Urinary Tract Infection Home Remedies
Urinary Tract Infections, or UTIs, are not uncommon. In fact, Millions of people suffer from them every year. Although, it is not considered to be a serious illness, the infection can move to the kidneys or bladder, which may cause severe medical conditions. There are several urinary tract infection home remedies, which may help relieve the pain and discomfort associated with them; however, it is always recommended that you contact your doctor if you are experiencing symptoms.
Common symptoms associated with UTIs
Symptoms can vary greatly, depending on the severity of the infection. One common symptom is the sudden and constant urge to urinate, with little or no production. People may also experience a burning sensation when urinating; as well as, pain in the lower back or abdomen area. Urine may also appear cloudy, or even have traces of blood in some cases. Nausea, vomiting and fever may also occur, especially in children. Although they are common in both men and women, women do seem to be more susceptible to these types of infections.
Common Urinary Tract Infection Home Remedies
Some common home remedies include water, baking soda, berries that are high in antioxidants, foods rich in vitamin C, and an enzyme called bromelain, which is found in pineapple.
Practically FREE Urinary Tract Infection Home Remedies
Water and Baking Soda
Most medical professionals suggest that adults consume 8-eight ounce glasses of water per day. Increasing your intake of liquids can also help flush the infection causing bacteria out of your system. Some people have found that adding 1 teaspoon of baking soda to the water may help neutralize the acidity in urine, which may aid in fighting the bacteria as well.
Cranberries and Blueberries
Cranberries and blueberries have often been used as home remedies for urinary tract infections. They are very high in antioxidants, and contain properties that may help prevent pathogens from damaging healthy cells. Some people have found that drinking the unsweetened juice from these berries can also be helpful. There are also cranberry extract supplements available, but be sure to consult your physician before adding anything to your daily regimen.
Vitamin C
Foods high in vitamin C are believed to provide an excellent defense against bacterial growth. By increasing the acidity of the urine, it is believed that it can help prevent the bacteria from multiplying in the system. Check with your doctor about the amount of vitamin C he or she may recommend for you. They may suggest more or less for people who suffer from recurring infections.
Pineapple
Pineapple is another natural remedy that some people have found to be useful. The anti-inflammatory properties of bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapples, may help reduce UTI symptoms. Some studies have also suggested that it can enhance the effectiveness of antibiotics.
Go and Go Often
One of the best ways to fight UTIs is to flush it out. The more often you can urinate, the better. Try to avoid “holding it in”, as this only intensifies the risk of bacteria getting trapped in the urinary tract, and reproducing. Some of the remedies mentioned above, such as water and natural berry juice, can also help you clear your system of these harmful microbes.
Urinary Tract Infection Home Remedies and What To Avoid
What To Avoid
Avoiding irritants, such as dairy, chocolate and spicy foods, can also help in preventing urinary tract infections. It is also recommended that you decrease your intake of alcohol, caffeine and carbonated beverages. If you are already having symptoms, keeping these out of your diet may help reduce any discomfort you may be experiencing. You may also want to avoid sexual intercourse, or only have protected intercourse, to reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
Talk To Your Doctor
As with any health concern, you should always consult a medical professional. Some infections in the body require some type of antibiotic to clear them out of your system. You should also talk with your doctor about any possible risks and benefits associated with adding supplements to your diet, before doing so. Generally, if your symptoms persist longer than two days, you may need to schedule an appointment to have a doctor decide what treatment is best for you.
Urinary tract infection home remedies may help in relieving certain symptoms; however, they are not necessarily a cure. Some people may not require medication to clear an infection, but this is not always the case. With that being said, please keep in mind that if a urinary tract infection is left untreated, it can spread to other vital organs, such as the bladder or kidneys. If this happens, there could be an increased risk of a severe medical condition. Most of the time however this will not happen and Urinary Tract Infection Home Remedies remain a very good alternative to expensive drugs.
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