Urinary tract infection (UTI) is defined as the infection which affects the regions connected with the urinary tract. Bladder infections in the lower portions of the tract are termed as simple cystitis while the infections which affect the kidney are called pylonephritis. Patients suffering from UTI complain of pain and the urge for frequent urination along with mild fever.
These signs and symptoms of urinary tract infection should be dealt with seriously and prompt measures and actions taken at home can lead to good results and fast recovery in most patients.
Some Easy Methods of Treating Urinary Tract Infection
Cure with Water
Drinking plenty of water and fluids helps in curing urinary tract infection naturally. It cleanses the body by diluting and flushing out unnecessary substances of urinary tract.
Barley water, tender coconut water and butter milk are also good solutions for this condition. Par boiled barley is the best diuretic which neutralizes the acid levels in the bladder relieving severe burning.
Use of Baking Soda
Intake of baking soda neutralizes the acidity in the urine. One teaspoon of baking soda with a glass of water eases the burning sensation and also prevents the syndrome.
Intake of Juices
Juices are excellent sources of antioxidants and they kill the unfamiliar bacteria in our body. Blue berry juice has the property to restrict the growth of bacteria causing infection within the urinary tract. Consumption of juice of blue berry fruit or just handful of shredded berries in the morning breakfast works effectively in curing the infection.
Cranberry juice also prohibits the growth of bacteria which sticks to the cells of urinary tract. It can be consumed directly or mixed with apple juice to improve the taste. Juices of lemon, sugarcane, banana stem and radish also work wonders if taken regularly.
Eating Fruits
Fruits which provide vitamin C act as a fighter against urinary tract infection. Vitamin C helps in acidifying the bladder and prevents the formation of bacteria. Banana, guava, melon, pineapple, raspberry, tomato, papaya and kiwifruit are rich natural sources of vitamin C.
Salads prepared with some of these fruits flavored with a dash of olive oil and lemon juice taste good and can be eaten on a regular basis. This provides vitamin C as well as quinolic acid required for treating the infection.
Aromatherapy
Mix equal parts of sandalwood oil, bergamot oil, tea tree oil, frankincense and juniper oil. This oil is to be rubbed over the bladder area for three to four days. It is used from time to time to prevent further infection. This aromatherapy treatment is considered to be excellent home remedy for reducing the severity of symptoms of urinary tract infection.
Common Home Treatments with Leaves and Petals
Blue brinjal leaves are very commonly used to cure urinary tract infection. These leaves are boiled in water for some time and then cooled and strained.This decoction is consumed one ounce twice daily for effective results. Decoction of boiled lotus petals and pink rose petals is equally good in treating infection.
Role of some Unusual Herbs
Some herbs such as goldenseal and uva ursi work as an antimicrobial and antiseptic agent. They are diuretic and increase renal circulation. They also stimulate tubular function. Herbs like shilajit and punarnava are well known for their diuretic properties.
Gallium aparine, usnea lichen, buchu, Echinacea, Oregon grape root and horsetail are some of the herbs used for their astringent and tissue healing properties. These herbs are available in capsule or tea form. Grapeseed extract has antifungal and antiviral characteristics. Five to ten grams of liquid extract is recommended in treating severe infections.
Yummiest Remedy
A salad with granny smith apples and some white vinegar and salt works as a magical cure to treat urinary tract infection immediately. Use vinegar as a dip for apple slices and drink left over vinegar.
Hot Compression
Use of heating pad on the lower abdominal area provides relief to the pain. Hot water bag can be alternatively used. It not only decreases inflammation but also prevents the further spread of infection. Keep the heat setting low, and limit it to 15 minutes at a time to avoid burns. Most fungus and bacteria cannot sustain hot temperatures.
Avoid Artificial Sweetener
All artificial sweeteners contain aspartame which is used by diabetic patients. It aggravates the bladder infection and causes irritability in patients.
Change in Food Habits
Cooking in coconut oil helps in killing infection causing bacteria and fungus. A diet consists of processed cheese, chocolates and dairy products and bakery products should be avoided.Carbonated drinks like beer, soda and fizzy drinks should be restricted. Spicy food, caffeine and cigarettes are also harmful for the patients suffering from urinary tract infection as they cause burning sensation in urinary passage.
Dress Comfortably
Wearing loose fitting cotton clothes are always recommended. Tight undergarments and stiff clothing give more room to infection. Women should wear cotton underwear or cotton-lined panty hose to help stay fresher and dryer. Men should prefer boxer shorts.
Some More Tips
Do not hold the urge to urinate. No matter wherever or whenever, use toilets as holding urine for longer times will only add up to formation of more bacteria and flare up the infection. Use clean and hygienic wash rooms. After urinating and bowel movement, wipe from front to back to keep bacteria away from urethra.Patients with urinary tract infection should clean up before and after having sexual intercourse. Use a condom instead of a diaphragm as the latter irritates the bladder. Avoid using lubricants and spermicides while having sex. Do not use deodorant sprays or other feminine products such as douches and powders in the genital areas to avoid irritation in urethra.
Always prefer showers over bathtubs as soaking in tubs provide a breeding ground for the bacteria. Physical alertness and active daily routine will keep immune system in good shape.As recurrences in urinary tract infections are very common in women, it is important to take proper care and treatment. Any signs of deterioration or growth in infection should be consulted with a medical expert at the earliest.
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