The cold weather places additional strain on the bladder as it perpetuates poor hydration habits and promotes a sedentary lifestyle, which further aggravates urinary conditions.

According to experts, the cold weather places added pressure on the bladder that causes a condition called interstitial cystitis.

Also called painful bladder syndrome, doctors said this particularly cold winter has triggered this condition.

“In addition, there is a drop in hydration owing to the weather.

In addition, sedentary lifestyles have decreased sweat production, which is another way the body controls water levels. During the pandemic, these practices have increased, causing a higher number of cases in the city,” said Dr Saravanan, consultant nephrologist, Apollo Hospitals.

If left unattended, it can cause upper and lower urinary tract infections.

Long-term ramifications of leaving UTIs unattended can cause kidney damage, said doctors.

“Women are more likely to contract UTIs owing to the smaller length of their urinary tract.

Elderly people are also prone to UTI, owing to constipation issues from poor hydration. People with diabetes are also more likely to contract UTI. These patients need to be more vigilant,” said Dr Jeevagan M, Senior Urologist, Kauvery Hospital.

In children, diagnosis is difficult, said Dr Moorthy, Senior Consultant, Paediatric Surgery & Paediatric Urology, Rainbow Children’s Hospital. “Many parents have taken to using diapers more often. In that case, the chances of infections in the anal cavity are higher.

Children can contract kidney issues that will cause issues during puberty. Parents need to be vigilant,” he said.

To counter this issue, Dr Moorthy recommends good hygiene, hydration and forming a habit out of the two. Dr Jeevagan recommends reaching out to your healthcare provider and avoiding over-the-counter antibiotics, owing to possible complications and mistreatment.