The winter woe

Proactive steps to protect your urinary system

- Dr Madhav Sanzgiri

The 65-year-old European had ignored his urinary issues and also the blood in urine. And then there was intermittent fever. After prolonged exposure to sub-zero temperatures, he came to India for treatment. Soon, he was in an emergency department with his bladder blocked and severe bleeding that produced blood clots. A CT scan found that his enlarged prostate had completely blocked his urinary system, leading to infections and bleeding.

Doctors used a cystoscope to remove the blood clots and stopped the bleeding with laser treatment. He was given intravenous antibiotics to fight the infection. Once his condition stabilised, a TURIs (transurethral resection in saline) bipolar endoscopic procedure was done to remove the prostate gland. The treatment progressed smoothly and he left the hospital within 72 hours without any pain or problems.

This case shows the need for regular check-ups and testing to identify issues caused by enlarged prostates.

People tend to overlook urinary health during winter because they think symptoms decrease in this season. But, research shows that cold temperatures make urinary symptoms and infections worse. The body responds to cold temperatures by sending more blood to vital organs and less to the skin layers. More urine is produced becaue of reduced sweating in winter, which puts extra stress on the urinary system.