Rainy-Season UTI Surge: Why Urology Patients Need Extra Precautions

The former description of the increase in urinary tract infections (also referred to as UTIs) during a particular time of year (the raining season) indicates that UTIs occur all over the planet and are more common among female patients than male patients. All parts of the year will have UTIs, but many urinary tract infections are diagnosed at a much higher rate than at any other time of year. 

The rainy season has been labelled by people all over the world as the time of year when there is the highest number of urinary tract infection cases, which is, therefore, called the Rainy-Season UTI Surge. There are many different factors that contribute to the dramatic increase in the number of UTI cases during monsoon season, including changes in climate and weather, different environmental factors, and the fact that people have more exposure to bacteria that may infect their urinary tract during this time of year. This seasonal pattern is commonly recognized as the Rainy-Season UTI Surge.

Factors That Drive Increased Rates of UTIs in the Monsoon Season

Every season has its distinct environmental conditions and influences on bacteria. When there are heavy rains, drinking water supplies can become contaminated and increase exposure to bacteria that can lead to infection. In addition, wet conditions will often lead to poor drying or cleaning of certain areas, thus contributing to increased incidence of urinary tract infections during the rainy season, which enhances the overall incidence of the Rainy-Season UTI Surge.

It is very important to recognize and identify UTI symptoms as they begin during the rainy season. Below are some of the most common symptoms of urinary tract infections (UTI) during the rainy season:

• Increased frequency of urination
• Pain or burning sensation upon urination
• Cloudy or pungent-smelling urine
• Pain in the lower abdomen and/or back
• Low-grade fever and fatigue

Lifestyle Factors Associated With Urinary Tract Infections

The likelihood of developing urinary tract infections during the rainy season can be significantly increased by many of the behaviours and habits commonly experienced by people living in areas affected by heavy rainfall throughout the year, including:

Extended exposure to moisture from clothing means longer periods of time when urine cannot be eliminated from the body. This long retention period creates an environment conducive to the rapid growth and reproduction of bacteria in the genital region.

Lower daily fluid intake, which is more common during the rainy months due to cooler ambient temperatures, results in greater concentrations of urine; therefore, allowing bacteria present in urine more time to proliferate.

Getting sick or developing an illness from eating contaminated food from street vendors during the rainy months is another risk factor leading to higher incidence of urinary tract infections.

The sedentary lifestyle associated with decreased outdoor physical activity will reduce metabolic progression and therefore result in a slower rate of urine elimination.

All the lifestyle factors mentioned above help to explain why the incidence of urinary tract infections is on the rise among urological patients during the rainy season, a pattern often referred to as the Rainy-Season UTI Surge.

Preventative Measures You Can Take to Protect Yourself During the Rainy Season

To greatly reduce your chances of developing a urinary tract infection during the rainy season, there are some important ways for you to proactively protect yourself:

• Drink plenty of pure water daily to assist the urinary system in eliminating bacteria from the body.
• Maintain proper hygiene by keeping the genital area dry and clean; do not leave the genital area wet by wearing damp clothing for long periods of time.
• Eat fewer meals from street food vendors and eat only decently prepared meals from respectable establishments.
• Do not hold urine for extended periods of time; holding urine too long allows for excessive bacterial growth.
• Wear breathable clothing to reduce moisture in the genital region (e.g., cotton, moisture-wicking material).
   

By taking these precautions, someone with urological issues (or who is at risk of developing them) will be able to more safely and effectively manage their health through this period referred to as the Rainy-Season UTI Surge.

When to Seek Help From a Urologist

Although mild urinary tract infections (UTIs) may be treated by the infected individual at home with an over-the-counter remedy or antibiotic, if the infection recurs or if the symptoms of the infection are severe, seek the assistance of a medical professional.

The longer you wait to get help for your UTI, the greater the risk of kidney infection and the potential for complications. Medical specialists in urology will assist you with:

• The accurate identification and diagnosis of your UTI through urine and imaging tests
• The prescription of the appropriate antibiotic to treat your UTI
• The implementation of preventative treatment for individuals with a history of recurrent UTIs
• The identification and treatment of any underlying issues that put you at an increased risk for urinary tract infections

Seeking the assistance of a urologist at GEM Hospital in a timely manner and booking an appointment early can protect you from more serious infections and significantly improve your comfort during the rainy and colder months, often referred to as the Rainy-Season UTI Surge.