Tuesday, March 19, 2024

How To Cure A Urinary Tract Infection In A Woman

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How Common Are Urinary Tract Infections

UTI symptoms in Women, How to treat urinary tract infection?

Urinary tract infections are very common, occurring in 1 out of 5 women sometime in their lifetime. Though UTIs are common in women, they can also happen to men, older adults and children. One to 2% of children develop urinary tract infections. Each year, 8 million to 10 million visits to doctors are for urinary tract infections.

How Do I Know If I Have Uti

There are broadly two types of UTIs:

  • Cystitis: This is the infection of the bladder and it is the most common form of this infection. The symptoms of this infection are restricted to the lower urinary tract.
  • If you have the following symptoms, it may mean that you are having a lower urinary tract infection-

    • Frequent urge to pee
    • Foul-smelling urine
    • Pelvic or rectal pain

    2. Pyelonephritis: This is when the infection has spread to the upper urinary tract and the symptoms include having fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting among others. If this is the case then you should consider consulting with a medical professional immediately.

    However, it is important to remember that some of the common symptoms associated with UTIs- such as burning sensation while peeing, also overlap with pelvic inflammatory disease . This is an infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and cervix.

    This is why it is important to distinguish between the two and get necessary checks done to eliminate the possibility.

    Consider Switching Birth Control

    Some older research suggests that certain contraceptives may contribute to the cause of UTIs in some women.

    If you use diaphragms, spermicides, or nonlubricated condoms and get frequent UTIs, it may be worth talking to your doctor to find other methods of birth control.

    Its not uncommon for UTIs to go away on their own with at-home care and without the use of antibiotics.

    Some research estimates that 25 to 42 percent of UTIs can go away on their own. This is usually only common in women with no other health issues.

    However, there are some serious risks that can come from leaving a UTI untreated, including pyelonephritis and .

    UTIs are painful, but with treatment, you can alleviate an infection and prevent recurrent infections. Talk with your doctor if you have symptoms of a UTI. With proper treatment, you should begin to feel better in a few days.

    Take your antibiotics as instructed even after your symptoms improve to prevent complications or a secondary infection.

    If the UTI doesnt resolve after antibiotic treatment or you end up with multiple episodes of a UTI, your doctor will likely do further testing.

    This could be in the form of:

    You may be referred to a urologist, depending on the severity of your UTI or if you have chronic infections.

    Certain strains of bacteria can cause UTIs. They can range from mild to severe. The degree of severity depends on multiple factors, including:

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    Do You Need To See A Doctor To Get Antibiotics For A Uti

    You need to speak with your doctor or a licensed medical professional to be prescribed antibiotics for a UTI. This can usually be done in person, at the doctor, or over the phone.

    If this is your first UTI or your symptoms are severe it may be helpful to get treated in person to rule out the possibility of sexually transmitted infections.

    Creating Stronger Strains Of Bacteria

    Home Remedies for Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) in Women ...

    Over time, some species of bacteria have become resistant to traditional antibiotics. According to some research , several species of E. coli, the primary cause of UTIs, are showing increasing drug resistance.

    The more a person uses an antibiotic, the greater the risk of the bacteria developing resistance. This is even more likely when people do not follow a doctors instructions to complete the full prescribed course of treatment.

    It is essential to continue a course of antibiotics until the end date that the doctor provides. People should also never share antibiotics with others.

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    How Is A Uti Diagnosed

    To find out whether you have a UTI, your doctor or nurse will test a clean sample of your urine. This means you will first wipe your genital area with a special wipe. Then you will collect your urine in midstream in a cup. Your doctor or nurse may then test your urine for bacteria to see whether you have a UTI, which can take a few days.

    If you have had a UTI before, your doctor may order more tests to rule out other problems. These tests may include:

    • A cystogram. This is a special type of x-ray of your urinary tract. These x-rays can show any problems, including swelling or kidney stones.
    • A cystoscopic exam. The cystoscope is a small tube the doctor puts into the urethra to see inside of the urethra and bladder for any problems.

    Home Remedies For Uti

    1. Drink Plenty of Fluids

    Drinking water or fluids throughout the day helps flush bacteria from your system. A 2013 study conducted at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas found that chronic low fluid intake may be an important factor in the pathogenesis of urinary tract infections just one of many reasons to stay hydrated. Drink at least one glass of water for every meal and snack of the day in order to flush out bacteria that can lead to infection.

    2. Urinate Often

    Urinating often and when the urge arises ensures that bacteria isnt growing in urine that stays in the bladder. Its also important to urinate soon after sexual intercourse in order to flush out bacteria that may have entered the urethra. Studies have found that holding urine for a long time allows bacterial to multiply within the urinary tract, resulting in a urinary tract infection.

    3. Stay Clean and Dry

    Women should wipe from front to back, especially after a bowel movement. This ensures that bacteria doesnt get into the urethra. Its also important to wear loose-fitting clothes and underwear, which allows air to keep the urethra dry. Wearing tight jeans or material like nylon can be problematic because moisture can be trapped, allowing bacteria to grow.

    4. Avoid Using Spermicides

    5. Probiotics

    6. Cranberry

    7. Garlic

    8. D-Mannose

    9. Vitamin C

    10. Clove Oil

    11. Myrrh Oil

    12. Oregano Oil

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    What Are Possible Complications Of Urinary Tract Infections

    • In some cases, the infection can spread to the kidneys and result in pyelonephritis.
    • Severe cases of pyelonephritis can lead to kidney scarring.
    • In rare cases, the bacteria causing the urinary tract infection can enter the bloodstream and lead to , a very serious condition that can sometimes result in death.

    How Do You Know If You Have A Urinary Tract Infection

    Urinary Tract Infection In Women | Causes & Treatment

    Often, UTIs start almost asymptomatic . You may have an urge to urinate, but then when you go to the bathroom, you can’t seem to go. Or you can only relieve yourself a tiny bit, and then you’re making a beeline for the restroom again just minutes after you’ve walked out. Maybe you feel a bit of burning or tingling when you pee. A lot of women don’t seem to think much of their symptoms at this point.

    When these mild symptoms start to happen a few times in a row, women often begin to notice. But sometimes, things progress a little further, and a mild fever or pelvic pain starts to develop before we acknowledge something is wrong.

    This could be because you’ve had symptoms before and had them dismissed by a doctor. A recent study showed that the test commonly used to diagnose UTI isn’t always accurate. Researchers discovered that the standard culture missed the presence of pathogenic bacteria almost 20% of the time.

    So if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t get a positive result on your bacteria culture test, and your doctor isnt giving you answers be sure to seek a second opinion, and you may want to try out the more natural remedies in this article.

    Sometimes what feels like a UTI or a painful bladder is because of a condition known as Interstitial Cystitis. Either way, your provider should be working with you to find out the cause of your symptoms.

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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.

    When To See A Doctor

    In many cases, if you use home remedies at the very first sign of a urinary tract infection, you may not have to visit your doctor. However, if your symptoms continue for a day or more, you need to get qualified medical attention.

    Dr. John P. Cunha on eMedicineHealth recommends seeing a doctor for symptoms of a urinary infection in the following circumstances:

    • Your UTI symptoms last for more than 24 hours and dont get better with home remedies
    • You have a fever and chills
    • Along with the burning sensation when you urinate, you have nausea and vomiting
    • You are pregnant, have diabetes, or are undergoing chemotherapy

    Any toddler with a UTI, child or elderly person should always see a doctor if a bladder infection or other urinary infection is suspected.

    A urine test that shows evidence of bacteria or germs usually is enough to confirm if treatment is needed for a UTI.

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    Ease Your Urinary Woes With Sips Of Green Tea

    • Add a tablespoon of green tea to warm water.
    • Let it soak for 2 to 3 minutes.
    • Strain it and drink it.

    Catechin is a component of green tea which has antimicrobial properties. Green tea also has diuretic properties to help flush out the bacteria from your urinary system.21 You can sip 4 to 5 cups of warm green tea throughout the day.

    Urinary Infections In Children

    How to Treat a Urinary Tract Infection During Pregnancy ...

    A urinary infection in a child needs to be investigated as it may indicate a more serious condition.

    The most common urinary system condition is urinary reflux. With this condition, the bladder valve isnt working properly and allows urine to flow back to the kidneys, increasing the risk of a kidney infection.

    Urinary reflux and the associated infections can scar or permanently damage the kidney, and can also lead to:

    • high blood pressure
    • toxaemia in pregnancy
    • kidney failure.

    Urinary reflux tends to run in families, so its important to screen children as early as possible if a close relative is known to have the problem.

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    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.

    Home Remedies For Urinary Tract Infection

    There are no home remedies that can cure urinary tract infection but there are some things which you can do to help your medication better. The home remedies for urinary tract infections may help your body to clear the infection faster. Consuming cranberries can help cure the urinary tract infections because there is a chemical that is present in the cranberries which prevents the various types of bacteria from attaching to the lining of your bladder.

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    What Is The Definition Of A Urinary Tract Infection

    A urinary tract infection is an infection that can occur in any area of the urinary tract, including the ureters, bladder, kidneys, or urethra. Bladder infections and urethra infections are most common.

    There are two categories of urinary tract infections: simple and complicated.

    • Simple UTIs occur in healthy people with normal urinary tracts. This type of UTI occurs most frequently in women. Cystitis is another name for a urinary tract infection.
    • Complicated UTIs occur in individuals with abnormal urinary tracts or when underlying medical conditions make treatment failure more likely. Men and children are more likely to have this type of UTI.

    Some individuals have bacteria in their urine without signs and symptoms . These patients may not need antibiotic treatment and should discuss treatment options with their doctor.

    Ease The Burn With Baking Soda

    How can women protect themselves from urinary tract infections?
    • Add 1 teaspoon of baking soda to a glass of water.
    • Stir the soda until it dissolves completely.
    • Drink the entire solution, preferably on an empty stomach.

    When the burning sensation while peeing gets too much to bear, drink some baking soda. The burning sensation may be because of the high acidity of your urine. Baking soda is alkaline, so it will lessen the acidity of your urine or neutralize it.13 But dont go overboard with it. Stick to 1 glass a day and dont drink it for more than a week.

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    A Note About Cranberry Juice And Utis

    Cranberry juice or cranberry extract in supplemental form has long been used as a home remedy for UTIs.

    The thought is that the proanthocyanidins in cranberries may help prevent bladder infections by keeping the bacteria from clinging to the bladder wall, says Sonya Angelone, MS, RDN, a nutrition consultant based in San Francisco, and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

    Yet theres scientific controversy over how effective cranberry juice is at preventing UTIs due to conflicting conclusions in studies on the topic, according to an article published in May 2016 in Advances in Nutrition. Some studies have found it might work, while others have found no effect.

    Bottom line, there is some evidence it may help, and it doesnt hurt to try it, says Angelone. Just be sure to chose unsweetened cranberry juice . Mix this with sparkling water or plain yogurt, she recommends.

    Another low-calorie option choose a cranberry pill that contains d-mannose, she says.

    When To Visit A Doctor For Uti

    You should call your doctor if you have frequent urination, an intense urge to urinate or discomfort during the urination or other symptoms of the urinary tract infection.

    You should seek medical attention if you have symptoms of the kidney like nausea, vomiting, and pain in the lower back. If you are pregnant then you should call your doctor immediately.

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    The Best Natural Remedies For A Uti

    The best natural remedy for a UTI is, first and foremost, prevention. As I mentioned earlier, practicing good sex hygiene is essential, and so is wiping from the front to back when using the restroom. Anything you can do to help prevent the spread of bacteria from the anus to the urethra is key.

    However, another thing to focus on is keeping your immune system strong at all times.

    Here are some of the ways to support your immune system and specifically fight off bladder infections that you can try before resorting to antibiotics or if you’ve tried medications and they didn’t work.

    New Research On Developing Whole

    Pin on 5 Home Remedies For UTIs

    Texas: The researchers at the University of Texas are studying the use of whole-cell vaccines to tackle urinarytractinfection or UTI as it is a serious issue of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This study has been published in the American Chemical Society’s ‘ACS Nano Journal’.

    The Free Press Journal

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    How To Cure A Urinary Tract Infection Naturally 8 Tips

    Have you experienced the uncomfortable feeling when you sit on the toilet but cannot pee? However, when you try to get a little out, you may have a burning sensation. It means that you are suffering from a urinary tract infection. The possible reason may be that bacteria block the urethra which carries the urine when you pee. There are a lot of reasons causing a urinary tract infection. It may be because you hold the urine whenever you want to go to bathroom. And the women who do not pee after having sex will have the higher risk of developing a urinary tract infection. You may feel miserable. When the symptoms get worse and do not disappear, it is important for you to see the doctor. If a urinary tract infection begins to attack you, available solutions and home remedies on how to cure a urinary tract infection naturally at home will help you ease the pain and make things flow smoothly.

    What Are Home Remedies For Urinary Tract Infections

    An individual should always have a urinary tract infection diagnosed and treated by a health care professional, but there are some home remedies to try that may ease symptoms and help prevent future UTIs.

    • Drink plenty of water. Medical professionals recommend that you drink 6 to 8 glasses of water per day.
    • Reduce or eliminate processed foods, fruit juices, alcohol, and sugar.
    • Use a heating pad.
    • Take non-antibiotic supplements such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, and zinc to help boost the immune system. Talk to a doctor to determine the right dose.

    Cranberry juice, cranberry products, and other herbal remedies containing cranberry are widely touted as helping prevent bladder infections , however, the current evidence does not fully support this.

    Probiotics such as lactobacillus and acidophilus may help to protect against infections in the urinary tract, however, more studies are needed to definitively determine their efficacy.

    Drinking a mixture of 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar plus 3 tablespoons of water is also touted as a natural remedy to cure a urinary tract infection. Some believe that the acidity of the vinegar will create a more acidic urine, which will help slow or stop the growth of bacteria. However, more acidic urine may cause a burning sensation when you urinate. Talk to your health care provider before trying this or any other home remedy to treat a UTI.

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