Home Remedies For Utis: How To Get Rid Of Bladder Infections
By Katherine Lessman, MD, Nebraska Medicine OB-GYN Published May 9, 2022
Urinary tract infections in women are extremely common. Not only is the urethra short the close proximity to the vagina and anus makes it prone to infection. And because urinary tract infections occur so easily, questions about them do too. Here is some clarification about them to help dispel myths.
Natural Remedies For Uti Relief
A true UTI needs antibiotics to clear the bacteria responsible for the symptoms and infection, Dr. Sherry explains, so call your doctor if youre experiencing UTI symptoms. While you wait for your appointment, though, there are some home remedies you can try to help relieve some of the discomfort.
Avoid foods and beverages that will irritate your bladder
Drinking coffee and alcohol, and eating spicy food or foods with lots of added sugar will irritate the urinary tract. They can decrease the blood flow to the bladder, which will make it harder for your immune system to fight off the infection.
Drink lots of water and empty your bladder often
According to Chicago-based OB/GYN, Jessica Shepherd, MD, drinking lots of water when you are experiencing UTI symptoms can help flush away the bacteria. Draining your bladder frequently is essential to getting rid of the bacteria, Dr. Shepherd explains. The more water you drink, the more youll have to relieve yourself.
Use a heating pad
Dr. Shepherd and Dr. Sherry both recommend applying heat to your abdomen for relief from UTI cramps or the burning sensation. A heating pad or hot water bottle over your lower abdomen can help ease some of the discomfort from a UTI, Dr. Sherry says. If youre using an electric heating pad, be careful not to fall asleep with it on or leave it on your skin for long periods of time. This can be dangerous and either burn your skin or worse, cause a fire.
Try an herbal remedy
Medical Treatment For Kidney Infections
Antibiotics are always the first line of defense against a kidney infection. If the kidney infection isnt severe, a doctor will likely give you oral antibiotics to take once or twice a day for 7 to 14 days.
Its important to take the entire course of antibiotics, even if you feel better within several days. Stopping early could lead to antibiotic resistance or re-infection. A doctor will also encourage you to drink plenty of water.
In some cases, kidney infections may require going to the hospital. Youll be given fluids and antibiotics intravenously through an IV, both of which can help treat the infection.
In addition, lab work and imaging may be done to determine the severity of the infection as well as the cause, such as a blockage due to a kidney stone or anatomical abnormality.
If you have recurring UTIs that increase your risk of frequent kidney infections, a doctor will help you establish the cause of their frequency and help you prevent further infections from occurring.
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How Is This Diagnosed
If you notice symptoms of bladder wall thickening or any symptoms related to your urinary tract system, see your doctor.
Theyll likely have you undergo several tests, such as a urinalysis. For this test, a sample of your urine is checked for signs of infection, blood cells, or abnormal protein levels. If your doctor suspects bladder cancer, theyll check for cancer cells, too.
If cancer is a possibility, a cystoscopy may also be performed. During this procedure, a thin, flexible scope is guided up the urethra to check the lining of your urethra and bladder. A cystoscopy can also evaluate recurrent infections in the urinary tract.
In addition, a woman may undergo a pelvic exam to help diagnose an infection or other disorder.
How Is A Bladder Infection Diagnosed
Bladder infections are usually diagnosed with a urine test.
- Urinalysis, which checks for white blood cells in the urine that can be a sign of infection
- Urine culture, which uses a sample of urine to try and grow bacteria in a laboratory to identify the type of bacteria causing the UTI and determine which antibiotics would be effective against that bacteria
In people who have recurrent bladder infections, additional testing may be indicated to check for abnormalities in the kidneys, ureter, bladder, or urethra, or for kidney stones. Tests may include:
- Computed tomography scan
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What To Do When Home Remedies Do Not Provide Permanent Relief
If the home remedies fail to bring you the desired results or the UTI flares up again, do not take it casually. Be very proactive and consult a specialist doctor for proper diagnosis and medications.Complete the course of antibiotics that your doctor prescribes and go for timely follow-ups until you are absolutely fine.
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Cut Bladder Irritants From Your Diet
When you have a UTI, caffeine, alcohol, spicy food, nicotine, carbonated drinks, and artificial sweeteners can irritate your bladder further, making it harder for your body to heal, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Focus on healthy foods, such as high-fiber carbohydrates , that are good for your digestive health, says Holly Lucille, ND, RN, a naturopathic doctor in private practice in West Hollywood, California, and the author of Creating and Maintaining Balance: A Womans Guide to Safe, Natural Hormone Health.
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How You Can Treat Cystitis Yourself
If you have been having mild symptoms for less than 3 days or you have had cystitis before and do not feel you need to see a GP, you may want to treat your symptoms at home or ask a pharmacist for advice.
Until youâre feeling better, it may help to:
- wipe from front to back when you go to the toilet
- gently wash around your genitals with a skin-sensitive soap
Some people believe that cranberry drinks and products that reduce the acidity of their urine will help.
But thereâs a lack of evidence to suggest theyâre effective.
Water Is Your Best Friend
When you first notice burning when you use the restroom, its tempting to reduce your water intake. After all, that will prevent the pain, right?
Wrong.
It seems counter-intuitive, but you need to flush out your system. You should drink plenty of water to help your body remove the E. Coli. Dont overdo it, but drink as much water as possible in those crucial first 24 hours.
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What Are Potential Complications Of A Bladder Infection
Complications of a bladder infection can occur without appropriate diagnosis or treatment. An untreated or poorly treated bladder infection can ascend the urinary system and lead to kidney infection and enter the bloodstream, leading to , which can be life-threatening. In children, particularly, kidney infections can cause permanent damage to the kidney. In pregnant women, complications of bladder infections include an increased risk of delivering low birth weight or premature infants. Urethral narrowing in men from recurrent urethral infections can occur, more commonly with sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea.
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How To Make Plantain Tea For A Uti
- Add 3 generous Tablespoons of dried plantain leaf to a quart jar.
- Boil 1 quart of water.
- Pour the water over the tea.
- Let the tea steep for 30-60 minutes or overnight.
- Strain out the leaves.
Warning
Hello all on this thread,
Let me just sound a warning on the dangers of lower tract infections. Self treatment is good to consider but …
IF the urine is cut off completely or nearly completely and you feel that urine is backing up…enough to start becoming painful…DO NOT play around with this condition…quickly you need an emergency room for a catheter. As much as many of us on this site would try to avoid standard medical treatments, do not mess around with a condition that can be potentially life threatening. If the urethra becomes largely closed then urine backs up and if not dealt with can cause organ failure and death.
In a male, one might have dealt with numerous UTIs over the years, but if the Prostate becomes infected, for instance, then in hours the urethra can be closed down because the urethra runs through the prostate. You might think at the outset, Oh, another UTI…no problem just take my favorite anti viral and its gone, but in another hour the bacterial infection has shut off the urine flow…complete urinary blockage…
Can you say “emergency”? In a mere three hours you can be doubled over in pain…get to an ER fast.
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Warning
Alka SeltzerAlka Seltzer
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What Are The Treatment Options
Treating a thickened bladder wall means treating the underlying condition that caused the change in the wall.
For example, UTI treatment usually involves a course of antibiotic therapy. To prevent UTIs, practice good hygiene. Wipe front to back to reduce the risk of germs from the rectum reaching the urethra.
Surgery can remove noncancerous tumors that are causing you symptoms. The tumors usually wont recur.
Cancerous growths can sometimes be removed with surgery, too. Additional cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, may also be necessary.
Prostate treatment is a somewhat controversial subject. Prostate surgery can sometimes lead to incontinence or erectile dysfunction. If prostate symptoms are minor, your doctor may recommend a watch-and-wait approach to monitor your prostate regularly. Prostate cancer is often a slow-growing cancer. This means aggressive treatment isnt always best.
If excess bladder emptying due to urge incontinence is a problem, your doctor may recommend anticholinergic drugs. These medications relax the detrusor muscle of the bladder.
If urinary retention is occurring due to BOO, your doctor may prescribe medication, such as tamsulosin, to help your urine flow be stronger.
Home Remedies For Uti Cranberry Juice
Proanthocyanidins in cranberries can help you in preventing the bacteria from getting in touch with the walls of urethra causing UTI. In addition, the cranberry juice has a mild antibiotic affect, so it is very useful for preventing urinary tract infections from coming back again. To utilize the cranberry juice for preventing UTI infections, you can follow the following steps:
- Drink 1/2 glass of the unsweetened cranberry juice per day for preventing UTI infections.
- Drink about 3 to 4 glasses of the unsweetened cranberry juice per day for preventing the infection from causing the damage to kidneys.
Pay attention: people with kidney stones should not use this solution.
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Home Remedies For Bladder Infection Blueberries
Blueberry that has bacteria-inhibiting properties can help in treating the bladder infection.
In addition, blueberries have also the antioxidants that are beneficial for the immune system. They also prevent the growth of bacteria, which causes bladder infection.
Way 1:
- You should have some fresh blueberries for your breakfast or add them to your favorite cereal.
Way 2:
- You make the fresh blueberry juice and drink it every day, especially at night and in the morning for quick results. You should remember that the juice is not mixed with any artificial sweetener.
You should add the juice or fresh blueberries in your daily diet, which is also a great way to prevent bladder infection.
Use Uva Ursi Herb As A Drink Or A Douche
- Add chopped fresh uva ursi to a glass of boiling water.
- Let it simmer for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain it and drink it or let it cool and douche your urethra with it.
Uva ursi, also known as bearberry or wild cranberry, has antiseptic and astringent properties that are useful in treating UTIs. You can drink it as tea or you can use it to douche your urethra.24
Tip: Drink 2 cups of the tea per day for a maximum of 5 days because it is potentially harmful to the liver.
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Can A Uti Go Away Overnight
However, the body can often resolve minor, uncomplicated UTIs on its own without the help of antibiotics. By some estimates, 2542% of uncomplicated UTI infections clear on their own. In these cases, people can try a range of home remedies to speed up recovery. Complicated UTIs will require medical treatment.
For Urinary Tract Infections
Since three of the most common causes of kidney discomfort occur in the urinary tract, here are some remedies to relieve pain in the kidneys related to the urinary tract:
1. Stay Hydrated
Hydration is key to relieving pain in the kidneys since water will help flush bacteria out of the body. Plus, staying hydrated will help clear out the urinary tract as a whole and work to eliminate any possible infections.
Many specialists recommend the 8×8 rule, meaning you should drink eight 8 oz. glasses of water a day. However, water intake is highly dependant on you and your health, so take this article into consideration when determining your daily amount of water intake.
2. Drink Cranberry Juice
While not scientifically proven, cranberry juice is known to be a remedy for urinary tract infections. If you choose to alternate between cranberry juice and water, be sure to choose a cranberry juice that isnt packed full of additional sweeteners. A cranberry supplement or pure cranberry juice is always the best way to go!
3. Take Probiotics
Its no secret that probiotics are beneficial for you, especially when it comes to fighting bacteria and kidney pain. Studies show that probiotics can improve kidney function and assist in processing waste too.
4. Drink Parsley Juice
You can also mix parsley into a smoothie to make drinking it more bearable. Check out these recipes for inspiration!
5. Take a Warm Epsom Salt Bath
6. Apply Heat
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Forward Improves Uti Treatment
As your primary care provider, Forward delivers one-to-one, personalized care for UTIs. You can schedule an appointment in seconds and see a doctor virtually or in person. Prescriptions come right to your door for added convenience, and we recommend the best home remedies for UTIs to keep you comfortable while you recover.
Consider Switching Birth Control Methods If You Have Repeat Bladder Infections
If you have trouble with repeat bladder infections, talk with a health care professional about your birth control. Consider switching to a new form of birth control if you use diaphragms, unlubricated condoms, or spermicide, all of which can increase your chances of developing a bladder infection. Consider using lubricated condoms without spermicide or using a nonspermicidal lubricant.
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What Is The Best Way To Treat A Uti
A UTI, or urinary tract infection, is a common problem among many women. It is characterized by painful and frequent urination, cloudy urine, and a fever with back pain, among other symptoms, and is caused by a growth of bacteria in the urinary tract. There are a few ways to treat a UTI to clear up the current infection, as well as ways to prevent it from returning and causing further UTI complications.
One of the best ways to treat a UTI is to drink a lot of water at the onset of symptoms. This can help flush the system and clear out bacteria. It is also often recommended to drink cranberry juice, but be sure to drink 100% cranberry juice, and not a cranberry juice cocktail. The sugar found in the juice cocktail can actually aggravate the symptoms. Taking cranberry pills is another option. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help with the pain.
In addition, try to urinate as frequently as possible. Do not have sexual intercourse while attempting to treat a UTI this can make symptoms worse, and is one of the leading causes of urinary tract infections. In addition, a hot bath may help with pain, but do not add any bubbles or bath oils to the water. Try to avoid eating sugary foods or drinking alcohol while attempting to treat a UTI.
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Symptoms Of A Kidney Infection
Kidney infection symptoms usually appear about 2 days after initial infection and can vary between children and adults. Common symptoms among adults include:
- pain in your abdomen, back, groin, or side
- frequent urination or the sensation of needing to urinate
- burning or pain while urinating
- blood or pus in your urine
- cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- fever
- chills
In children under 2 years old, a kidney infection may only come with a high fever as a symptom. Adults over 65 may only experience mental confusion and jumbled speech as their symptoms.
If a kidney infection isnt treated swiftly or appropriately, symptoms can become severe and result in , which is a life threatening condition. Sepsis symptoms include:
- chills
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Use Apple Cider Vinegar For Improved Renal Function
Apple cider vinegar contains malic acid, which has antibacterial properties that can help in treating kidney infections that are particularly caused by E. coli. Plus, it can help balance the pH levels in the body and prevent the infection from spreading.
Caution:
Cloudy Urine Or Blood In Urine
You may also see a small amount of blood in your urine. Sometimes this occurs from something as harmless as a strenuous workout. It could also be a sign of cystitis, bladder cancer, or another urinary tract problem.
Often, blood in urine can only be seen under a microscope. If you can see blood in your urine yourself or notice your urine turning cloudy, see your doctor, even if you have no other symptoms yet. It can be a sign of several potentially serious conditions. Its best to get an early diagnosis sooner rather than later.
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