Warmer Weather Raises Your UTI Risk by Up to 30 Percent

Not all of summer is fun and games. The warmer temperatures also increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Here is a look at why this happens and what you can do to reduce your risk as the mercury continues to climb.

Temperatures and UTIs Both on the Uptick - But Why?

The dog days of summer are upon us. Unfortunately, warmer weather also naturally translates to a greater threat of UTIs in women. Medical professionals say that the odds of coming down with a UTI increase by 20% to 30% during the warmer months. In general, approximately 60% of women will develop a UTI over the course of their lifetime. The risk of contracting a UTI is higher in menopausal women.

The telltale sign of a UTI is the increased need to urinate paired with burning during urination. Sufferers may also notice that their urine looks cloudy or bloody. Some women also note that the urine has a foul odor.

There is not one specific factor that contributes to a higher risk of UTIs during the summer. Rather, it is just the result of changes in the environment that supports the development of bacteria.

For example, it is easier to become dehydrated when the temperatures spike, inherently raising the threat of developing a UTI. The increased moisture as a result of sweating or wet bathing suits also promotes bacterial growth.

How to Reduce the Threat of a UTI

There are a number of steps that you can take to reduce your risk of coming down with a UTI. The first step is being intentional about staying properly hydrated. Combat the warmer temperatures with increased fluid consumption.

It is also important to visit the bathroom when the urge first strikes. Holding your urine inherently provides more time and opportunities for bacteria to develop and grow, making it important to go as soon as possible. Medical experts hypothesize that longer airline flights and more time spent outside and away from bathrooms could be partially responsible for the uptick in UTIs this time of the year.

What you wear is also important. Avoid overly tight clothing, choosing looser and more breathable fabrics instead. Doctors also advise removing wet clothes as soon as possible. Although wet clothing does not directly cause UTIs, bacteria thrive in moist environments. While it may be tempting to lounge around in that wet swimsuit all day at the lake, you are inviting trouble if you do so.

Lastly, eating cranberries has also been shown to help prevent UTIs. The active ingredient in cranberry products, proanthocyanidins, mitigates the volume of bacteria.

With a little proactive behavior, you can reduce the chance that you are dealing with an uncomfortable UTI while trying to make the most of summer.

Weather changes fast, so help your community stay prepared. Share this story with friends, family, or your group chat, and keep your forecast in the now with Weather Forecast Now.