A PHARMACIST has warned hot weather could put women at higher at risk of a painful and potentially life-threatening condition.
Urinary tract infections – known as UTIs – tend to soar in the summer, as warmer temperatures provide the “perfect climate” for bacteria to thrive.
Hot weather can help harmful bacteria thrive, upping the risk of UTIs[/caption]
UTIs are caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract and affecting the urethra or bladder.
They’re easily dealt with with rest, painkillers and antibiotics, but left untreated the infections can rapidly progress into deadly sepsis.
Wendy Lee, lead pharmacist at Well Pharmacy, warned: “While UTIs are entirely treatable, if left undiagnosed, they can worsen quickly, leading to blood poisoning, known as sepsis, which can be fatal.
“If you suspect you might have a UTI, you must seek treatment immediately.”
The infections most commonly affect women – it’s estimated that over half of all women in the UK will have at least one UTI in their lifetime.
Men can get them too, though it’s less common.
“UTIs can be caused by dehydration, which women are at greater risk of developing during the summer months,” Wendy said.
“People tend to sweat more in hot weather and not drinking enough fluids could lead to lower urine production and a build-up of germs.
“The warmer weather provides the perfect climate for bacterial growth, which can then enter the urethra and cause infection.”
Untreated UTIs, which start in the urethra or bladder, can travel upwards to the kidneys.
This can cause a kidney infection – known as pyelonephritis – which can lead to scarring, chronic kidney disease or sepsis.
People over 65 are the most vulnerable to these secondary infections and should keep an eye out for UTI symptoms.
NHS stats show that more than 1.8m Brits were admitted to hospital due to UTIs between 2018 and 2023.
In 2022/23, 56 per cent of the 147,285 admissions were for people over 65.
UTI symptoms you should never ignore
Wendy flagged common symptoms of the infection to watch out for this summer:
- Pain or a burning feeling when urinating
- Needing to pee more frequently than usual
- Cloudy urine
- Blood in your pee
- Back pain or stomach pain
- Fever (high temperature)
- Chills and shivering, known as rigors
The pharmacist warned: “Any of these symptoms may indicate a more serious infection.
Under the NHS Pharmacy First scheme, you can get UTI symptoms checked out by a pharmacist without needing to wait for a GP appointment.
The scheme allows pharmacists to provide advice, treatment, and prescription medicines for seven common health conditions, which include UTIs in women.
How to avoid UTIs this summer
Wendy Lee, lead pharmacist at Well Pharmacy, shared her DOs and DON’Ts for avoiding UTIs this summer.
- DO maintain good personal hygiene – always keep the genital area clean, pat dry gently and wipe from your vagina towards your anus (front to back) when you use the toilet. Avoid holding urine for long periods and always go when you feel the urge.
- DO drink water or other fluids regularly, so you regularly pass urine and stay hydrated.
- DO wash your vagina before and after intercourse, and if able, urinate soon after sex
- DON’T use vaginal douches, scented intimate wipes, bubble baths, or heavily fragranced products. These can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and irritate the urinary tract.
- DO choose cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting trousers or synthetic fabrics that trap moisture, which can promote bacterial growth.
- DON’T rush when urinating, and make sure you empty your bladder fully
- DO limit alcohol and sugary drinks as this can be an irritant
Wendy described what you can expect when visiting a pharmacy for a UTI.
“Following consultation, your pharmacist will advise on the most effective painkillers to treat your needs,” she said.
“They can also supply antibiotics, if required, as well as determine whether there is a need to have a follow-up appointment with a GP.”
There are also things you can do at home to treat UTI symptoms.
“If you suspect you have a UTI there are things you can do to ease the symptoms, like taking paracetamol up to four times a day to reduce the pain and high temperature,” Wendy said.
“Try to take it easy, take frequent naps and drink lots of water because this will help dilute your urine, and in turn flush out the bacteria from your urinary tract.
“If you are perimenopausal or postmenopausal and experience recurrent UTIs, your pharmacist may advise speaking to your GP about oestrogen-based treatments such as vaginal creams, tablets or using a ring.”
