A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection caused when bacteria or fungi enter the bladder through the urethra. Symptoms may include a burning feeling while urinating, a frequent urge to pee, and pain in the lower abdomen. It is common to ask if it is safe to drink coffee when you have a UTI because coffee can be a diuretic, meaning it causes increased urine production.
However, there is still no scientific answer for whether or not drinking coffee when you have a UTI is safe. Several studies have been done to examine the effects of drinking coffee on urine flow and UTI symptoms, but no clear answer has been found. In general, it is likely safe to drink coffee when you have a UTI, as long as the amount of coffee you are consuming isn’t increasing your symptoms.
Dr. Amreen Choudry, a Health Correspondent, suggests that “because coffee is a diuretic, it can make it harder for the body to fight the infection. For people with a UTI, it’s better to cut down their coffee intake or even eliminate it altogether. This can help the body to fight the infection better.” If a person with a UTI is going to consume coffee, they should limit the amount they are drinking or substitute tea or other drinks instead. However, it may be beneficial to stop drinking coffee altogether until the UTI has gone away.
Manage Your Symptoms. For some people, consuming too much coffee can further irritate the bladder, which could exacerbate UTI symptoms. Others may find that drinking coffee helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract more quickly. It is also important to remember that coffee’s high acid content may also irritate the bladder, making UTI symptoms worse. For this reason, it is important to be aware of your body and how it responds to drinking coffee with a UTI.
Hydrate Adequately. It is essential to maintain a good intake of liquids and other fluids in order to help flush out bacteria that may cause a UTI. People with a UTI should try to drink plenty of water or fluids like cranberry juice, which can help to flush out bacteria. It is important to stay hydrated when fighting a UTI, so people should limit their coffee and other caffeinated beverages in order to avoid dehydration.
Get the Right Treatment. A UTI should not be taken lightly and can worsen without proper treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, people should seek medical advice as soon as possible. Taking a urinary tract infection seriously can help prevent complications, including permanent kidney damage. Doctors may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection and help reduce symptoms more quickly.
It is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important when dealing with a UTI. Eating foods with antioxidants like fruits and vegetables helps to strengthen the immune system and fight infection. It is also important to practice good hygiene and urinate after sex, as well as wipe front to back. Exercising regularly is also a great way to help flush out bacteria that could cause a UTI.
What if my symptoms don’t improve?
If the UTI does not improve after starting proper treatment, it is important to seek medical advice once again. Urinary tract infections can cause serious complications if left untreated. It is not safe to wait and see if symptoms improve, so people who experience persistent UTI symptoms should make an appointment with their doctor.
When should I see a doctor?
People should seek medical advice for a urinary tract infection if:
- They experience persistent symptoms such as pain, a frequent urge to pee, or a burning sensation while urinating, even after drinking fluids.
- They experience symptoms of a kidney infection such as fever, back or stomach pain, or vomiting.
- They experience serious symptoms such as confusion, difficulty breathing, or pain in the side or lower back.
Practice safe hygiene
Practicing safe hygiene can help to prevent a urinary tract infection. Some tips to keep in mind include:
- Wiping from front to back after using the bathroom.
- Washing the genitals with mild soap regularly.
- Taking showers instead of baths.
- Urinating after intercourse.
- Using condoms during sex.
- Avoiding sitting for long periods of time.
- Changing out of wet clothing promptly.
Seek medical help
If a person experiences persistent UTI symptoms or develop other symptoms that could indicate a UTI, they should see their doctor as soon as possible. Although drinking coffee may not be causing a UTI, it is important to follow the advice of a doctor if the problem persists. Doctors can test for a urinary tract infection and prescribe antibiotics if necessary.
Understand your limit of coffee
Since coffee is considered a diuretic, it is important to watch the amount of coffee consumed when dealing with a UTI. Make sure to monitor your coffee intake and even consider substituting coffee for tea if you notice any ill side effects. Above all, the advice of a doctor should be followed when dealing with this type of infection.
