.
Bladder infection can be a troublesome condition, especially during the summer months when elevated temperatures and a more active lifestyle increase the risk of infections. Understanding how to protect oneself from bladder infections and applying effective relief methods is crucial for every woman’s health during this time. By following simple preventive steps, such as adequate fluid intake, personal hygiene, and the use of natural remedies like D-mannose, the possibility of developing bladder infections can be significantly reduced, improving quality of life. It’s also important to pay attention to the signals your body gives and not to underestimate the symptoms of bladder infection, consulting a doctor if the condition does not improve or recurs frequently.
