It’s time to talk about UTIs

Apr 18, 2022

By Stephanie Simons,
Head Pharmacist,
Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire

When it comes to general aches and pains, we’re used to chatting them through and seeking help. However, there are some issues that can cause embarrassment and lead us to delay getting the help we need. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are one such issue, but while it can be uncomfortable (both to discuss and tolerate), it’s important to tackle the infection as soon as possible before it leads to more serious problems.

UTIs occur when bacteria, usually from your poo, enters the urinary tract, causing an infection in your urinary system – either the bladder, urethra, ureters or kidneys. As women have a shorter urinary tract than men, bacteria are more likely to reach the organs and cause a UTI, and two-thirds of women experience this kind of infection at some point. However, UTIs can also occur in men and children.

Sexual intercourse is a key cause of UTIs, as it enables bacteria to be easily transferred into the urinary tract. Women are advised to urinate after any sexual activity to flush out any misplaced bacteria. Chemical irritants in bubble bath or perfumed soap can damage the urethra, making it more vulnerable to bacteria too.

Hormone changes during pregnancy and menopause can also increase the likelihood of UTIs, as can conditions that prevent you fully emptying your bladder like constipation or an enlarged prostate gland in men. People with a weakened immune system such as those with diabetes or undergoing chemotherapy are also at a higher risk.

So how do you know if you have one? The most common symptoms include pain or burning sensations when you pee, the need to pee more often than usual, cloudy urine, and lower back or stomach pain. More severe cases can cause blood in the urine, a high fever, chills, vomiting, or a very low temperature. If you’re experiencing any symptoms, do speak to your GP to arrange a urine test.

Many UTIs resolve themselves within a few days. You can take paracetamol products like Panadol or Tylenol to help with pain and any high temperature and be sure to rest and consume plenty of liquids. Your GP may prescribe antibiotics and your local pharmacy will stock a range of products specifically targeting UTI symptoms such as Cymalon and Phenazopyridine. Some evidence suggests cranberry supplements like N.B. or Sundown Cranberry Capsules can also speed recovery, while creams like Vagisil may relieve soreness while you wait.

It’s always important to seek medical advice as severe UTIs, if left untreated, can lead to a kidney infection. Without treatment, kidney infections can cause permanent damage to your kidneys and the bacteria may spread to your bloodstream causing life-threatening infection. Kidney infections are particularly dangerous for pregnant women as they can cause premature delivery and the associated risks for both mother and baby.

You can reduce your chance of developing a UTI with a few simple techniques. Hygiene is key – keep the genital area clean and dry and be sure to wipe from front to back when you finish using the toilet. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and wash the skin around the vagina before and after sex if possible.

While it can be a difficult topic to discuss, UTIs are very common and there’s nothing to be ashamed about. Your GP or pharmacist will be happy to help diagnose and treat a UTI so you can avoid more severe symptoms and feel back to normal as soon as possible.

Stephanie Simons is the head pharmacist at Lindo’s Pharmacy in Devonshire. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and has been practicing for over 20 years. She is a registered pharmacist with the Bermuda Pharmacy Council and is a member of the Bermuda Pharmaceutical Association.

 

Mega Bundle Deal!

Apr 11, 2022

MEGA BUNDLE INCLUDES:
Tide Ultra Oxi 154 oz., Downy Unstoppables 26.5 oz., 24 Rolls of Charmin, 12 rolls of Bounty, Dawn Dish Detergent 75 oz., 240 Downy Dryer Sheets & a Free Gift!

CONTAINER SALE! ONE DAY ONLY!

Call for details or to pre-order your Mega Bundle!

Date: Saturday, April 16, 2022
Time: 9:00 am to 2:00 pm or while supplies last
Location: Upstairs of Lindo’s Market in Devonshire
Cash & Credit Cards Accepted!

For more information email:
Or call Lindo’s Market Devonshire at 441-236-5623 for more information

 

Green Beans with Caramelized Pecans

Apr 6, 2022

This delicious side dish features crisp green beans tossed with sweet caramelized pecans and shallots with just a touch of citrus.

 

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 pounds green beans, trimmed
  • 1 cup pecan halves and pieces
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup shallot, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest, optional
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS

  1. Cook beans in a 6- to 8-quart pot of well-salted boiling water, uncovered, until just tender, 5 to 8 minutes. Transfer beans to a colander placed in ice water to stop cooking, then drain well and spread the beans to dry on towels.
  2. Add pecans and brown sugar to a skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved and the pecans are evenly coated and glossy.
  3. Spread the pecans in an even layer on parchment or wax paper and leave to cool.
  4. Melt butter in a large pan over medium-high heat, add the shallots and saute for 1 minute.
  5. Add green beans, salt, pepper, and orange zest. Sauté beans, turning them with tongs, until heated through, 2 to 4 minutes. Add the candied pecans and toss. Transfer to a platter and serve.

 

Brussels Sprouts au Gratin

Apr 3, 2022

Brussels Sprouts au Gratin makes a classy and delicious side to any main dish.

Prep Time: 15 mins  ■  Cook Time: 35 mins  ■  Total Time: 1 hour  ■  Makes: 6 servings

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces, plus more for the dish
  • 1 1/2 lbs brussels sprouts, ends trimmed and halved lengthwise
  • 2 slices bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 2 large shallots, peeled and finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, peeled and thinly sliced
  • Kosher salt and black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups coarse bread crumbs
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (about 3 ounces)

DIRECTIONS

  1. Heat oven to 425°F and butter a 2-quart baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Brussels sprouts and cook until tender, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain in a colander, then immediately immerse in ice water for several minutes until cold to stop the cooking process. Once the Brussels sprouts are cold, drain well, and cut in halves or quarters, depending on size. Set aside.
  3. Meanwhile, place the bacon in a large, deep skillet, and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until lightly browned; about 5 minutes. Reduce heat and stir in the chopped shallots and the sliced garlic. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 1/2 minutes. Add the Brussels sprouts. Season with salt and pepper then toss for about 1 minute to evenly distribute the seasonings. Arrange the bacon and Brussels sprouts mixture in the prepared baking dish. Pour cream evenly over the Brussels sprouts, then sprinkle breadcrumbs and Gruyère cheese on top. Distribute pieces of butter over the bread crumbs.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown and heated through, about 20 to 25 minutes.
  5. Let sit 1 to 2 minutes at room temperature before serving.