Urinary tract infection(UTI) is a major concern amongst women. The chance of getting UTI is very high in women as urethra is shorter. Infections can happen in the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys. Studies reveal that women are more prone to this infection than men. Coitus can also get the bacteria entered into the urinary tract. The most common cause of this infection is E-coli bacteria and normally lives in your intestines.
The symptoms of a UTI can be annoying and painful. You may have a UTI if you notice these symptoms:
- Burning sensation or pain when urinating
- Constant feeling or urge to urinate but passing only a little urine
- Pain in the lower abdomen
- Changes in the urine color that is dark yellow or cloudy accompanied by a weird smell.
- Mild fever and fatigue.
- Pelvic pain in women, especially in the center and around the area of the pubic bone.
Your doctor will confirm UTI with these above symptoms or will conduct a urine test. If the infection spreads to the kidneys, it may cause serious consequences. The treatment for UTI includes lots of antibiotics, apart from these treatments there are plenty of home remedies. This article will provide you the amazing home remedies to cure a UTI.
Types of urinary tract infection and causes
Urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria enters the urinary tract through the urethra and starts multiplying in the bladder. Symptoms and signs vary depending on which part of the urinary symptoms is affected.
Here are the common types of urinary tract infection:
Urethritis- Infection of the urethra
This type of UTI occurs when the GI(Gastrointestinal) bacteria enter the urethra from the anus. Hence the urethra becomes inflamed and irritated. As female urethra is close to the vagina, sexually transmitted infections(STI) may also cause urethritis. Both men and women are affected by this condition.
Cystitis- Infection of the bladder
Cystitis is the inflammation of the bladder. Cystitis can affect both the sexes and ages but more prevalent among women than men. This is because of women’s anatomy, the urethra is very shorter typically one and a half inch long. The E-coli bacteria begin to multiply in the bladder and clings to the lining of the bladder wall. If cystitis left untreated, these bacterias can spread to the kidneys.
Acute Pyelonephritis- Infection of the kidneys
Pyelonephritis is the inflammation of the kidneys caused by the bacterial infections. The symptoms may include fever, burning sensation while urinating and frequent urination. The infection is spread by the urinary tract and may produce serious complications like sepsis, pus around the kidneys and kidney failure.
Amazing home remedies to treat UTI
Well, you have known the types, causes, symptoms and how infections occur. Most UTI’s are not serious but keep an eye out if you have recurrent UTI. Don’t panic or stress yourselves, if you suffer from UTI. There are effective home remedies that can save you from this problem. Below are proven home remedies that give visible results.
Sip cranberry juice
Cranberry juice is hailed for years to prevent and cure urinary tract infections. Cranberry contains an active ingredient called A-type proanthocyanidin which is effective against the bacteria that causes infections. This specific A-type proanthocyanidin prevents the bacteria from clinging to the bladder wall. Drinking cranberry juice will make the urine more acidic, creating an unfriendly environment for the bacteria.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a good home remedy to get rid of UTI. Apple cider vinegar makes the urine alkaline thus curbing the growth of the bacteria E-coli. When you feel better with UTI, you should stop using apple cider vinegar. The bacteria attached to the lining of the bladder or urethra will leave the tissue inflamed. As vinegar is acidic it may increase the acidity of urine. Passing more acidic urine may aggravate the inflamed tissue. Apple cider can also prevent the recurrence of UTI.
Probiotics
Probiotics are good bacteria that can limit recurrent urinary tract infections. Probiotics restore the natural environment which works against the bad bacteria that cause infections. Adding probiotics like yogurt to your daily diet regime can cut UTI infections. You can also drink which kefir is high in probiotics.
Baking soda
Baking soda neutralizes the acid in the urine. It can also detoxify your kidneys and stop infections spreading. It will also elevate the burning sensation while urinating. To treat UTI, Take half to one teaspoon of baking soda and mix it with a glass of water. It is recommended to drink it on empty stomach. Taking baking soda more than the recommended dosage can cause a serious complication. Using baking soda for UTIs while pregnant can harm both you and your baby.
Parsley
Parsley has numerous health benefits and it can treat a UTI also. Parsley has certain anti-fungal properties and can soothe the urinary tract. It acts as a diuretic, which can flush the bad bacteria from the bladder and urinary tract. Chop some leaves of parsley and add it to boiling water. Let it boil in simmer for 8-10 minutes. Then strain the leaves and drink the concoction. Follow this for a seven-day course to see visible results.
Ginger Tea
Ginger is a miracle healer and can work wonders for UTI too. Studies have found that ethanol extracts of ginger can work against E-coli bacteria which causes the infection. Grate few amounts of ginger and boil the grated ginger in simmer for about 5 minutes. Strain the tea and add honey to taste. Use this remedy 2-3 times a day for a week.
Barley Water
This home remedy of drinking barley water is often suggested by doctors along with antibiotics. Barley water is very effective in treating urinary tract infections. Being a diuretic, barley water will flush away the bacterias from your urinary system. Boil barley in one liter of water for 10 to 15 minutes, strain it and drink it hot or cool. Drink this barley water daily to keep bacteria away.
In addition to the above said remedies drink lots of water to get rid of UTI. Drinking plenty of water can flush out bacteria from your system. Aim to drink 2-3 liters of water per day. If you know any other home remedies apart from these, please don’t hesitate to let us know. Comment your home remedies and tips below.
