Do You Suffer From Urinary Problems During Summers? Know Tips To Keep Your Body Cool

From dehydration to UTIs, the warmer months can exacerbate existing conditions and create new challenges for individuals because of increased physical activity leading to fluid loss through sweating.

Know Tips To Keep Your Body Cool During Summers (Representational Image)

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As the summer heat intensifies, so do certain health concerns, including urinary problems. From dehydration to urinary tract infections (UTIs), the warmer months can exacerbate existing conditions and create new challenges for individuals. This is because, the hot weather and increased physical activity leads to fluid loss through sweating, resulting in decreased urine output and concentrated urine. Dehydration can predispose individuals to UTIs by reducing the body's ability to flush out bacteria from the urinary tract. Additionally, holding urine for prolonged periods due to limited access to restrooms during outdoor activities can increase the risk of UTIs.

To know how to manage and prevent these, ABP Live sought the opinion of experts who shared prevention and management tips, and also suggested ways to stay hydrated during the summer season.

Management Strategies:

If you suspect a UTI, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. UTIs typically require treatment with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional. Additionally, following these strategies can help manage and prevent recurrent UTIs as mentioned by Dr. Mathisekaran Thangarasu - Consultant Urologist, AINU Hospital, Chennai:

1. Complete the Full Course of Antibiotics: Take all prescribed antibiotics as directed by your healthcare provider, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication.
2. Increase Fluid Intake: Continue to drink plenty of water to help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract and maintain optimal hydration.

Prevention Tips:

Urinary problems can pose significant challenges during the summer season, but with proper prevention and management strategies, individuals can minimize their risk and enjoy outdoor activities safely.

Here are a few tips suggested by Dr. Thangarasu:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially when outdoors or engaging in physical activities. Aim to consume at least eight glasses of water daily, and increase intake during hot weather.
• Urinate Regularly: Do not hold urine for extended periods. Empty the bladder whenever necessary, even if it means finding a restroom during outdoor excursions.
• Avoid Excessive Caffeine and Alcohol: Both caffeine and alcohol have diuretic effects, which can contribute to dehydration. Limit consumption of these beverages, especially during hot weather.

Tips And Tricks To Keep Cool And Hydrated During Heat Wave:

Heatwave occurs in summers when the temperature reaches 40 degrees Celsius or above in plains and 30 degrees or above in hilly terrain, bringing in a number of health hazards. In earlier days, the ecosystem was well balanced with nature, but rapid urbanization and deforestation have brought many exaggerations and uncertainties in the climatic changes. Being a tropical country, India faces extreme heatwaves, especially in the northern part.

Dr Karthiyayini Mahadevan mentioned tips to stay cool and hydrated during this time.

• Adequate hydration
• Eat seasonal palm fruits, which are called ice jelly fruit. Eating this cools the body to combat the heat wave
• Drink tender coconut water regularly
• Eat watery fruits such as watermelon and musk melon, which hold a lot of water and make the body cool and hydrated
• Drink buttermilk along with ginger and mint leaves
• Consume watery vegetables 
• Avoid high protein sourced from animals
• Avoid eating spicy and stale food

In addition, she also suggested steps to take while heatwave alert is on:

• Avoid going in the sun, especially during the mid-day sun until 3 PM.
• If you need to step out, wear a hat and take an umbrella, preferably any colour other than black.
• Always carry a water bottle when going out and keep having sips of water throughout the day.
• Wear light-coloured, loosely fitting cotton clothes for the skin to breathe well.
• Avoid coffee and carbonated drinks.

Lastly, she discussed how to combat the impact of severe heat waves.

• Use the oral rehydration solution to rehydrate if there is dehydration.
• Carry a damp cloth and keep using it on the limbs, head, neck and face to cool the body.
• Take a cold shower to cool down the body temperature in case of a heat stroke.
• Drink fresh lime water and a pinch of salt and sugar to help with muscle cramps.
• Apply gentle but firm pressure and massage the limb that is having cramps.
• Maintain adequate ventilation.
• Stay indoors with a well-regulated cool temperature.

How Detoxification Can Help During Summers

In a world where everyone is focused on wellness and fitness, the word 'detoxification' is gaining more and more importance as individuals seek ways to cleanse their bodies and minds, promote overall health, and rejuvenate themselves. Rooted in the principles of Ayurveda, the ancient Indian holistic healing system detoxification flushes out 'ama', a sticky, harmful substance that can impede the body's natural functions and contribute to imbalances. 

Dr. Govind, CIO- Kapiva listed down how detoxifying our bodies regularly can lead to transformative results in our well-being: 

• Eat clean to boost energy levels: 

Detoxifying your body helps remove toxins that can weigh you down and make you feel inactive. With a cleaner system, you'll notice increased energy levels to tackle your daily tasks with enthusiasm. 

• Gut optimization for enhanced digestion: 

A regular detox can aid in improving digestion by eliminating built-up waste and promoting a healthier balance of gut bacteria. 

• Enhanced immune system: 

By eliminating toxins, detoxification supports your body's natural defenses, making it easier to fight off infections and illnesses. A stronger immune system means fewer sick days and a better quality of life. 

• Achieve radiant skin with cetoxification and neem juice: 

Toxins and impurities can contribute to various skin issues such as acne, eczema, and dullness. Regular detoxification can help clear your skin by flushing out toxins and promoting better circulation, resulting in a brighter, healthier complexion. 

• Kick-start weight management and jumpstart your metabolism: 

Detoxifying your body can kick-start your weight loss journey by eliminating excess waste and toxins stored in fat cells. It can also help reset your metabolism, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight over time. 

• Combat inflammation through detox: 

Inflammation is the body's natural response to toxins and stressors. By detoxifying regularly, you can reduce inflammation levels, which may alleviate symptoms of chronic conditions such as arthritis, allergies, and asthma. 

• Enhance nutrient absorption for better overall health: 

A cleaner digestive system allows for better absorption of essential nutrients from the foods you eat. By detoxifying regularly, you ensure that your body can effectively utilize the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants necessary for optimal health. 

• Increase holistic wellness for vitality and longevity:

Regular detoxification isn't just a quick fix; it's a commitment to your long-term health. By consistently supporting your body's natural detox processes, you're investing in a healthier, happier future.