Wednesday, March 27, 2024

How To Stop A Bladder Infection From Getting Worse

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How To Prevent A Uti After Intercourse

Urinary Tract Infection – Overview (signs and symptoms, pathophysiology, causes and treatment)
  • Urinating before sex is also recommended to wash off bacteria.
  • Always clean your genital area properly with warm water after intercourse .
  • if your method of contraception is adding up in infection, switch to some other birth control method.
  • If you get UTI infection more frequently, ask your doctor for antibiotic prescription. You may have to take one dose after intercourse to prevent UTI.

How To Cure Bladder Pain

This article was co-authored by Luba Lee, FNP-BC, MS. Luba Lee, FNP-BC is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner and educator in Tennessee with over a decade of clinical experience. Luba has certifications in Pediatric Advanced Life Support , Emergency Medicine, Advanced Cardiac Life Support , Team Building, and Critical Care Nursing. She received her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Tennessee in 2006.There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 4,689 times.

Its normal to feel some discomfort or pressure in your bladder sometimes. However, if this pain doesnt go away, then there might be an underlying cause for it. You might have a urinary tract infection , bladder infection, or a condition called interstitial cystitis . If you are feeling bladder pain or a frequent urge to urinate, then dont panic. There are plenty of medical and home treatments to relieve your symptoms. With the right steps, youll feel much better and be able to get on with your life.

How Do You Know If Youre Dealing With A Standard Uti Or Severe Kidney Infection

Both are technically forms of UTIs. A standard UTI, though, typically just means you’re dealing with cystitis, or inflammation of the bladder. That inflammation causes those typical UTI symptoms like painful or burning urination and urgent or frequent urination, explains Dr. Mueller.

But a kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis, is caused by the same bacteria and oftentimes results from an untreated bladder infection. These symptoms are typically much more severe.

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Tips For Avoiding A Uti

The urge to urinate frequently, pain and burning when you try to go the symptoms of a urinary tract infection are never pleasant. Fortunately, the condition is highly treatable.

At Prima Medicine, with locations in Fairfax and South Riding, Virginia, our health experts provide fast and effective treatments for UTIs. But, we also want to help keep our patients from getting these uncomfortable infections in the first place.

Urinary tract infections result when any part of the urinary tract becomes infected, including the kidneys, bladder, ureters, or urethra. The good news is that with a few simple changes, you can reduce your odds of developing UTIs. In this blog, we share our top tips for avoiding UTIs.

A Brief Intro To Utis

How To Get Rid Of Uncomfortable Uti Feeling

A UTI is an infection in the bladder or other areas of the urinary tract, like the urethra or kidneys, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. The infection is caused by bacteria.

Bacteria can enter the body, but the body usually has its own natural prevention. Urine flows through and flushes out bacteria, but sometimes the bacteria hasnt been fully flushed.

While UTIs can be uncomfortable and painful, they are easily treated with antibiotics. It is important to see your doctor if you have any of the following UTI symptoms.

  • Pain or discomfort during urination
  • A persistent need to urinate after having just gone
  • Cloudy urine

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact a specialist immediately.

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How Long Does It Take To Heal From Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections

In total, I had painful, recurrent urinary tract infections for more than 4 years. Many people I have spoken with have suffered for many more. The longer you have experienced recurrent infection, the longer it may take to heal.

Commitment to the process of healing is so important. It may take months or years of consistent treatment for you to feel truly recovered. Hopefully, along the way, your symptoms will continually improve, and you can take your life back.

For me, it took around 9 months from the moment I stopped antibiotics and the pill, and adopted my final regimen.

Recovering from recurrent UTI is not a finite process.

I know my bladder is not invincible. I know I could still get a UTI now, just as I always could. The difference is, I now understand better what contributed to my recurrent UTIs. I also have the knowledge and resources to ensure I never again reach the place I was once in.

UTIs no longer rule my life. I no longer live with the daily fear of a recurrence. I want to help others find answers.

How To Stop A Prolapse From Getting Worse

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You did it. You birthed a bouncing baby and your body is in recovery from enduring the sheer awesomeness that is childbirth. As the months that follow unfold and that baby starts to grow, you cant help but shake the feeling that something is not quite right down there. Why is peeing so weird now? When did my body decide it was okay to just leak out said pee every time I cough? Am I supposed to just wear panty liners all day every day just in case someone makes me laugh? Why does it feel like there is a bulge in my vagina?

Though it is a common post-birth issue, the first time you hear that you have pelvic organ prolapse may be frustrating and quite upsetting. I mean, your body was made to have babies. Why would something so natural cause such an issue?

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Why Do Some Women Have Recurring Cystitis

Your body has defences to prevent germs from causing cystitis. The mucus around your vagina and opening of your urethra is slightly acidic which prevents bacteria from multiplying. Although bacteria may thrive in urine, you empty your bladder regularly which flushes urine out. Also, the cells that line your urethra and bladder have some resistance against bacteria.

In most cases, there is no apparent reason why cystitis returns. There is usually no problem with your bladder or defence system that can be identified. It is possible there may be a slight alteration in the ability of the body to resist bacteria getting into the bladder and causing infection. A slight variation in the body’s defence may tip the balance in favour of bacteria to cause infection.

For some women, one of the following may contribute:

What Should You Not Do With A Prolapse

Urinary Tract Infections, Animation.

You may have noticed a bulge in your vaginal wall, a lower hanging uterus or experienced a change in your urine, stool, or discharge pattern that makes you suspect a pelvic organ prolapse. As you seek medical advice, it is important to begin to treat your conditions by cutting back on strenuous exercise until you can build up your pelvic floor muscles through direct treatment. Prolapse can be frustrating to deal with to say the very least, but if there must be a silver lining, it is that the doctor has ordered you to get another family member to move that couch.

Here are the things to avoid when you have pelvic organ prolapse:

  • Avoid straining while on the toilet
  • Avoid being on your feet for long periods of time
  • Avoid lifting, pulling or straining
  • Avoid an intense workout routine until you have a great core / pelvic floor strategy.

Here are the things TO DO when you have pelvic organ prolapse:

  • Make sure you hydrate frequently throughout the day
  • Eat all the fiber. Beans, veggies, fruits, you name it.
  • Educate yourself on prolapse, the core system, all of the connections that can increase and decrease pressure.
  • Consider a pelvic floor therapist, pelvic floor trained teacher, or Online program to guide you through healing.

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I Stopped Taking Antibiotics For Recurrent Uti

I had tried every UTI home remedy I could find. Nothing helped.

Id been fighting this for 3.5 years. Keeping my life together and keeping up appearances. I even managed to travel to the Balkans to volunteer for a few months.

Sarajevo was the turning point. I like to think of it as the final frontier.

I got a UTI that never went away. The symptoms stayed with me despite taking a longer course of two different types of strong antibiotics. These were prescribed to me as a last resort.

Without finding out what was causing my UTI, I knew there was little chance of finding the right antibiotic and I wasnt willing to continue taking them without being better informed.

My body was suffering. It had become sensitive to everything.

I would get itchy daily, still had yeast infections constantly, and my contraceptive pill had ceased to control my cycle. I felt like a complete mess.

So I stopped taking antibiotics.

For me this was like taking a deep breath and jumping from a cliff into the sea, without knowing if I could really swim.

Know When To Seek Help

Mild UTIs can sometimes get better on their own but there are potentially serious complications when a UTI becomes severe.

Being able to recognise cystitis and other UTI symptoms is important so the infection can be treated before it gets severe and may potentially spread to your kidneys. If your kidneys become infected this can lead to kidney damage or even kidney failure.

If you have had UTI symptoms for more than 2 days or self-care treatments arent working and you arent feeling any better its best to seek professional medical advice quickly.

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Urinate Before And After Sex

Sexual activity increases the chances of getting a UTI, especially if youre a woman. Thats because bacteria can easily get into the urethra during sex.

To reduce your risk, pee immediately before and after sex. The idea is to flush out bacteria that may cause UTIs.

Its also a good idea to gently wash your genital area before sex. This can help keep the area clean and reduce the chance of bacteria spreading to your urethra.

Have A Glass Of Cranberry Juice

Recurring UTI In Women Can Be Cured And Prevented Effectively ...

For women especially, a daily glass of cranberry juice can help lower your risk of getting recurrent UTIs. The reason cranberry juice helps is that these powerful berries have a natural compound that helps keep UTI-causing bacteria away from the urinary tract.

Cranberry juice is also effective if you notice the telltale symptoms of a UTI beginning. The compound it contains can help prevent the UTI from developing or getting worse. Be sure to opt for beverages with 100% cranberry juice instead of cocktails, which also contain other juices.

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What Is A Urinary Tract Infection

A urinary tract infection is an infection of the urinary system. This type of infection can involve your urethra , kidneys or bladder, .

Your urine typically doesnt contain bacteria . Urine is a byproduct of our filtration systemthe kidneys. When waste products and excess water is removed from your blood by the kidneys, urine is created. Normally, urine moves through your urinary system without any contamination. However, bacteria can get into the urinary system from outside of the body, causing problems like infection and inflammation. This is a urinary tract infection .

How Are Urinary Tract Infections Treated

You will need to treat a urinary tract infection. Antibiotics are medicines that kill bacteria and fight an infection. Antibiotics are typically used to treat urinary tract infections. Your healthcare provider will pick a drug that best treats the particular bacteria thats causing your infection. Some commonly used antibiotics can include:

  • Nitrofurantoin.
  • Doxycycline.
  • Quinolones .

Its very important that you follow your healthcare providers directions for taking the medicine. Dont stop taking the antibiotic because your symptoms go away and you start feeling better. If the infection is not treated completely with the full course of antibiotics, it can return.

If you have a history of frequent urinary tract infections, you may be given a prescription for antibiotics that you would take at the first onset of symptoms. Other patients may be given antibiotics to take every day, every other day, or after sexual intercourse to prevent the infection. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best treatment option for you if you have a history of frequent UTIs.

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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 you’re 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

Drink Plenty Of Water

How to GET RID of Bladder Infections | Recurrent UTI

Staying hydrated and drinking as much water as possible can help keep your urinary tract healthy. According to research, regularly drinking at least six 8-ounce glasses of water each day can significantly cut your risk of getting a UTI. And, if youre someone who experiences recurrent UTIs, you may need to drink even more water.

Of course, your urinary needs will depend on a number of factors, such as how much you sweat, how much you exercise, and your body composition, but a good goal is to drink enough water that your urine is clear or very pale yellow.

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Practice Good Sexual Hygiene

Some sexual intercourse bacteria and other microbes into the urinary tract. Practicing good sexual hygiene can help to reduce this risk.

Examples of good sexual hygiene include:

  • urinating before and immediately after sex
  • using barrier contraception, such as a condom
  • washing the genitals, especially the foreskin, before and after engaging in sexual acts or intercourse
  • washing the genitals or changing condoms if switching from anal to vaginal sex
  • ensuring that all sexual partners are aware of any current or past UTIs

Cystitis In Men And Older People

Men tend to get cystitis later in life. Where trouble with urine flow is a symptom, this may indicate that the underlying cause is a problem with their prostate gland.

Cystitis is common in older people, particularly if they are unwell. Bladder catheters and some urinary-tract operations may also increase the risk of cystitis.

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Potential Complications Of A Bladder Infection

Without treatment, bacteria from the bladder can travel up to the kidneys and cause a kidney infection. This can cause pain on the sides of the body . You may also experience fever and chills.

is another possible complication of infection. Although bladder infections can sometimes cause a low grade fever, it is important to let your doctor know if you experience a high fever and shaking or chills.

When treating a bladder infection, take the full course of medication, even if you start feeling better. Completing the treatment reduces the risk of complications.

When To Get Medical Advice

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It’s a good idea to see your GP if you think you might have a UTI, particularly if:

  • you have symptoms of an upper UTI
  • the symptoms are severe or getting worse
  • the symptoms haven’t started to improve after a few days
  • you get UTIs frequently

Your GP can rule out other possible causes of your symptoms by testing a sample of your urine and can prescribe antibiotics if you do have an infection.

Antibiotics are usually recommended because untreated UTIs can potentially cause serious problems if they’re allowed to spread.

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Home Remedies For Bladder Infections

A bladder infection can cause great pain and discomfort.

Also called cystitis, it occurs when the bladder becomes infected and inflamed.

Affecting more women than men, this condition is commonly caused byE. coli bacterial infection .

It causes burning or stinging sensation during urination, frequent need to urinate, dark and strong-smelling urine, pain in the lower abdominal area, fever, exhaustion, and feeling of illness .

Here we have a list of home remedies for bladder infections that are effective and easy.

When To Contact A Doctor

If a person suspects that they have a UTI, they should ask a healthcare professional for advice about the best way to treat it.

Antibiotics may not always be necessary, but it is still important to seek medical attention. This reduces the risk of developing a more severe infection that is harder to treat.

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about treating UTIs.

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