Oh dear, when it burns on holiday

Enjoying your holiday and really switching off? Unfortunately, a urinary tract infection often gets in the way. Urinary tract infections (cystitis) are more common during the holiday season. Drinking too little, wet bikinis, increased sexual activity, poor hygiene in toilet facilities and travel stress are among the risk factors.

Women are particularly often affected by urinary tract infections. One reason is the short length of the female urethra (3 cm in women vs 20 cm in men). This makes it easier for potential pathogens from the vaginal or anal region to ascend through the urethra into the bladder. Hormonal disorders can also make a urinary tract infection more likely.

Other risk factors for cystitis include: diabetes mellitus, previous urinary tract infections, recent antibiotic use, and narrowing due to anatomical conditions.

As a general rule, if in doubt, please see your GP. All these recommendations are given without guarantee and should always be discussed individually with your doctor!

When the first signs of a urinary tract infection appear – frequent urge to urinate, mild pain or burning when urinating – it can often still be caught early with home remedies. Increasing your fluid intake, phytotherapeutics and the preparation Femanose are recommended. A so-called "flushing therapy" with diuretic plants such as nettle leaves, birch leaves or lovage root as a tea is suitable. The spices rosemary, horseradish and nasturtium can also help.

• Omega-3 fatty acids
• secondary plant compounds (e.g. polyphenols)
• Dietary fibre
• Vitamin A, C, D and E
• Minerals (for example zinc or magnesium)
• Probiotics

can support the body in fighting infection. It is advisable to keep the lower abdomen and feet as warm as possible.

During this time it is also advisable to avoid alcohol, sugar, trans fats etc.

If the symptoms do not improve within 1-2 days or even get worse, it is advisable to take an antibiotic, especially if there is a history of urinary tract infections or kidney infections (pyelonephritis). Particular caution is needed if flank pain or fever occurs.

In men in particular, most urinary tract infections are classified as complicated and require medical treatment.

In TCM, a lower urinary tract infection is usually associated with "heat and dampness". This can be caused by dietary mistakes or emotional strain such as stress, frustration or depression. Special, individually composed herbal blends can help here. Acupuncture is also used. (Feel free to contact our TCM therapists)

Changing your diet can also help here. Avoiding white flour products, sweets, alcohol, spicy seasonings, cold food and dairy products can be supportive.

With recurring urinary tract infections, it is advisable to take some preventive measures.

• Fluid intake of 1.5 l/day
• Emptying the bladder after sexual intercourse or long baths
• Urinate correctly – do not strain!
• Acidifying the urine: apple cider vinegar (diluted with water), cranberry capsules, L-methionine
• Supplements: herbal essences, D-mannose