Urinary Tract Infection Treatment At Home

What Is A Cat Urinary Tract Infection

At Home Remedies for a UTI

A urinary tract infection can affect any part of the cats urinary system.

This can include the bladder, the urethra , or even the kidneys.

An important fact to know about cat UTIs is that its not always a bacterial infection. Your cat may have inflammation in their bladder without an infection which is called cat cystitis or sterile urinary tract inflammation.

Use Essential Oils With Caution

Oregano essential oil is well known for its strong antibacterial properties. Studies have shown that oregano oil can be very effective at killing E.coli, but it should be noted these studies are generally done in vitromeaning in a lab using scientific techniques, not performed in humans with infections. Lemongrass oil and clove oil may also be a home remedy for UTIs because of their antimicrobial properties, but both have been studied against harmful bacteria in similar experiments as Oregano oil.

Its important to take care before using essential oils as a treatment. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy advises against ingesting these oils. Instead, essential oils may be safely used topically with a carrier oil or inhaled from a diffuser.

Uti Causes And Symptoms

A UTI, or urinary tract infection, is caused by organisms that are too small to be seen without a microscope, including fungi, viruses and bacteria. Despite the bodys many natural defenses, certain bacteria have the ability to attach themselves to the lining of the urinary tract and inhabit the urethra, bladder and kidneys. The majority of UTI cases are caused by E. colibacterium that can live in the bowel and vaginal cavities, around the urethral opening, and in the urinary tract.

Other significant pathogens that can cause UTIs include Proteus mirabilis, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Klebsiella pneumonia. In diabetic patients, Klebsiella and group B streptococcus infections are more common. Pseudomonas infections are more common in chronically catheterized patients.

Urinary tract infections are extremely common, especially among sexually active women ages 18 to 24. Although a UTI isnt typically complicated or life-threatening, it does cause pain and suffering and negatively impacts ones quality of life.

Generally, symptoms of a UTI in adults may include:

pain when urinating
a burning sensation in the bladder or urethra when urinating
a strong, frequent urge to urinate, but only passing small amounts
muscle aches
urine that appears red or bright pink
strong-smelling urine

people with suppressed immune systems
people with diabetes

Precautions Regarding UTIs and Home Remedies for UTI

Final Thoughts on Home Remedies for UTI

Can You Get A Uti From Having Sex

Yes, you can get a UTI from having sex, especially if youre a woman.

During sexual intercourse, thrusting can introduce bacteria up the urethra and into the bladder, increasing the risk of a UTI, explains Dr. Lakeisha Richardson, MD, OB-GYN.

The reason that women are more prone to getting a UTI from sex is due to female anatomy. Women have a shorter urethra than men, which means its easier for bacteria to get into the bladder.

Also, the urethra is closer to the anus in women. This makes it easier for bacteria, like E. coli, to get into the urethra.

Its important to keep in mind that you can also get a UTI from oral sex, not just penetrative sex. With oral sex, bacteria can still get introduced into the urethra, which can lead to an infection.

Although anyone is susceptible to getting a UTI from having sex, Richardson says women with a history of recurrent UTIs or urinary abnormalities have an increased risk for these infections.

Although it might not be possible to come up with a completely foolproof plan to prevent a UTI, you can certainly take steps to reduce your risk for getting a UTI after sex.

Here are some tips:

Richardson also says women who have recurrent UTIs may benefit from taking a prescribed antibiotic after sex. This is typically one dose taken immediately after having sexual intercourse.

If youre prone to getting UTIs, you may want to talk with your doctor about an antibiotic prescription for this purpose.

nausea

drink plenty of water

Cut Bladder Irritants From Your Diet

When you have a UTI, caffeine, alcohol, spicy food, nicotine, carbonated drinks, and artificial sweeteners can irritate your bladder further, making it harder for your body to heal, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Focus on healthy foods, such as high-fiber carbohydrates , that are good for your digestive health, says Holly Lucille, ND, RN, a naturopathic doctor in private practice in West Hollywood, California, and the author of Creating and Maintaining Balance: A Womans Guide to Safe, Natural Hormone Health.

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The purpose of the Southern Cross Medical Library is to provide information of a general nature to help you better understand certain medical conditions. Always seek specific medical advice for treatment appropriate to you. This information is not intended to relate specifically to insurance or healthcare services provided by Southern Cross. For more articles go to the Medical Library index page.

What Is A Urinary Tract Infection

The urinary tract includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. A urinary tract infection, or UTI, is an infection occurring in any part of the urinary tract.

A UTI can happen in any part of the urinary tract, but bladder infection and urethral infection are the two most common types. The bacterial infection causes inflammation in those areas, leading to the classic symptoms of pain and irritation.

While anyone can get a UTI, theyre more common in females, occurring in 1 in 5 women at some point in their lifetimes. This is because the urethra in women is shorter and closer to the anus, which can harbor harmful bacteria.

In some cases, a urinary tract infection can spread to a persons kidneys, which can cause serious complications. It is important to seek medical care if you suspect you might have an infection in your urinary tract. Health care providers generally treat UTIs with antibiotics, but its also possible to treat a mild UTI at home and take measures to prevent them.

Recommended Reading: What Is Best Treatment For Urinary Tract Infection

Drink Lots Of Water To Flush The Bacteria

It might seem counterintuitive to drink more given the burning sensation when you urinate during a UTI, however, water helps to flush the harmful bacteria from your body.

Health experts recommend that women should drink at least 2.5 liters of water throughout the day. And this can be increased to 3 liters per day during a UTI infection.

In a 2018 study, for example, 140 women who were particularly susceptible to UTIs reported a decrease in the frequency of infections after increasing their daily water intake over 12 months.

A Note About Cranberry Juice And Utis

3 Simple Home Remedies To TREAT URINARY TRACT INFECTION (UTI) In Women

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.

Also Check: Rite Aid Azo Urinary Pain Relief

Cinnamom Verum J Presl : A Potent Botanical For Complicated Uti

Chronic recurrent UTI was resulted in patients with urinary catheters due to biofilm formation by MDR UPEC. Trans-cinnamaldehyde was reported to prevent UPEC biofilm formation both on plate culture and indwelling catheters. When trans-cinnamaldehyde was used in catheter lock solution, it inactivated UPEC biofilm formation on catheters. Since the test concentrations had no cytotoxic effects on human bladder epithelial cells, it can be used as a surface coating for catheters or in catheter lock solution to prevent UTI . Trans-cinnamaldehyde significantly reduced uroepithelial cell attachment and invasion by UPEC by inhibiting the expression of major genes associated with its attachment and invasion to host tissue . These findings support the use of cinnamon as a natural remedy for UTI.

Habits That Put You At Risk Of Urinary Tract Infections

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.

SNS | New Delhi | January 3, 2022 1:10 pm

UTI- infection

Having a urinary tract infection, or UTI is not just uncomfortable but also painful. It is often referred to in the Philippines in local lingo as balisawsaw. What starts as a seemingly simple bacterial infection could lead to life-threatening conditions, such as septic shock.

Most of the UTIs affect the lower urinary tract or the bladder and are called acute uncomplicated cystitis. If you are frequently urinating or if you are experiencing pain or dysuria, you may have acute uncomplicated cystitis UTI.

Although acute uncomplicated cystitis may not be thought of as a serious condition, the quality of life of those who have this is often significantly affected. The person will experience at the most six days of discomfort.

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 develops urinary tract infections. Each year, 8 million to 10 million visits to doctors are for urinary tract infections.

Seven Habits That Cause UTI

1. SITTING FOR LONG PERIODS

2. EXCESSIVE MUNCHING ON SWEETS

7. PREGNANCY

Vitamin C Intake For Uti

Vitamin C is very helpful in fighting UTI in such a way that it increases the acidity of the urine and thus kills the bacteria that is cause for UTI .One of the study of 2007 shows that pregnant women that had 100 mg of vitamin C per day were not having UTIs than those who had not consumed that much vitamin C as control group .Because vitamin in their bodies cut off the risk of UTI and even if they had , its just in little amount of infection and inflammation.So vitamin C intake for UTI helpful in decreasing the frequency of UTI and also its symptoms.Red peppers, Oranges, lemons , grapefruit and kiwi fruit ate the most vitamin C enriched fruits .You can choose fruits of vegetables for c vitamin intake or you can take supplements.

Check Your Vitamin C Intake

Due to its acidity, vitamin C helps to kill harmful bacteria.

In 2007, a study was conducted to determine the effects of taking 100 mg of vitamin C daily to reduce the occurrence of UTIs in pregnant women. Results showed more than a 50% reduction in infections compared to the control group who did not take vitamin C.

For women, the recommended intake of vitamin C is 100 mg daily. This can be taken in supplement form, or by increasing foods that are rich in vitamin C. For example, citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, as well as red peppers and kiwis provide the recommended daily amount of vitamin C in one serving.

When Should People Seek Medical Care For A Uti

Any adult or child who develops any of the symptoms of a urinary tract infection needs to be evaluated by a medical professional, preferably within 24 hours. Most medical offices can test urine for infection by using a quick urine “dipstick” test.

Someone who has symptoms of a lower urinary tract infection should call a health care professional for an appointment, preferably on the same day that symptoms are recognized.
Someone who has symptoms of an upper urinary tract infection involving the kidneys should call a health care professional immediately. Depending on the situation, he or she will recommend either a visit to the office or a hospital emergency department.

If someone has symptoms of a lower urinary tract infection and any of the following applies, he or she may be at risk for complications of the urinary tract infection.

Vomiting and inability to keep down clear fluids or medication
Not better after taking antibiotics for two days
Pregnant
Having diabetes or another disease that affects the immune system
Taking medication that suppresses the immune system such as cancer chemotherapy

Infants, children, and elderly people with any of the signs and symptoms of UTI should see their health care professional as soon as possible or go to an emergency department for evaluation.

The usual treatment for both simple and complicated urinary tract infections is antibiotics. The type of antibiotic and duration of treatment depends on the circumstances.

What Causes A Urinary Tract Infection

The most common causes of UTI infections are E. colibacterial strains that usually inhabit the colon. However, many other bacteria can occasionally cause an infection. In addition, yeasts and some parasites may cause UTIs. In the U.S., most infections are due to Gram-negative bacteria with E. coli causing the majority of infections.

What Is Interstitial Cystitis

Unlike acute cystitis, interstitial cystitis is inflammation of the bladder that has no infectious cause.

Symptoms are the same as a kidney infection with the manifestation of pain or pressure that may increase as the bladder fills. The urge to urinate is then more frequent but does not relieve pain or pressure.

These symptoms may be intermittent or become constant.

The exact cause of this condition is unknown but certain factors seem to encourage it such as:

feces that appear to spread toxic substances that irritate the kidneys
an autoimmune reaction
infection
an allergy

Although interstitial cystitis has the same symptoms as UTI, it does not respond to antibiotic treatment.

To treat interstitial cystitis it is recommended to:

change your diet by cutting out sour fruits, spicy dishes and limiting coffee

start therapy to strengthen the pelvic muscles

Home Remedies For A Cat Uti

How to treat UTI?/Home remedies for urinary tract infections…

Once you have diagnosed your cat to have a UTI, the next course of action is to find a remedy. UTI in cats are pretty common and can cause a lot of discomfort and distress to your furry friend. If left untreated, the UTI can lead to blockage of the urethra which can be fatal. Luckily there are home remedies to help in the treatment of a UTI in cats.

Recommended Reading: What Are The Different Types Of Urinary Incontinence

Do I Really Have To See A Doctor For A Uti

It may seem unnecessary to see a doctor for such a common illness. Why not just let it go and treat it on your own? Dr. Elizabeth Rice, a licensed naturopathic doctor and primary care physician at Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, has tips for natural treatments, but says you always have to be careful. A partially treated or mistreated UTI can quickly become a serious condition known as pyelonephritis , so care must always be taken when treating UTIs naturally.

If youre just starting to feel or see potential UTI symptoms, you can try a few natural remedies to try to flush out the bacteria and reduce inflammation before the infection really takes hold, Rice says. Increase your intake of fluids to help flush the bladder. But if the symptoms persist more than a day, or get worse, you have to go to the doctor.

Going to the doctor may be a bit annoying, but a UTI that morphs into a kidney infection is way worse than an afternoon in the waiting room. Kidney infections can lead to potentially life-threatening sepsis or permanent kidney damage. Seeing a doctor to prescribe antibiotics may ultimately help you avoid a lifetime of medical complications.

You know your body best, so listen to it. You may not run to the doctor after one weird-feeling pee. If you start to have mild symptoms, here are a few natural choices that may help you out.

Diagnosis Of A Urinary Tract Infection

To diagnose a UTI, health care providers ask questions about whats going on, do an exam, and take a sample of pee for testing.

How a sample is taken depends on a childs age. Older kids might simply need to pee into a sterile cup. For younger children in diapers, a catheter is usually preferred. This is when a thin tube is inserted into the urethra up to the bladder to get a clean urine sample.

The sample may be used for a urinalysis or a urine culture . Knowing what bacteria are causing the infection can help your doctor choose the best treatment.

Can A Urinary Tract Infection Be Prevented

Many methods have been suggested to reduce or prevent UTIs. The single most important prevention measure is increased fluid intake. Many people develop UTIs simply because they do not drink enough fluids. Some of these are considered home remedies and have been discussed . There are other suggestions that may help prevent UTIs. Good hygiene for males and females is useful. For females, wiping from front to back helps keep pathogens that may reside or pass through the anal opening away from the urethra. For males, retracting the foreskin before urinating reduces the chance of urine lingering at the urethral opening and acting as a culture media for pathogens. Incomplete bladder emptying and resisting the normal urge to urinate can allow pathogens to survive and replicate easier in a non-flowing system. Some clinicians recommend washing before and urinating soon after sex to reduce the chance of urethritis and cystitis. Many clinicians suggest that anything that causes a person irritation in the genital area may encourage UTI development. Wearing underwear that is somewhat adsorptive may help wick away urine drops that otherwise may be areas for pathogen growth.