An overview of one of the most common infections affecting a majority of the female population all over the globe. That is Urinary tract infection commonly called as UTI.

UTI refers to infection of any part of the urinary system involving kidneys, bladder, ureters and urethra.

Women have 10-fold greater risk of developing UTI as compared to males the reason being: 

1) Women have short urethra approximately 4 cm

2) Close proximity to the anus

3) Sexual intercourse

4) Catheterization

Commonest organism involved is - E coli

  • Sexual intercourse: Recent rise in sexual activity or when women undergo intercourse for the 1st time have increased the risk of developing UTI, the term popularly referred as Honeymoon cystitis, as it increases ascent of organisms from the lower urethra into the bladder.
  • Full bladder: Majority of people have the habit of postponing the natural call of voiding, the reason can be workload, unclean or unavailability of washrooms.
  • Accumulation of urine or urine stasis favours risk of developing UTI.
  • Post Menopausal women: Menopause is associated with a dramatic fall in the production of oestrogen which causes a rise in vaginal pH. This makes the genitourinary tract more susceptible to infection. Post Menopausal women are therefore at increased risk of developing recurrent UTI along with Dyspareunia( painful sex), vaginal irritation, vaginal itching.
  • Conditions such as Diabetes is associated with a marked increase in developing UTI.

Symptoms of UTI include:

1) Increased frequency of urination with pain and urgency.

2) Burning pain while passing urine

3) Urine appearance: Cloudy, dark, bloody or strange smelling.

4) Pain or pressure in the back or lower abdomen.

5) Fever with chills, nausea, vomiting 

Investigations:

  • Urine examination: Microscopic and culture 
  • Blood examination
  • Sonography to rule out other causes of UTI

Management:

  • The very first thing when UTI is suspected is to maintain proper fluid balance. 
  • The habit of postponing natural call should be changed immediately.
  • Maintenance of proper perineal hygiene.

Homoeopathic medicines play a very important role in managing cases of UTI.It will not only give symptomatic relief but will also help in reducing the intensity, severity and frequency of attacks, as the approach towards treatment is more individualistic. These medicines are completely safe thereby healing the patient in a purely holistic way. Never ignore or overlook this problem because if the infection remains in the body it may flare up, affecting kidneys and developing other complications.