Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common bacterial infections diagnosed in persons of all ages, and they occur year-round. However, in the weeks preceding the monsoon, the incidence of UTIs has been on the rise when the change in weather and seasonal lifestyle habits create an environment conducive to the growth of these infections. This seasonal increase is not accidental. The switchover from a dry summer to a humid pre-monsoon climate favours bacterial growth, and minor changes in daily routines make one susceptible to infection. Knowing what causes this seasonal pattern enables a person to prevent the symptoms before they ever happen.
Rising humidity creates a favourable environment
The weeks preceding the onset of monsoon involve rising levels of humidity, changes in temperature and profuse sweating. Because of the increased moisture content in the body and skin, the area around the genitals becomes moist and warm, allowing the growth of bacteria more easily than ever. The causative agent of most uncomplicated UTIs, Escherichia coli, finds it easier to settle down in the periurethral area and move into the bladder. Environmental influences and behavioural factors lead to a seasonal variation in urinary infections. Staying wet due to sweating and rain, wearing tight and synthetic clothing, or poor hygiene of the genitals can facilitate the growth of bacteria.
Reduced hydration compromises the urinary tract's natural defence
Even though there is a gradual decrease in temperature prior to the onset of rain, fluid loss through sweat sometimes persists. Due to the relatively cooler climate compared to that of summer, most people unconsciously decrease their fluid intake. Hydration is very crucial in the protection of the urinary system, as a regular flow of urine flushes out any bacteria that may cause an infection. Insufficient intake of fluids causes concentration of the urine and infrequent flow of urine, and the bacteria can remain in the bladder for long periods. An increased intake of fluids is a simple way of preventing urinary infections.
Everyday habits may increase the risk
Certain everyday habits during the monsoon season can also increase the risk of urinary tract infections. With flooded roads and unpredictable weather, commute times can be longer, and many people don’t use public washrooms for hygiene reasons. This leads to prolonged urine retention, giving bacteria extended time to multiply within the bladder.
Likewise, the high humidity this time of year means clothes take longer to dry. It’s not uncommon for undergarments to stay damp for a long time after being caught in the rain or after a workout. Add to this the irregular washroom hygiene, in a busy monsoon schedule, and you have the perfect conditions for bacteria to thrive. None of these habits is directly responsible for infection, but altogether they increase the chances of bacteria entering the urethra. Monsoon months are a season of heightened vigilance for urinary health.
Women face a higher risk
Women are mostly affected due to the shorter urethra, which facilitates easier movement of bacteria to the bladder. Pregnancy, menopause, and diabetes make women more vulnerable to UTIs since these conditions change the body’s protective measures against UTIs. UTIs are also likely to occur during changes in seasons, especially in people with UT stones, structural problems in the urinary tract, and recurrent UTIs. Prompt diagnosis is essential for these patients since untreated UTIs can sometimes advance to kidney infection.
Early recognition and prevention are key
Symptoms such as a burning sensation while passing urine, increased frequency of urination, urgency, lower abdominal pain, cloudiness in urine or the presence of blood in urine require immediate medical attention. Procrastinating on seeking medical help can lead to recurrence of infections as well as inappropriate use of antibiotics, one of the leading causes of drug resistance.
However, some basic preventative practices are quite useful. Staying hydrated and preventing prolonged accumulation of urine, prompt removal of damp clothing, wearing clean underwear made of cotton, and proper hygiene can go a long way in preventing infections. People who suffer from recurrent UTIs need to be examined by a doctor to find out why they are predisposed to them.
As we enter the pre-monsoon season, small changes in our daily habits can make a difference to our urinary health. Understanding seasonal effects and seeking early medical treatment when symptoms appear can prevent uncomplicated infections from progressing to more serious urinary tract disease.
The author is a senior consultant urologist at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Chennai.
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK.
