A urinary tract infection (UTI) can throw you off balance, generating symptoms such as bloody urine and pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic region. These infections account for around 8 million doctor visits per year and are the second most prevalent form of infection in the human body. They are more common in women, although they can afflict men as well.
Antibiotics are essential to treat UTIs and can aid in recovery, symptom management, and prevention of complications. UTIs, if left untreated, can cause major consequences and health problems. In addition to antibiotics given by a doctor, there are various home remedies for urine infections that may help alleviate symptoms and prevent a recurrence.
Home Remedies For Urine Infection
Home Remedies For Urine Infection
Before we talk about remedies, let us know a little more about UTIs.Â
What Is Urinary Tract Infection?
A urinary tract infection is a type of infection that arises when bacteria enter and grow in the urinary tract. This infection can affect one or more sections of the urinary tract, such as:
- Urethra
- Bladder
- Ureters
- Kidneys
The bacterium Escherichia coli causes UTIs in over 90% of patients. Normally, E. coli is located in the intestines. It is harmless when restricted to the intestines. In women, sex may cause a UTI. This is because intercourse can transport bacteria from the anal area to the urethral orifice. Urinating after sexual activity can help women reduce their risk of infection. Using spermicides, diaphragms, and condoms may potentially increase your chances of getting a UTI. People with a compromised immune system are also at a higher risk.
Symptoms Of UTI
- Peeing with a painful, burning sensation and frequent urge to urinate, often generating little urine
- Lower abdominal discomfort
- Leaking of urine
- Bloody opaque urine or foul-smelling urine
- Lower backache
If a UTI spreads to the kidneys, which is a dangerous illness, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Upper back discomfort and fever
- Vomiting and nausea
UTIs can affect anyone, although they are more common in women. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 40 to 60% of women will experience at least one UTI over their lives. This is because people who are born female have a shorter urethra, making it simpler for bacteria to enter their bladder. Urinary tract infections in males are frequently caused by an enlarged prostate that prevents urine flow. This makes it easier for germs to colonize the urinary tract.
Home Remedies For Urine Infection
Until significant advances in UTI treatment are made, antibiotics will remain the most effective conventional treatment. In addition to regular antibiotic therapy provided by a healthcare expert, you can try a few home remedies to get better faster and reduce the probability of repeated infections.
1. Consider Cranberries
Cranberries may contain a component that prevents germs from adhering to the urinary system walls. Though research is equivocal, some studies suggest that cranberry products, such as unsweetened cranberry juice, cranberry pills, or dried cranberries, may help reduce your risk of UTIs. However, other studies have found that using cranberries to prevent UTIs does not yield consistent benefits, indicating that more research is needed.Â
2. Drink Water
Although urinating can be unpleasant when you have a UTI, it is highly important to drink enough fluids regularly, especially water. Experts mention that adults should drink six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day. The more you drink, the more you urinate, which can aid in the removal of dangerous bacteria from the urinary system.
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3. Urinate Only When Necessary
Holding your pee or ignoring the desire to urinate can promote the growth of bacteria in your urinary tract. As a general guideline, use the restroom whenever you feel the need. It’s also critical to ensure that you’re completely emptying your bladder when you urinate and to urinate after intercourse, especially if you are a female. (If you do, make sure you wipe from front to back after urinating.)
4. Increase Intake Of Vitamin C
Increasing your Vitamin C consumption may benefit your immune system. However, several studies have revealed mixed evidence for the usefulness of Vitamin C in treating UTIs, with the conclusion that not enough trials have been conducted to support this treatment.
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5. Use A Heating Pad
Applying a heating pad to your lower belly can help relieve some of the pain associated with a UTI and minimize frequent trips to the bathroom, which can cause unpleasant burning.
If you’re having significant pain that won’t go away despite using at-home remedies, you should probably consult a doctor about your symptoms.