A urinary tract infection, or a UTI, is when bacteria gets into your urinary tract, which includes kidneys, bladder, or urethra. Women are at a greater risk of developing UTI as compared to men. If an infection is limited to the bladder, it can be painful and annoying. However, serious health problems can result if a UTI spreads to the kidneys.

Symptoms to look out for

The symptoms of UTI start to develop after 40 to 48 hours after the bacteria enters the women’s urethra. You should get tested for UTIs if you keep experiencing symptoms such as the frequent urge to pee especially at night, pain in the lower abdomen, nausea, vomiting, fever, fatigue, vaginal irritation, burning sensation while urinating, strong-smelling urine, blood in urine, pelvic pain, and back pain. One shouldn’t neglect these warning signs as they can indicate various underlying health conditions that can be life-threatening.

Times Now Digital spoke to Dr Padma Srivastava, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, about the testing of a UTI and many more things.

What are the different types of UTI?

There are different types of UTIs and different tests are required to detect and treat them. Types of UTIs include cystitis, urethritis, and pyelonephritis. Urethritis is a serious infection that affects the urethra. Cystitis is an infection that develops in the bladder. Lastly, pyelonephritis is a type of kidney infection. Your doctor might recommend a combination of multiple tests to determine the growth of these infections for prompt intervention. These tests can involve urinalysis (experts examine urine samples to look for signs of the infection), urine culture, swab test, cystoscopy, especially for cystitis, blood tests, and ultrasound or CT scan.

When should one get tested for UTI?

If you have health conditions such as diabetes, kidney problems, overactive bladder, urinary reflux, and bacterial vaginosis then you are at higher risk of developing UTIs. Pregnant women should consider getting tested for UTIs regularly for early detection and prompt diagnosis. Your doctor might suggest getting a urine test to check if you are diagnosed with UTIs.

Ayurvedic remedies for UTI

Dr Padma Srivastava, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, said, "Generally one should consider consulting an expert or doctor for effective treatment. This can ensure that your medical concerns are addressed which can help in reducing the intensity of the symptoms experienced. It is a safer option and has fewer chances of developing allergic reactions."

However, many reports claim that herbs such as Indian gooseberry, punarnava, gokshura, shilajit, and kantakari can be administered orally. Treatments such as Basti (enema), Swedana (sudation), and Lepas (body wrapping) also aid the process of healing urinary tract infection.

Other treatment options

Treatment options for UTIs include antibiotic treatments. These antibiotics provide relief from the persistent pain that might cause discomfort or irritation. Frequently update your doctor by being in touch with him/her about your condition and in case the symptoms worsen even after following the treatment plan. One should follow safety measures and take necessary precautions such as practicing intimate hygiene by wiping from front to back after using the washroom, avoiding holding urine for prolonged hours, wearing breathable cotton underwear, and gently cleaning your intimate area with warm water to lower your chances of getting UTIs.