top of page

By:

Correspondent

23 August 2024 at 4:29:04 pm

Kaleidoscope

National Security Guard (NSG) personnel take part in a joint exercise drill and commando demonstration in preparation for the 'Ujjain Simhastha 2026' in Bhopal on Monday. People take part in a religious procession on the eve of Guru Tegh Bahadur's birth anniversary at the Golden Temple in Amritsar on Monday. Volunteers of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) take part in a 'Path Sanchalan' (route march), in Prayagraj on Sunday. A participant in the Easter Bonnet Parade in New York wears a...

Kaleidoscope

National Security Guard (NSG) personnel take part in a joint exercise drill and commando demonstration in preparation for the 'Ujjain Simhastha 2026' in Bhopal on Monday. People take part in a religious procession on the eve of Guru Tegh Bahadur's birth anniversary at the Golden Temple in Amritsar on Monday. Volunteers of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) take part in a 'Path Sanchalan' (route march), in Prayagraj on Sunday. A participant in the Easter Bonnet Parade in New York wears a balloon costume on Sunday. A Lithuanian Orthodox priest blesses believers during the Palm Sunday Mass at the Orthodox Church of the Holy Spirit in Vilnius, Lithuania on Sunday.

Rising temperatures triggering kidney issues

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.


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.


(The writer is an urologist. Views personal.)

Comments

bottom of page