Heatwave Health Crisis : How Rising Temperatures Are Triggering Kidney & UTI Cases
-Dr. Jitendra Sakhrani, Urologist, Apollo Spectra Mumbai
As heatwaves intensify across India, rising temperatures are not just causing dehydration but also kidney problems and urinary tract infections (UTIs). Follow the vital tips given by the expert in the article below and stay healthy during those sunny days.
Just like heatwaves can trigger heart crises, rising temperatures are now causing a spike in kidney problems and urinary tract infections (UTIs). Excessive heat leads to dehydration, which stresses the kidneys and creates conditions that allow bacteria to grow in the urinary tract. Are you aware? Urban populations, outdoor workers, and older adults are particularly vulnerable to kidney and UTI infections. When it comes to kidneys, dehydration from prolonged heat, excessive sweating, and inadequate water intake reduces blood flow to these vital organs, inducing issues such as kidney stones, acute kidney injury, or worsening of existing kidney disease. Kidney-related issues can lead to lower back pain, reduced urine output, swelling in hands or feet, fatigue, or nausea that can interfere with the daily routine. Severe dehydration can lead to dizziness and confusion. Untreated kidney problems can escalate to kidney failure, electrolyte imbalance, or long-term damage requiring dialysis. Moreover, many also suffer from UTIs, which tend to happen when the bacteria multiply in the urinary tract, often worsened by dehydration, infrequent urination, or poor hygiene. The symptoms of UTI are burning sensations while urinating, frequent urges to urinate, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, lower abdominal discomfort, and fever. UTIs, if left untreated, can spread to the kidneys, causing pyelonephritis, a serious infection that can be life-threatening.
The last word: So, everyone should prioritize their health during scorching heat. To prevent UTIs, hydration is key, so drink at least 2-3 litres of water every day. Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol, which can dehydrate the body further. Maintain good personal hygiene, urinate from time to time, opt for breathable clothing to reduce UTI risk. For kidney health, moderate salt intake, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and rest during peak heat hours. Seek timely help for kidney problems or UTIs. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics for UTIs or hydration therapy for kidney issues can be advised to the patients. This summer, stay healthy by adhering to these tips and preventing kidney issues and UTIs.
