Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common infections, especially in women. Most affect only the
bladder and clear quickly with the right treatment. An infection that reaches the kidneys is more serious and needs
prompt medical care. Ayurveda describes painful, difficult urination as Mutrakrichra and emphasises
cooling foods and plenty of fluids.
What is a UTI?
The urinary tract includes the kidneys, the tubes that carry urine to the bladder (ureters), the bladder, and the
tube that carries urine out (urethra). Most UTIs happen when bacteria from the bowel, usually E. coli, enter
the urethra and multiply in the bladder. Women are affected far more often because their urethra is short and close
to the back passage; about half of women will have at least one UTI in their lifetime.
Drinking enough water through the day is one of the simplest ways to protect the kidneys and urinary tract.
Bladder or kidney?
Older people with a UTI may have few urinary symptoms and instead become suddenly confused, drowsy or unsteady.
When to get urgent care
Fever, shivering, pain in the back or side, or vomiting — possible kidney infection
Feeling very unwell, confused, breathless, cold and clammy — possible sepsis; call 108 / 112
Any UTI in a man, a child, a pregnant woman, or someone with diabetes, kidney disease or a catheter
Being unable to pass urine
Blood in the urine without other UTI symptoms — needs investigation even if it goes away
Who gets UTIs
Women — especially with sexual activity, after menopause (lower oestrogen), and in pregnancy
People who drink too little, particularly in hot weather or when avoiding toilets at school or work
People with diabetes, kidney stones, an enlarged prostate, or a urinary catheter
Babies and young children, especially with constipation or reflux of urine
Testing & treatment
A urine dipstick and, ideally, a urine culture (taken before starting antibiotics) confirm infection and
show which antibiotic will work. Uncomplicated bladder infections in women are usually treated with a 3–5 day
course; kidney infections, men and pregnant women need longer courses, and sometimes hospital care. Complete the
full course. UTI bacteria in India are frequently resistant to common antibiotics, so avoid buying antibiotics
without a prescription — the wrong one can let a bladder infection spread to the kidneys. Paracetamol and plenty of
fluids ease symptoms.
Preventing repeat infections
Drink enough water that your urine is pale yellow; more in summer.
Don't hold urine for long periods; empty your bladder completely.
Pass urine soon after sex.
Wipe from front to back; avoid douches, scented washes and talc in the genital area.
Treat constipation, and keep blood sugar well controlled.
After menopause, vaginal oestrogen reduces repeat UTIs — ask your doctor.
For frequent UTIs, a doctor may investigate further or suggest preventive options.
Ayurvedic view
Cool Pitta in the urinary channels (Mutravaha srotas) → increase healthy urine flow → soothe burning → strengthen immunity to prevent recurrence.
Mutrakrichra — difficult, painful urination — is described in eight types according to cause. The burning,
frequent, yellow or blood-tinged urination of a bladder infection resembles the Pittaja type. Hot, spicy,
sour and fermented food, alcohol, dehydration, sun exposure and suppressing the urge to urinate are listed as causes.
Classical management uses cooling drinks and diuretic, soothing herbs, and a light diet.
Herbs & safety
Barley water (yava), coconut water and tender-coconut — traditional cooling drinks (coconut water is high in potassium; avoid with kidney disease)
Gokshura and Punarnava — diuretic herbs used for urinary symptoms
Chandana (sandalwood) and Ushira — cooling, for burning urination
Chandraprabha vati — a classical formulation for urinary disorders; contains minerals, so use only on a practitioner's advice
These may ease symptoms but do not reliably clear a bacterial infection. Use them alongside, not instead of,
prescribed antibiotics — and never for a suspected kidney infection or in pregnancy without your doctor's approval.
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