Can Dehydration Cause a UTI?
A UTI occurs when bacteria enters the lower urinary tract.
Dehydration is not necessarily a cause of the UTI. However, it is a risk factor that will contribute to bacterial growth.
Therefore, staying hydrated is a great way of reducing urinary tract infections. Other risk factors include sexual intercourse, menopause, and certain types of birth control, such as diaphragms.
At Urology of Greater Atlanta, our expertly trained physicians can treat a UTI in both men and women. If you suspect you may have a UTI, contact one of our offices in Georgia today by phone or book a consultation online to begin immediate treatment.
What Is a UTI?
A UTI, or urinary tract infection, is an infection anywhere along the urinary system, including the ureter, urethra, bladder, and kidneys. The most common urinary tract infections are urethritis (infection of the urethra) and cystitis (bladder infections).
You could be diagnosed with interstitial cystitis or recurrent cystitis. Although UTIs can happen in both men and women, women seem to be at a higher risk because of their anatomy.
Signs of a UTI
The most common symptoms of UTIs are incontinence, a burning sensation while peeing, and urinary frequency and urgency. Listed below are some of the signs that may indicate a UTI.
- Pain while urinating
- Pelvic pain
- Frequent and intense urges to urinate
- Cloudy urine
- Strong smelling pee
- Urinating small amounts frequently
- Blood in urine
- Bladder pain
- Pain on your sides or upper back
- Fever
- Nausea
If you have any of these symptoms, contact us at Urology of Greater Atlanta. Our skilled urologists will be able to diagnose your symptoms and offer the correct treatment plan for your needs.
What Is Dehydration?
Dehydration is when your body lacks sufficient water to function correctly. Dehydration occurs when your body loses more water in comparison to your fluid intake. You are at a greater risk of dehydration in hot weather, especially if you work or exercise outside.
Signs of Dehydration
Feeling thirsty is often associated with the first signs of dehydration. However, you may be dehydrated without being thirsty. Look out for the following signs that may indicate dehydration.
- Extreme thirst
- Less frequent urination
- Dark-colored urine
- Headaches
- Dizziness/Confusion
- Muscle cramps
- Fatigue
- Lightheadedness
- Dry mouth, lips, and/or eyes
Severe dehydration can worsen symptoms of a UTI and increase the chances of recurrent infections. Try your best to avoid dehydration from occurring.
Ways to Prevent Dehydration
There are some easy things you can do to avoid dehydration. The list below contains some essential tips to prevent getting dehydrated.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Don’t skip meals
- Eat more fruits and vegetables
- Drink more while exercising or doing physical work
- Drink more fluids in hot weather and when you’re sick
- Avoid working during the hottest part of the day
Your daily fluid intake should include water. Alcohol, energy drinks, and too many caffeinated drinks can work against your hydration.
How Much Fluid Should You Drink Every Day to Prevent Dehydration?
Drinking sufficient fluids will help prevent dehydration, as well as UTIs. It is recommended that a man should take in about 3.7 liters of liquids, whereas most women will do well by drinking about 2.7 liters of fluids.
Since we typically take in about 20% of our fluids through meals, it should suffice if a man drinks about 3 liters and a woman drinks around 2 liters of water each day.
These guidelines are just an average. The appropriate amount you need to drink will depend on factors such as your diet, activity level, the surrounding climate, and your level of health.
Ways to Prevent UTIs
There are some simple things that you can do to prevent UTIs. The list below indicates some proven things that you can do to reduce your chance of getting one.
- Stay hydrated
- Wash or wipe your genital area after urinating
- Empty your bladder before and after sexual intercourse
- Take probiotics
- Avoid harsh shower gels
Many sources suggest using cranberry juice on a regular basis to prevent or fight against UTIs. However, no studies have provided solid evidence that this actually works. In fact, the sugar content will actually feed the bacteria in your body, potentially worsening the infection.
What If I Keep Getting a UTI?
Although dehydration can contribute to the development of UTIs, some people just seem to be more prone to getting them on a regular basis. Improving your hydration levels will usually help to reduce your chances of UTIs recurring.
In an effort to assist you even further, our expertly trained urologists at Urology of Greater Atlanta are ready to answer all your questions related to UTIs and help you to avoid a UTI from happening again.
Contact one of our offices in Georgia today to book an appointment. Our UTI specialists look forward to helping you get back to your normal self!
