Final Thoughts On Interstitial Cystitis Natural Treatment
An inflamed bladder can cause a number of troublesome symptoms, including abdominal and pelvic pressure, accidental leakage of urine, frequent urination, the urge to urinate, and burning or pain upon urination. You are also at risk for anxiety, depression, and emotional stress.
Thankfully interstitial cystitis natural treatment can help relieve your symptoms. For instance, you can train your bladder make positive dietary changes manage your stress drink more water or try pelvic floor physical therapy, acupuncture, or other mind-body relaxation techniques. Inflamed bladder home remedies also include arginine, quercetin, green tea, turmeric, baking soda, apple cider vinegar, and hot compresses.
Relief with natural treatment for interstitial cystitis is possible. It is a good idea to consult a natural practitioner like a holistic nutritionist or naturopathic doctor for further guidance in the treatment of interstitial cystitis and bladder problems.
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How To Relieve Uti Pain At Night
At night, relieve UTI pain by drinking green tea or cranberry juice. Avoid caffeine altogether.
If you have excruciating pain, you can go to the restroom and use the jet spray to spray water on your private parts. This is sure to reduce your UTI pain.
You can also apply tea tree oil or coconut oil to relieve UTI pain at night.
Natural Home Remedies For Uti
Here are eight effective natural remedies for UTI that contain these three properties.
1. Water
Drinking plenty of water is, of course, the most important thing to do when youre experiencing from a bad case of UTI. It works by flushing out bacteria from your urinary tract. Although more trips to the bathroom may not sound like an appealing idea, doing so would help relieve your symptoms much faster. If youre getting your fill of eight glasses of water a day, try drinking even more fluids for a quicker solution.
2. Heat packs
UTI can cause abdominal discomfort due to a combination of spasms and inflammation. When this happens, you need something to relax your muscles. A heat pack, or even a bottle of warm water, would help you manage the pain. If youre using a water bottle as a makeshift heat pack, make sure to wrap it first with a towel before placing it over your abdomen. Avoid pressing on your bladder so as not to cause further complications. You may do this for as long as necessary.
3. Vitamin C
Also known as ascorbic acid, Vitamin C works for UTIs for two reasons: first, they boost the bodys immune system, and second, they make the urine more acidic, making it more robust against bacteria. To fight UTI, therefore, you need to eat food rich in vitamin C or take supplements.
4. Parsley
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How Probiotics Work For Utis
The ways in which probiotics may help prevent infection of the urinary tract are still not fully understood.
There are around 50 microbial species that inhabit the vaginal tract and hundreds found in bladders. These different species play an important role in the prevention of infection.
Specific species of probiotics can help restore beneficial levels of good bacteria and make it more difficult for pathogens to multiply.
It is believed probiotics may help prevent infection in part by maintaining the optimal vaginal pH and by producing antimicrobials that kill pathogens.
Causes Of Bladder Infection
When the bacteria attack the urinary tract, it results in a bladder infection. Women get affected by a bladder infection also due to the short length of their urethra. In men, it is mostly caused due to sexual intercourse with an infected female. The use of contraceptive diaphragms or spermicidal agents is also a reason for bladder infection. Other causes are:
- A feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen.
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Here Is Some Trivia For You:
Did you know that bladder infections are more common in women than men?
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases estimates 40 to 60 percent of women will have at least one UTI in their lifetime.
This maybe due to the short urethra in women. The urethra is the tube that is about 1 ½ inches long and carries the urine out of the body.
The urethra’s short length makes it easy for bacteria to travel from outside the body to the bladder.
Top 12 Natural Home Remedies For Uti
Urinary tract infections are some of the most frequent clinical bacterial infections in women, accounting for nearly 25 percent of all infections. More than 50 percent of women will develop a UTI and UTI symptoms in their lifetimes, and because antibiotics are the most common conventional treatment for UTIs, bacteria have become antibiotic-resistant and recurring infections are a major concern. For this reason, its important to use home remedies for UTIs that eliminate bacteria completely and reduce the risk of developing recurrent urinary tract infections.
Some of the best home remedies for UTI include drinking plenty of fluids, staying clean and dry, and consuming things like cranberries, probiotics, vitamin C and using essential oils. Read on for all 12 of my top home remedies for UTI.
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Natural Urinary Tract Infection Remedies Recovery In Dogs
Rest for your dog during treatment is important. However, allow your dog outside to urinate frequently. Cleaning out the urinary tract during this time will be essential to create the correct pH balance for a healthy urinary tract.
Once your dog is feeling better, begin to add cranberries and blueberries to their meals. Some natural food brands and prescription foods are specifically designed for urinary tract issues and are created with natural foods that promote a healthy urinary tract.
Efficacy Of Natural Urinary Tract Infection Remedies In Dogs
Remember that a dog showing signs of a UTI may not always have bladder crystals/stones or a severe bacterial infection , but may simply have minor form of cystitis .
Herbal remedies can be effective in changing the pH balance of your dogs urinary tract, helping prevent an infection from establishing. Reducing inflammation with herbal supplements will help your dog feel better. If your dog is susceptible to recurrent urinary tract infections, preventive care might be necessary to keep from having treat and retreat.
If your dog does not urinate for 12 hours or more or is straining to pass urine but none is appearing, it is vital your dog sees your veterinarian right away.
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Urinary Tract Infection In Children
Overview of urinary tract infection in children
A urinary tract infection in children is a fairly common condition. Bacteria that enter the urethra are usually flushed out through urination. However, when bacteria arent expelled out of the urethra, they may grow within the urinary tract. This causes an infection.
The urinary tract consists of the parts of the body that are involved in urine production. They are:
- two kidneys that filter your blood and extra water to produce urine
- two ureters, or tubes, that take urine to your bladder from your kidneys
- a bladder that stores your urine until its removed from your body
- a urethra, or tube, that empties urine from your bladder to outside your body
Your child can develop a UTI when bacteria enter the urinary tract and travel up the urethra and into the body. The two types of UTIs most likely to affect children are bladder infections and kidney infections.
When a UTI affects the bladder, its called cystitis. When the infection travels from the bladder to the kidneys, its called pyelonephritis. Both can be successfully treated with antibiotics, but a kidney infection can lead to more serious health complications if left untreated.
Key Points About Urinary Tract Infections
- Urinary tract infections are a common health problem that affects millions of people each year. These infections can affect any part of the urinary tract.
- Most UTIs are caused by E. coli bacteria, which normally live in the colon.
- The most common symptoms of UTIs include changes in urination such as frequency, pain, or burning urine looks dark, cloudy, or red and smells bad back or side pain nausea/vomiting and fever.
- Antibiotics are used to treat UTIs. Other treatments may include pain relievers, and drinking plenty of water to help wash bacteria out of the urinary tract.
- Other things that can be done may help reduce the likelihood of developing UTIs.
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Increase Your Vitamin C Intake
Vitamin C may help because it makes the urine acidic, explains Dr. Eilber. One study of pregnant women found that those who took 100 mg of vitamin C every day had fewer UTIs than those who didnt. Dr. Eilber says theres not a lot of research beyond that, but some patients claim it works and it likely wont harm you so vitamin C supplementation could be worth a shot. Alternatively, you can try adding foods that are rich in vitamin C to your diet.
Benefits Of Antibiotics For Utis
Antibiotics are the standard treatment for UTIs because they kill the bacteria responsible for the infections. Most UTIs develop when bacteria enter the urinary tract from outside the body. The species most likely to cause UTIs include:
- E. coli, which cause of up to
- abnormal liver function, as indicated with testing
More severe risks of using antibiotics include:
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Try Taking A Probiotic
Introducing a probiotic to your system may help to replenish the naturally occurring, healthy bacteria that live in the gut. It is thought that probiotics may prevent harmful bacteria from attaching to the urinary tract cells, and may also lower the urine Ph, making it less hospitable to harmful bacteria. And, if you have taken an antibiotic to treat a UTI, taking a probiotic is a great way to build up the healthy bacteria that may have been killed during your course of treatment. Probiotics are found in supplement form , or they occur naturally in some types of food, including certain yogurts, kombucha, or kefir.
Preventing Urinary Tract Infections
There are many natural cures for urinary tract infections, but the best way to deal with a UTI is by preventing it from happening in the first place. UTIs are often preventable simply by making certain lifestyle changes:
- Wear loose clothing, such as loose pants, skirts, dresses, and cotton underwear. Since bacterium grows in moisture, tight clothing or clothing which restricts the flow of air can create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
- Drink plenty of water. Itâs good for you and helps flush bacteria from your system.
- Wipe from front to back, to stop bacteria from spreading.
- After sexual intercourse, urinate to clear out any bacteria.
If you are suffering from recurrent urinary tract infections, then there is likely something which is causing them to keep occurring. Constant medical visits and use of antibiotics may not be the answer. Simple lifestyle changes can help you stop this annoying reoccurrence. Drinking plenty of water, using natural remedies, and using proper hygiene practices can help keep UTIs away for good.
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Indian Gooseberry For Urinary Tract Infection
Indian Gooseberry is rich in vitamin C which in turn inhibits the growth of bacteria
- Take a cup of water.
- Add one teaspoon of Indian gooseberry powder and one teaspoon of turmeric powder.
- Boil the solution until half the water evaporates.
- Drink the residue three times a day for three to five days.
You can also eat more fruits like lemons, oranges, bananas, guava, kiwi, melon, raspberries, tomatoes, and papaya that contain a good amount of Vitamin C.
How To Get Rid Of A Urine Infection
Drink plenty of water
One of the first things to do when you have a urinary tract infection is to drink plenty of water.
Thats because drinking water can help flush away the bacteria which are causing your infection.
Eat plenty of food and drink plenty of fluids high in vitamin C
Getting plenty of vitamin C is important because large quantities will make your urine more acidic.
This will then help prevent further growth of bacteria in your urinary tract.
However, it should be noted this method could cause your bladder to become irritated due to the acidic impact, so it might be painful when urinating.
Cut out spicy food, nicotine and more from your diet
Irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, spicy food, nicotine or fizzy drinks can irritate your bladder further, making it harder for your body to heal.
Instead, opt for healthy, high-fibre foods which are good for your digestive system such as oatmeal or lentil soup.
Go to the toilet as much as you can
Every time you empty your bladder you rid it of some of the bacteria causing the infection.
So drinking plenty of fluids and going to the bathroom regularly will help you flush away the infection in no time.
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Apple Cider Vinegar Good For Urinary Tract Infection
Apple cider vinegar is a rich source of enzymes, potassium, and other useful minerals that can prevent the bacteria that cause UTIs from multiplying or growing. Those suffering from UTIs can use apple cider vinegar as
- Natural antibiotic to treat the infection.
- Add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water. You can also add lemon juice and sweeten with honey. Mix it well.
- Drink this two times a day for a few days
Preventative Tips For Recurring Or Chronic Utis:
- Avoid wearing thongs, as it makes it easier for bacteria to travel from the rectum to the vulva/vagina. Think of thongs as a road for bacteria to travel back and forthyeah, not so sexy now, huh?
- Reconsider your contraceptives if youre using a diaphragm, cervical cap, or condoms with spermicide, all of which increase your chances of UTIs.
- Be mindful about feminine protection. Wearing pads has been shown to increase your risk of UTI. However, if you use tampons I recommend organic, 100% cotton tampons ONLY as pesticide residues can also kill off healthy vaginal flora. If you prefer pads, change them often and go for plastic-free varieties or reusables made from natural, preferably organic cotton or linen.
- Take showers instead of baths.
- Drinking cranberry juice daily has been shown to decrease UTIs in women with a recent history of infection.12
- Consider an anti-inflammatory diet which discourages foods that can trigger inflammation or irritation in the bladder, such as gluten, sugar, vinegar, nightshade vegetables, dairy, soy, corn, coffee, refined oils, and chocolate.13, 14
- Eat probiotic-rich foods and/or take a Lactobacillus-containing probiotic.15
- Talk to your integrative functional medicine doctor or practitioner about using certain antimicrobial herbs prophylactically. Some of my top recommendations are available on FullScript and include: Herb Pharm Cranberry Tincture, DFH UT Synergy, and Metagenics Womens Probiotic.
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Creating Stronger Strains Of Bacteria
Over time, some species of bacteria have become resistant to traditional antibiotics. According to some research , several species of E. coli, the primary cause of UTIs, are showing increasing drug resistance.
The more a person uses an antibiotic, the greater the risk of the bacteria developing resistance. This is even more likely when a person does not take the full prescribed course of treatment.
It is essential to continue taking antibiotics until the end date that the doctor provides. Also, never share antibiotics with others.
Take An Otc Medication
Phenazopyridine hydrochloride is a pain reliever for the urinary tract and can be purchased over the counter in generic form or as the brand name drug AZO. This medication temporarily relieves urinary urgency, pain, and pressure associated with UTIs. However, it doesnt treat the underlying infection.
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Most Women With Uti Will Be Treated With Antibiotics
About half of all women will have a urinary tract infection at some point in their lifetime, and most will be treated with antibiotics to eliminate the infection.
While these medications have long been the standard treatment for a UTI, concerns about unnecessary antibiotic use and the growing problem of antibiotic resistance have raised questions about whether the drugs are always needed. Without antibiotic treatment, will a UTI go away on its own?
First, it helps to understand what a UTI is. UTI is classified into two broad categories, uncomplicated, also known as cystitis, and complicated, such as pyelonephritis, catheter-associated, UTI during pregnancy and UTI in setting of kidney stone.
When bacteria invade the urethra and track upwards to the bladder, it causes infection and inflammation in a normally sterile environment. In most cases, UTIs are caused by E. coli bacteria normally found in the bowels that venture out to an area in our body where it is not used to being.
A mild UTI causes symptoms, including painful urination, constantly feeling the need to urinate and cramping pain in the lower abdomen. In the elderly population, a mild UTI can even cause confusion. Symptoms from a complicated UTI include fever, lower back pain, blood in urine, and even pus in urine.
Can you treat a UTI without antibiotics?
While some UTIs may go away without antibiotic treatment, Dr. Pitis cautions against foregoing antibiotics.
Understanding UTI symptoms
- Blood in your urine
How Long Will Healing Take And When To See Your Doctor
The key to treating bladder infections naturally is to start fast and hit it hard! Following these recommendations, you should start to see improvement within about 2-3 days with resolution in about a week. If you havent seen improvement and especially if your symptoms worsen and include fever, chills, severe back pain, etc. see your doctor.
And remember, if you suspect a bladder infection/UTI make an appointment with your doctor right away for testing so you can be sure youre treating the right thing. If youre worried theyll recommend antibiotics right away, simply tell them youd like to try a natural approach first and will check back in a few days and/or if your symptoms worsen. If they push the issue, ask them why they feel you need antibiotics right away and hear them out. Maybe the infection is more severe and this is the right courseor maybe theyve not heard of treating a bladder infection naturally. Regardless, having an open-dialogue with a provider you trust is key to getting the right care.
Again, if youre pregnant or under the age of 10, see your doctor right away as medication is typically appropriate in these situations.
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