Summer triggers bladder infections: tips to avoid cystitis

Some people return from vacation every summer with memories of wonderful days of rest, but also with an unexpected and uncomfortable bladder infection, commonly known as cystitis, although they are not exactly the same . Although this type of infection is not exclusive to the summer season , the truth is that during these weeks, a series of ideal circumstances occur for bacteria to proliferate freely in the bladder area.

Specifically, "we tend to be more dehydrated due to increased sweating, which decreases the frequency of urination, we spend more time in wet clothing and in cold environments due to air conditioning," which translates, according to Dr. Javier de la Riva de la Viña, urologist at Vitas Madrid La Milagrosa University Hospital , into a significant increase in cases of cystitis.

In addition, "in addition to all this, since it is a period of rest, the possibility of having sexual relations increases, and some women are very susceptible to so-called postcoital cystitis ," the expert adds.

If, despite this host of contributing factors, you still haven't suffered an episode of cystitis , it's likely you're unaware of its symptoms. The most common, according to the doctor, are "burning when urinating (dysuria), frequent urination (pollakiuria), urgency, and it can also be accompanied by the presence of blood in the urine (hematuria)." However, he also emphasizes that "there is no single symptomatology to define cystitis. Rather, it's a set of symptoms that, when they appear together, guide the diagnosis."

In fact, any of the symptoms mentioned above "can occur in bladder conditions other than cystitis. Therefore, it's important to receive a proper medical evaluation and, in many cases, perform a urine test to confirm the diagnosis ," the expert points out.

On the other hand, it is worth clarifying the difference between cystitis and urinary tract infection , since, although “in common practice both terms are used interchangeably to refer to a lower urinary tract infection, especially when it affects the bladder, the truth is that this is a mistake due to the fact that most cystitis cases are usually of infectious origin ,” explains de la Riva, who reminds us that “the term cystitis literally means inflammation of the bladder, and this can occur with or without a bacterial infection.”

What happens if treatment is not started?

Most cases of cystitis occur in women, which is due "to a purely anatomical reason. The female urethra is noticeably shorter than the male urethra, which favors the migration of bacteria from the perineal or external genital region to the bladder," the doctor explains.

On the other hand, and focusing on treatment, "it's important to know that urinary tract infections should only be treated if they cause clinical symptoms. A urinary tract infection that shows up in a blood test but doesn't cause symptoms should not be treated with antibiotics," the urologist points out.

The preventive power of blueberries is due to their contribution of proanthocyanidins

However, "if it's a symptomatic urinary tract infection and we delay treating it , it can increase the risk of hematuria and, in some cases, the infection can affect the upper urinary tract, producing acute pyelonephritis. This complication can cause high fever, lower back pain , and require longer antibiotic treatment, and even hospitalization if the general condition is affected," he warns.

Prevention inside and outside the pantry

To avoid reaching these extremes, and even to avoid contracting the infection, a series of hygienic and dietary measures can be adopted. These measures can be applied both in winter and summer, but are especially important during this time of year. "The main ones are: avoiding constipation , maintaining adequate hydration by drinking enough fluids, urinating frequently, even if you don't feel the urge to do so, and urinating before and after sexual intercourse," the doctor explains. He adds: "Furthermore, in summer, it is advisable to avoid staying in a wet swimsuit for long periods of time and to take extreme care of intimate hygiene."

In summer it is advisable not to stay in a wet swimsuit for a long time.

In addition to adopting protective habits, diet can also be an effective tool to act as a barrier against cystitis. Among the most effective foods for this, De la Riva highlights cranberries . "There are studies that show that they prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall," she argues.

“Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C , foods high in omega-3 fatty acids , uva ursi, and dandelion, taken as an infusion, may also play a role in preventing urinary tract infections,” the doctor adds.

Protective nutrients

The preventive power of cranberries "is due to their contribution of proanthocyanidins , which prevent and hinder the adhesion of bacteria to the bladder wall, thereby reducing the possibility of infection," the expert explains. He continues: " Vitamin C helps acidify urine and prevent bacterial growth. Omega-3 acids and the herbs described appear to have diuretic properties, promoting the elimination of bacteria through urine, and anti-inflammatory properties, preventing irritation of the urinary tract."

Therefore, consuming these foods can help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections , especially concentrated cranberry juice, which is usually taken in pill or syrup form. "The recommended dose would be a daily dose for at least four months to achieve a significant preventive effect. Afterward, the maintenance dose can be reduced," notes the doctor, who also advises avoiding "spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and acidic foods because they can irritate the bladder and worsen symptoms."

Furthermore, it recommends “a fluid intake of about 2-2.5 liters per day. This includes all liquids you drink, not just water. If you drink bottled water , make sure it's low in minerals. It's also good to drink herbal teas, as they increase your fluid intake. Two options are dandelion and uva ursi, both of which may have some benefits, although there's no clear scientific evidence.”