Dehydration and UTI : Staying Healthy in the Texas Heat

Can You Get a UTI From Being Dehydrated?

As the Texas heat turns up, so should your hydration habits. Summer is a prime time for pool days, barbecues, and travel—but it’s also the peak season for dehydration-related urological issues like urinary tract infections (UTIs), and kidney stones. As a nurse practitioner specializing in urology, I want to share practical tips to help you stay hydrated and keep your bladder and kidneys happy all summer long.

1. Don’t Wait Until You’re Thirsty
   By the time you feel thirsty, your body is already playing catch-up. Aim for at least 8–10 cups of water daily, and more if you’re active or outdoors. A good rule of thumb: your urine should be light yellow—if it’s dark, drink up.
2. Choose Your Fluids Wisely
   Water is always best. Try infusing it with lemon, cucumber, or mint for a refreshing twist. Avoid excess caffeine and sugary drinks, which can irritate the bladder and act as diuretics, causing you to lose more fluid.
3. Eat Your Water
   Fruits and vegetables like watermelon, strawberries, cucumbers, and lettuce are naturally hydrating and rich in fiber, which helps prevent constipation—a common trigger for bladder pressure and infections. All of which are perfect ways to cool you down in the heat! 
4. Don’t Hold It In
   In the summer rush, it’s easy to delay bathroom breaks. But holding urine for too long can increase the risk of UTIs. Aim to empty your bladder every 3–4 hours, and always after sexual activity.
5. Beat Kidney Stones Before They Start
   Staying well-hydrated is the #1 way to reduce your risk of kidney stones, especially in our hot climate. If you have a history of stones, ask us about adding citrate-rich foods like lemons or oranges to your diet. 
6. Listen to Your Body
   Fatigue, headaches, or dizziness can be early signs of dehydration. If you’re spending time outside, carry a refillable water bottle and set reminders to sip regularly.

Does Dehydration Cause UTI Symptoms? 

Your bladder health doesn’t take a summer vacation, and neither should your hydration habits. Chronic dehydration can both mimic UTI symptoms AND cause UTI’s, as well as contribute to the conditions that can cause kidney stones. UTI and kidney stones are common in the Texas heat. 

 If you have recurring kidney stones and UTIs, schedule a visit—we’re here to help you enjoy a healthy, active summer.

Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay well!
— Natasha Motongo, APRN, Urology Care Team