The pressure that social media is putting on us as the 'kawaida mwananchi' is immense. Trying to be something you are not is taking the day each day. If you and I are not well informed, we might fall in the trap of hating and undermining ourselves without knowing most people are living a lie out her. Well, Risper Faith who is a Kenya celebrity has been accused and is currently on the spotlight for photo-shopping her facial structure on a photo of the US based curvy digital content creator who goes by the name Ms. Kristine. In the year 2016, Kristine uploaded a perectly shot picture of herself in a black skirt and top that was neatly tucked into the skirt. To add some spice, the whole outfit was groomed by a shade of green coat which perfectly perfected the look. Risper, however took the exact picture, did some editing including darkening the black skirt and top and literally photo-shopped her face into the Kristine's picture retaining all her jewelry! This could not go un...
Anyone who has had Urinary Tract Infections knows how painful it can be. Those who have undergone recurrent infections know how frustrating it can get.
Bacteria from the bowl are the most common cause of Urinary Tract Infections though viruses and fungi can also cause the infection. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) affects either the kidneys, urethra, ureters or bladder. Most infections involve the urethra and bladder which makes up the lower urinary track.
Urinary Tract Infection is likely to develop in women than in men. The bladder infection can be uncomfortable and painful but if the infection spreads to the kidneys, serious implications may result. Urinary Tract Infections are normally treated with antibiotics.
With that said,let us learn the symptoms, causes, remedies and risk factors of this infection.
SYMPTOMS
Common symptoms include:
1.A burning sensation when passing urine
2.Frequent urination
3.Cloudy or dark urine
4.Strong urine odor
5.Pelvic pain
CAUSES
The urinary system is built to keep off the external invaders but sometimes the guards fail and the bacteria finds its way to the urethra through the urethra tract and later to the bladder where they grow into multiples hence causing full blown infection in the urinary tract.
These are some causes of the UTI in women:
1. Infection of urethra
Also known as urethritis. This infection occurs when the bacteria spreads from the anus to the urethra. Sexually Transmitted Infections can also causes this kind of infection.
2. Infection of the bladder
It's also called cystitis. It is caused by a bacteria which is mostly found in the gastrointestinal tract although other bacteria can cause it. Intercourse may cause cystitis but all women are at risk considering the fact that the proximity of urethra, anus and urethra opening is minimal.
RISK FACTORS
The risk factors include:
1. Female anatomy
Women have a shorter urethra compared to men implying that the bacteria have a shorter distance to travel in men that in women.
2. Sexual activity
Sexually active women tend to be more infected with Urinary Tract Infection than the inactive ones. Multiple partners or a new partner also increases the risk.
3. Births controls
Women that use diaphragms and spermicidal agents are at a higher risk of getting the infection.
4. Menopause
Declined estrogen levels after menopause changes the urinary tract hence increasing the vulnerability to the infection.
Others are;
5.Urinary tract blockages
6.Urinary track abnormalities
7.Recent urinary procedure
REMEDIES
While antibiotics are known to be most efficient and fastest way to treat Urinary Tract Infections, there are some home remedies that you can try to treat these infections. These are as shown below:
1.Increase Vitamin C intake
This intake is thought to increase the acidity of the urine hence killing the bacteria that cause infection. Studies have shown that Vitamin C help in cutting down the risk of contracting a UTI. Fruits and vegetables such as oranges, grapes, kiwi, red peppers etc should be in larger amount in your meals.
2.Drinking lots of water
Staying hydrated and meeting your body fluid need is really crucial in flushing out the harmful bacteria from the system. About 8 glasses a day will do you good.
3.Cranberry juice
Cranberries have been used to prevent UTI for generations. It has also been known to promote a non- conducive environment for bacteria that cause UTIs by sticking to the urinary tract walls. The berry can be taken as a fruit or as an unsweetened juice.
4.Eating garlic
Garlic extract may be effective in reducing the bacteria that causes UTIs.
5.Wearing cotton inner wears
Synthetic fibers such as nylon can trap moisture and allow bacteria growth. Go for the cotton.
6.Not holding it
Do not postpone visiting the bathroom as this gives room for the bacteria to grow and multiply resulting to an infection. As soon as you feel you should drop it, then go drop it. Do not wait!
7.Practicing Healthy Habits
After using the washroom, wipe from front to back, otherwise, bacteria will spread to the urinary tract hence increasing the risk of the Urinary Tract Infections.
Avoid using spermicide since it has been linked to increased cases of Urinary Tract Infections.
Peeing after intercourse can reduce the risk of Urinary Tract Infections by preventing the spread of the infection.
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