What To Know
- Before you decide whether or not to work out with a UTI, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms.
- While you may be able to do some light exercise with a UTI, there are some types of exercise that you should avoid.
- Yes, it’s possible to get a UTI from exercising, especially if you don’t take precautions to stay hydrated and avoid irritation.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common and can be uncomfortable, but they don’t necessarily mean you have to put your workouts on hold. With the right precautions, you can stay active while you recover from a UTI.
Symptoms of a UTI
Before you decide whether or not to work out with a UTI, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms:
- Frequent urination
- Urgent urination
- Burning or pain during urination
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Fatigue
- Fever or chills
When to Avoid Exercise
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s best to skip your workout and see a doctor:
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea or vomiting
- Severe pain or burning
- Blood in your urine
When it’s Okay to Exercise
If your UTI is mild and you’re not experiencing any of the above symptoms, it may be okay to exercise. However, it’s important to listen to your body and stop if you start to feel worse.
Precautions to Take
If you decide to exercise with a UTI, there are some precautions you should take:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after your workout to help flush out the bacteria.
- Wear loose, breathable clothing: This will help keep your skin dry and prevent irritation.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol: These substances can irritate your bladder and make your symptoms worse.
- Use the bathroom frequently: This will help prevent bacteria from building up in your bladder.
- Take breaks: If you start to feel pain or burning, stop exercising and rest.
Types of Exercise to Avoid
While you may be able to do some light exercise with a UTI, there are some types of exercise that you should avoid:
- High-impact activities: These can put pressure on your bladder and make your symptoms worse.
- Exercises that involve holding your breath: These can increase the pressure in your abdomen and make your UTI worse.
- Contact sports: These can increase your risk of injury and infection.
Types of Exercise to Consider
If you’re looking for ways to stay active while you’re recovering from a UTI, consider these low-impact activities:
- Walking
- Swimming
- Biking
- Yoga
- Pilates
Takeaways: Exercise and UTIs – A Balancing Act
Exercising with a UTI can be a balancing act. It’s important to listen to your body and stop if you start to feel worse. However, with the right precautions, you can stay active while you recover from a UTI.
What You Need to Know
1. Can I take antibiotics before working out with a UTI?
No, it’s not recommended to take antibiotics before working out with a UTI. Antibiotics can make you more tired and dizzy, which can increase your risk of injury.
2. How long should I wait to exercise after taking antibiotics for a UTI?
It’s best to wait at least 24 hours after taking antibiotics for a UTI before exercising. This will give the antibiotics time to work and clear up the infection.
3. Can I get a UTI from exercising?
Yes, it’s possible to get a UTI from exercising, especially if you don’t take precautions to stay hydrated and avoid irritation.
4. What should I do if my UTI symptoms get worse after exercising?
If your UTI symptoms get worse after exercising, stop exercising and see a doctor. You may need to take antibiotics or other medications to clear up the infection.
5. Can I prevent UTIs from recurring?
There are a few things you can do to help prevent UTIs from recurring, including:
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Cranberry juice or supplements
- Wiping from front to back after using the bathroom
- Avoiding tight-fitting clothing
