Dr. Jeongho Lee, a urology specialist at Incheon Hi Hospital, clarifies, “Wet swimsuits don’t directly introduce harmful bacteria, but they create conditions conducive to bacterial invasion and proliferation, acting as a risk factor.”
A study analyzing health insurance data from approximately 1.13 million South Koreans revealed that a 20% rise in summer temperatures was associated with a 6% increase in emergency room visits for UTIs across the population, with women facing a 12% higher risk.
UTIs are categorized by location: lower or upper urinary tract infections. Lower UTIs, such as cystitis, affect the bladder or urethra, the conduit for urine exiting the body. Symptoms include painful urination, lower abdominal or pelvic discomfort, frequent urination, and a persistent sensation of incomplete bladder emptying.
Upper UTIs target the kidneys, where urine is produced, or the ureters, which transport urine to the bladder. These infections often cause systemic symptoms like fever and nausea and can progress to severe conditions requiring longer treatment. Pyelonephritis, an infection of the kidneys and renal pelvis, is a common example.
The primary cause of UTIs is Escherichia coli (E. coli), typically originating from the patient’s own gut. Bacteria often enter the urinary tract due to poor hygiene practices, such as inadequate perineal cleaning, or habits like delaying urination. Women are more susceptible due to their shorter urethras, located closer to the anus, facilitating bacterial entry. Sexual activity can also introduce bacteria into the urethra. Indirect factors include prolonged wearing of wet swimsuits, which create an environment favorable to bacterial growth.
With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, UTIs are fully curable. Urine tests identify the infection and causative bacteria, guiding targeted antibiotic therapy.
Dr. Lee stresses the importance of completing the prescribed antibiotic course: “Discontinuing medication early because symptoms subside can lead to recurrence or antibiotic resistance.” For prevention, he advises, “After swimming, change into dry underwear promptly. Stay hydrated, maintain proper hygiene, wipe from front to back after bowel movements, and urinate after sexual activity—these small habits are critical.”
medikorea team Kim Kuk Ju
press@hinews.co.kr