Research shows that about one in two women and one in 20 men will experience a UTI at some point in their lives as it affects millions annually. However, it could lead to serious complications if left untreated.
Consultant urogynaecologist Dr Tan Gaik Imm explained that UTIs can affect any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. She noted that the bladder is most commonly affected, which could lead to cystitis, the most frequent type of UTI, especially among women.
“Common symptoms of a UTI include a burning sensation during urination, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, and blood in the urine,” she said. In more severe cases, pain in the lower back or abdomen, fever, chills, and loss of appetite may occur, signalling the progression of the infection.
According to Tan, women are more susceptible to UTIs owing to their anatomy, including a shorter urethra and a closer distance between the urethra and anus, which facilitates the movement of bacteria into the bladder.
Suboptimal hygiene, such as wiping from back to front after using the toilet, could inadvertently introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, increasing infection risk; while certain contraceptive methods, such as spermicide-coated condoms, and conditions such as diabetes further elevate UTI risk by weakening the body’s ability to fight infections.
“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,” she added.
For individuals prone to recurrent UITs, Tan recommends urinating before and after sexual activity to help flush out bacteria. It is also crucial to manage vaginal infections as frequency of such conditions could increase the likelihood of UTIs.
Tan further highlighted that prevention begins with everyday habits. She advises taking showers over baths, as soaking could disrupt one’s natural bacterial balance. Maintaining good hygiene is vital, including practising proper handwashing and wearing breathable underwear.
She also recommends staying hydrated by drinking 1.5-2 litres of water daily as this helps flush bacteria from the urinary system, while regularly changing pads during menstruation reduces bacterial buildup.
“For women who enjoy swimming but are prone to UTIs, try to change out of wet bathing suits quickly as the humidity and moisture favours breeding of bacteria, increasing the 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 the symptoms improve,” she said.
While cranberry supplements are often touted as a natural remedy, Tan cautions that the juices in the market may lack sufficient cranberry content and could be loaded with sugar, which could be harmful to individuals with diabetes.
Finally, Tan highlighted that early detection is crucial for UTIs. A urine test is the primary diagnostic tool, though if the results are unclear, a urine culture may be conducted to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection.
Patients are advised to seek medical help if symptoms persist for more than three days, as untreated infections could spread and cause serious complications.