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Things To Help Bladder Infection

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What Are The Treatment Options

7 Tips for a Healthy Bladder

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.

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.

How Do I Know If I Need Antibiotics To Treat My Uti

Once you have a UTI, home remedies and OTC medications will not cure a UTI. You will need antibiotics to cure your UTI. Once you start antibiotics, symptoms usually clear up in 2-3 days.

Even though the symptoms should clear up quickly, you should still take all the antibiotics your doctor prescribes for you. If you dont, the infection could come back even stronger the next time.

For an uncomplicated UTI, these antibiotics are prescribed most often:

  • Nitrofurantoin
  • Cephalexin

Also Check: How Is Bladder Cancer Staged

Take An Epsom Salt Bath

Both Epsom salts and warm water can ease pain. This can help make the uncomfortable side effects of the kidney infection a little more tolerable while you wait for the antibiotics to take effect.

Since abdominal pain is sometimes a symptom of antibiotics, as well as kidney infections, Epsom salts could also help even after symptoms from the kidney infection are resolved.

When To See A Healthcare Provider

How to Cure a Bladder Infection

Conversations about urinary symptoms can be uncomfortable, but if youre experiencing symptoms consistent with a UTI, its best to seek medical advice. Your provider can order tests if needed, discuss treatment options, and help you understand the cause of your infection, as well as providing strategies to prevent recurrences.

The sooner you seek help, the sooner those painful symptoms will be goneand you can go back to getting a good nights sleep.

Also Check: Cranberry Supplements For Bladder Infection

Go To The Bathroom More Frequently

Not going to the bathroom often enough gives the bacteria more time to multiply in the bladder. This is why it is important to go to the bathroom frequently so that you can encourage the faster elimination of bacteria. It is also a good idea to refrain from sex when battling a bladder infection. Sex has a tendency to push the bacteria farther up into the bladder.

Ten Ways To Help Prevent Bladder Infections

Here are ten easy things you can do to help prevent bladder infections:

  • Practice good hygiene dailyAs a general rule, women should always wipe from front to back after any visit to the bathroom. This will help keep germs and bacteria from coming in contact with your urethra.
  • Always, always, always void after sexVoiding after sex will flush existing bacteria from the urethra and lower your risk of infection.
  • Wash before and after sexBoth partners should wash their hands and genitals before and after sex to avoid passing unwelcomed bacteria into the vagina. This step is especially important for women who struggle with repeat infections.
  • Stay hydrated dailyIf youre dehydrated, youre decreasing your urine output, which means more minerals, germs and bacteria have a chance to build up and settle in the urinary tract or kidneys. Be sure to drink plenty of water and urinate often .
  • Dont hold itIf you feel the urge to go, stop what youre doing and go. Delayed urination concentrates the urine and allows bacteria to grow and spread.
  • Take a probioticBeneficial bacteria, known as probiotics, can help keep the urinary tract healthy and free from harmful bacteria. In particular, lactobacilli may help you prevent bladder infections.
  • Take showers instead of bathsBacteria grow more quickly in warm water and hot water. The Getwell doctors recommend avoiding hot tubs and baths to lower your risk of infection. The soap in bubble baths can irritate the urinary tract and should be avoided.
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    Does Cranberry Juice Prevent A Urinary Tract Infection

    Many people say that cranberry juice can help treat, or even prevent, a UTI. Researchers are currently looking into the topic, but havent found a definitive answer yet. Healthcare providers recommend drinking lots of fluids if you have, or have a history of getting, a UTI. Adding a glass of unsweetened cranberry juice to your diet isnt a proven way to prevent a UTI, but it typically wont hurt you either.

    About Urinary Tract Infections

    Bladder infection prevention tips

    Urinary tract infections are common infections that can affect the bladder, the kidneys and the tubes connected to them.

    Anyone can get them, but they’re particularly common in women. Some women experience them regularly .

    UTIs can be painful and uncomfortable, but usually pass within a few days and can be easily treated with antibiotics.

    This page is about UTIs in adults. There is a separate article about UTIs in children.

    This page covers:

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    What Is A Bladder Infection

    Bladder infection is a type of urinary tract infection caused by bacteria. Bladder infections tend to be more common in women than men.

    What Are Symptoms of a Bladder Infection?

    Symptoms of a bladder infection include:

    • Pain or a burning on urination
    • Urinary frequency
    • Lower abdominal pain or discomfort
    • Urine that’s dark, cloudy or strong smelling
    • Feeling unwell

    Symptoms of a bladder infection in young children may also include:

    • Fever of 100.4° F or above

    Foods To Eat For A Uti

    In order to recover from a UTI as soon as possible, you may want to try consuming the following foods:

    • Berries. Although researchers are still studying their effectiveness, its believed that eating cranberries, blueberries, and raspberries can help fight off a UTI. They contain proanthocyanidin, which has been shown to prevent infection-causing bacteria from adhering to the lining of the urinary tract.
    • Probiotic-rich foods. Try incorporating foods like plain Greek yogurt, pickles, and sauerkraut into your diet, since they contain good bacteria that can help combat an infection.
    • High-fiber foods. Foods that are high in fibersuch as bananas, beans, lentils, nuts, oats, and other whole grainscan help remove harmful bacteria from your body. They also encourage regular bowel movements, which can help relieve some bladder pressure.
    • Salmon. Cold-water fish contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation caused by a UTI. Fish oil supplements are another great alternative for individuals who dont eat fish always consult your doctor before adding any supplements to your diet.

    Recommended Reading: Best Supplements For Bladder Health

    Cut Back On Meat And Poultry

    Some studies, such as one published in August 2018 in the journal mBio, have linked contaminated poultry and meat to E.coli bacteria strains that can cause UTIs. These studies havent proven that eating meat or poultry causes UTIs. In fact, some E.coli can live in the intestines without causing any problems. However, bacteria from the gut can enter the urinary tract and cause infection. This risk is greater in women than men, because women have shorter urethras than men, meaning the bacteria has less distance to travel to reach the bladder.

    Cutting back on meat and focusing on fruits and veggies may slightly cut your risk of UTIs. According to a study of Buddhists in Taiwan, published in January 2020 in Scientific Reports, compared with nonvegetarians, vegetarians had a 16 percent lower risk of UTI.

    Related: Vegetarian Diet Linked to Lowered Risk Of Urinary Tract Infection

    Natural Remedies For Uti Relief

    Home remedies for Bladder Infection include use of barley, lemon juice ...

    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.

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    How Can You Improve Your Kidney Health

    Lifestyle habits that benefit your overall health, like staying hydrated and exercising regularly, can be vastly beneficial to your kidney health.

    Similarly, you shouldnt smoke, and you should go see your doctor for regular checkups to monitor your blood pressure. If youre at risk for kidney infections, you should have your kidneys tested and monitored.

    Avoid Feminine Hygiene Products With Scents And Chemicals

    Using feminine products that have perfumes and other irritating chemicals can introduce disruptive bacteria into your body, Dr. Sherry says. Even more so, Dr. Sherry stresses that if youre prone to UTIs, any products that will allow unwanted bacteria to enter your body should be avoided. Avoid diaphragms, vaginal sponges, diva cups, and sex toys if youre prone to UTIs, she advises.

    Also Check: Can Dehydration Cause Overactive Bladder

    What Can I Do If I Have Bladder Pain From Foods

    Living with bladder irritation can be uncomfortable. But you can take steps to remove irritants from your diet and reduce pain. Avoid foods that irritate your bladder, and remember that water is important. Drinking enough water helps you feel more comfortable after you eat foods that irritate your bladder.

    A note from Cleveland Clinic

    Bladder discomfort can be frustrating and even embarrassing. Conditions like IC can make you feel like you need to pee even after youve already gone to the bathroom, and your bladder can hurt a lot. But you can get help to reduce irritation. Talk to your healthcare provider about your bladder irritation and possible food and drink causes.

    Cranberries Watermelon And Cherries

    How to PREVENT UTI | 5 Natural Ways to AVOID Repeat Bladder Infection

    Cranberry juice has been traditionally used as an adjuvant for bladder infections. Studies show its effective as a preventative treatment, especially in women with recurrent incidence.

    So, it could be an aid in the treatment of a bladder infection when mixed with other fruits containing antioxidants and other bioactives. However, note that it isnt recommended for people taking anticoagulants.

    Ingredients

    • 1 c. of water

    Instructions

    • Wash and dry the cherries and cranberries
    • Separately, extract the pulp from the watermelon and discard the rind and seeds
    • Blend with the water for two to three minutes to a a smooth texture
    • Serve and drink in moderation
    • Add some fresh mint for an extra touch of flavor

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    What To Drink For A Uti

    Can you treat a UTI by drinking cranberry juice? The answer behind the infamous cranberry juice cure is mixed. In some clinical studies , the consumption of pure cranberry juice, cranberry extracts, or cranberry supplements helped reduce the risk of repeated UTIs. In any case, however, the benefit to drinking cranberry juice for a UTI is small. So, what should you drink for a UTI instead? Water is by far the best beverage choice for someone with a UTI. Drinking at least 12 8-ounce cups of water each day while you have an infection will help flush the bacteria from your system and can speed up the healing process.

    What Causes A Urinary Tract Infection

    Urinary tract infections are caused by microorganisms usually bacteria that enter the urethra and bladder, causing inflammation and infection. Though a UTI most commonly happens in the urethra and bladder, bacteria can also travel up the ureters and infect your kidneys.

    More than 90% of bladder infection cases are caused by E. coli, a bacterium normally found in the intestines.

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    Avoid Alcohol And Coffee

    The kidneys most important role is to filter out harmful substances and toxins, and both alcohol and caffeine can require extra work from the kidneys. This may hinder the process of healing from an infection.

    Alcohol and antibiotics also shouldnt be mixed, so avoid alcohol during your treatment for this reason as well.

    Bladder Wall Thickening In Men And Women

    How to Prevent Bladder Infections

    The underlying causes of a thickened bladder wall can differ between men and women.

    BOO is more common among men, because its often linked to prostate problems. An enlarged prostate forces the bladder to work harder to empty itself of urine. This in turn causes the bladder wall to thicken. Prostate treatment can help reduce the burden on the bladder.

    UTIs are more common among women. Thorough treatment can ease the strain on the bladder and allow thickened bladder walls to return to normal.

    Recommended Reading: How Common Is Bladder Cancer In Males

    Tips To Keep Your Bladder Healthy

    People rarely talk about bladder health, but everyone is affected by it. Located in the lower abdomen, the bladder is a hollow organ, much like a balloon, that stores urine. Urine contains waste and extra fluid left over after the body takes what it needs from what we eat and drink. Each day, adults pass about a quart and a half of urine through the bladder and out of the body.

    As people get older, the bladder changes. The elastic bladder tissue may toughen and become less stretchy. A less flexible bladder cannot hold as much urine as before and might make you go to the bathroom more often. The bladder wall and pelvic floor muscles may weaken, making it harder to empty the bladder fully and causing urine to leak.

    While you cant control everything that affects your bladder, here are 15 steps you can take to keep it as healthy as possible:

  • Use the bathroom often and when needed. Try to urinate at least once every 3 to 4 hours. Holding urine in your bladder for too long can weaken your bladder muscles and make a bladder infection more likely.
  • Be in a relaxed position while urinating. Relaxing the muscles around the bladder will make it easier to empty the bladder. For women, hovering over the toilet seat may make it hard to relax, so it is best to sit on the toilet seat.
  • Wipe from front to back after using the toilet. Women should wipe from front to back to keep gut bacteria from getting into the urethra. This step is most important after a bowel movement.
  • 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:

    More severe risks of using antibiotics include:

    Read Also: Does Bladder Cancer Cause Back Pain

    Things You Can Do Yourself

    To help ease symptoms of a urinary tract infection :

    • takeparacetamolup to 4 times a day to reduce pain and a high temperature for people with a UTI, paracetamol is usually recommended over NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or aspirin
    • you can give childrenliquid paracetamol
    • rest and drink enough fluids so you pass pale urine regularly during the day
    • avoid having sex

    Some people take cystitis sachets or cranberry drinks and products every day to prevent UTIs from happening, which may help. However, there’s no evidence they help ease symptoms or treat a UTI if the infection has already started.

    How Lemonaid Can Help You Get Uti Treatment Asap

    Which healing foods prevent urinary system infections?

    Lemonaids UTI service makes it quick and convenient for you to get antibiotics to treat your UTI–so convenient that you dont even have to go to a doctors office!

    Instead, you can have an online visit with one of our US-based, US-licensed doctors and nurse practitioners via LemonaidHealth.com

    If they determine that you have a UTI, they will prescribe you the antibiotic nitrofurantoin , trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole , or cephalexin

    You can use Lemonaid’s convenient mobile UTI service as long as you are of female birth sex, 18 years or older, and have not reached menopause yet.

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    Check If It’s A Urinary Tract Infection

    Symptoms of a urinary tract infection may include:

    • pain or a burning sensation when peeing
    • needing to pee more often than usual during the night
    • pee that looks cloudy, dark or has a strong smell
    • needing to pee suddenly or more urgently than usual
    • needing to pee more often than usual
    • lower tummy pain or pain in your back, just under the ribs
    • a high temperature, or feeling hot and shivery
    • a very low temperature below 36C

    Seek Help From A Professional

    The first thing that you should do if you suspect that you have a bladder infection is to perform a search for a gynecologist near me that can help treat the infection. If you do indeed have an infection, you will need a prescribed antibiotic to clear it up. It is important to note that many sexually transmitted infections can lead to symptoms that are similar to a bladder infection. This makes it important to not try to self-diagnose the problem. A trained professional will be able to properly diagnose the problem and prescribe the right course of treatment.

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