How can you alleviate UTI pain at home. What are the most effective natural remedies for urinary tract infections. Which over-the-counter medications provide quick relief from UTI symptoms. When should you seek medical attention for a urinary tract infection.

Understanding Urinary Tract Infections: Causes and Symptoms

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common bacterial infections that can affect any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. These infections often cause discomfort and can interfere with daily activities. Common symptoms of UTIs include a frequent urge to urinate, burning sensation during urination, lower abdominal pain, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine.

What causes UTIs? The most common culprit is the bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli), which normally resides in the intestinal tract. When these bacteria enter the urinary system, they can multiply and cause an infection. Women are more prone to UTIs due to their shorter urethra, which allows bacteria to reach the bladder more easily.

Hydration: The Foundation of UTI Relief

One of the most crucial steps in managing a UTI is increasing your fluid intake. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out bacteria from your urinary system, potentially speeding up the healing process. But how much water should you drink?

Aim for six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily. This increased fluid intake supports urine production, which in turn helps eliminate bacteria from your urinary tract. While water is the best choice, other hydrating fluids can also be beneficial. However, it’s important to avoid beverages that may irritate your bladder, such as those containing caffeine or alcohol.

The Role of Cranberry Juice in UTI Treatment

Cranberry juice has long been touted as a natural remedy for UTIs. While scientific studies have produced mixed results, some research and anecdotal evidence suggest that cranberry juice may help prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract lining. If you choose to try this remedy, opt for pure cranberry juice without added sugars or artificial sweeteners.

Do all cranberry products work equally well for UTIs? Not necessarily. Look for juices that list cranberries as the first ingredient to ensure you’re getting a high concentration of the beneficial compounds. Some studies suggest that cranberry supplements in tablet or capsule form may be more effective due to their concentrated nature.

Heat Therapy: Soothing UTI Discomfort

Applying heat to your lower abdomen can provide significant relief from UTI-related pain and discomfort. Heat therapy works by increasing blood flow to the affected area, which can help reduce cramping and pressure. How can you effectively use heat for UTI relief?

• Use a warm compress or heating pad on your lower abdomen
• Take a warm bath to soothe the entire pelvic area
• Use a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel for targeted relief

Apply heat for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day as needed. Be careful not to use excessive heat, as this could cause skin irritation or burns. Always place a thin towel between your skin and the heat source for protection.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relief Options

While antibiotics are necessary to treat the underlying infection, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can help manage UTI symptoms. Phenazopyridine hydrochloride, available under brand names like AZO or in generic form, is specifically designed to relieve urinary pain and discomfort.

How does phenazopyridine work? This medication acts as a local anesthetic in the urinary tract, temporarily numbing the area to reduce pain, burning, and urgency. It’s important to note that while it provides symptom relief, it does not treat the infection itself.

Other OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also help reduce pain and inflammation associated with UTIs. Always follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns or pre-existing medical conditions.

Dietary Considerations: Foods to Avoid During a UTI

Certain foods and beverages can irritate your bladder and exacerbate UTI symptoms. To promote healing and minimize discomfort, it’s advisable to avoid or limit the following:

1. Caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks)
2. Alcohol
3. Spicy foods
4. Acidic fruits and juices (citrus, tomatoes)
5. Artificial sweeteners
6. Carbonated beverages

What should you eat instead? Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Some foods that may be beneficial during a UTI include:

• Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kefir
• Vitamin C-rich foods to boost immune function
• Garlic, which has natural antibacterial properties
• Berries, which are high in antioxidants

Clothing Choices: Comfort is Key

The clothes you wear can impact your comfort level during a UTI. Tight, restrictive clothing may irritate your urethra and worsen UTI symptoms. What type of clothing should you opt for?

Choose loose-fitting, breathable clothes to minimize irritation. Cotton underwear is particularly beneficial as it allows for better air circulation, reducing moisture that can promote bacterial growth. Avoid synthetic materials that may trap heat and moisture, potentially exacerbating your symptoms.

Natural Supplements and Herbal Remedies

Several natural supplements and herbal remedies have been traditionally used to support urinary tract health and alleviate UTI symptoms. While scientific evidence varies, some people find relief with the following:

• D-mannose: A type of sugar that may help prevent bacteria from adhering to urinary tract walls
• Uva ursi: An herb with potential antimicrobial properties
• Garlic extract: Contains allicin, which has antibacterial effects
• Probiotics: May help restore beneficial bacteria in the urinary tract

Are these natural remedies safe for everyone? While generally considered safe, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While home remedies can provide relief, it’s important to recognize when professional medical care is necessary. UTIs can sometimes lead to more serious complications if left untreated. When should you consult a doctor?

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
• Severe back or side pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blood in your urine
• Symptoms that persist for more than 3 days

Additionally, certain groups should always consult a healthcare provider at the first sign of a UTI, including pregnant women, individuals with diabetes, and those with compromised immune systems.

The Importance of Completing Antibiotic Treatment

If your doctor prescribes antibiotics, it’s crucial to complete the entire course, even if your symptoms improve before you finish the medication. Why is this so important? Stopping antibiotics early can lead to antibiotic resistance and recurrent infections. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding medication use.

Preventing Future UTIs: Proactive Measures

While treating current UTIs is important, taking steps to prevent future infections can significantly improve your quality of life. How can you reduce your risk of recurring UTIs?

1. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
2. Urinate frequently and always empty your bladder completely
3. Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom
4. Urinate before and after sexual activity
5. Avoid using douches or irritating feminine hygiene products
6. Consider taking cranberry supplements or drinking unsweetened cranberry juice regularly

For women who experience recurrent UTIs, additional preventive measures may be recommended by a healthcare provider, such as low-dose prophylactic antibiotics or vaginal estrogen therapy for postmenopausal women.

The Role of Probiotics in UTI Prevention and Treatment

Probiotics, beneficial bacteria that support gut and urinary tract health, may play a role in preventing and managing UTIs. How do probiotics help? They work by promoting the growth of good bacteria in the urinary tract, which can help prevent harmful bacteria from colonizing and causing infections.

While more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of probiotics for UTIs, some studies suggest that certain strains, particularly Lactobacillus, may be beneficial. Probiotic supplements are available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and fermented foods like yogurt and kefir.

Is it safe to take probiotics during a UTI? Generally, probiotics are considered safe for most people. However, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you’re currently taking antibiotics for a UTI.

Stress Management and UTI Recovery

Stress can have a significant impact on your overall health, including your susceptibility to infections like UTIs. High stress levels can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections. How can you manage stress to support UTI recovery and prevention?

• Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation
• Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking or yoga
• Ensure you’re getting adequate sleep each night
• Consider talking to a therapist or counselor if stress is overwhelming

By incorporating stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine, you may not only improve your overall well-being but also potentially reduce your risk of recurring UTIs.

The Connection Between Sleep and UTI Recovery

Adequate sleep is crucial for a healthy immune system, which plays a vital role in fighting off infections like UTIs. How can you improve your sleep quality during a UTI?

• Establish a consistent sleep schedule
• Create a comfortable sleeping environment
• Avoid caffeine and electronic devices before bedtime
• Use a heating pad or warm compress to alleviate discomfort

By prioritizing sleep, you’re giving your body the best chance to heal and recover from the infection.

The Future of UTI Treatment: Emerging Research and Technologies

As medical science advances, new approaches to UTI treatment and prevention are being explored. What are some promising areas of research?

• Vaccines targeting common UTI-causing bacteria
• Novel antimicrobial compounds derived from natural sources
• Advanced diagnostic tools for faster, more accurate UTI detection
• Personalized treatment approaches based on individual microbiome profiles

While these developments are exciting, it’s important to remember that they are still in various stages of research and development. Current best practices, including proper hygiene, hydration, and seeking timely medical care, remain crucial for managing and preventing UTIs.

As we continue to learn more about urinary tract infections and develop new treatment strategies, the combination of traditional remedies, modern medicine, and preventive measures offers the best approach to managing and preventing these common yet troublesome infections. By staying informed and working closely with healthcare providers, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain urinary tract health and quickly address UTIs when they occur.

Home Remedies for Fast UTI Relief

Table of Contents

• Ways to relieve UTI discomfort at home
  • Try heat
  • Boost your water intake
  • Take an OTC medication
  • Put on your comfy clothes
  • Sip some cranberry juice
  • Steer clear of bladder irritants
• Combine home remedies with medical care
• Forward improves UTI treatment

The urge to go to the bathroom, pain during urination, and lower abdominal pressure and pain associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs) can make it difficult to concentrate at work or school, enjoy favorite activities and rest comfortably at night. Fortunately, there are ways that you can get UTI relief through home remedies while your body fights the infection.

Ways to relieve UTI discomfort at home

To ease symptoms of UTI and promote healing:

Try heat

Apply warm compresses, a hot water bottle or heating pad to your pelvis. Heat increases blood flow to reduce cramping and pressure.

Boost your water intake

Drinking six to eight, 8-oz. glasses of water every day supports urine production. Each time you urinate, your body flushes bacteria out of your urinary tract to help clear up an infection.

Take an OTC medication

Phenazopyridine hydrochloride is a pain reliever for the urinary tract and can be purchased over the counter in generic form or as the brand name drug AZO. This medication temporarily relieves urinary urgency, pain, and pressure associated with UTIs. However, it doesn’t treat the underlying infection.

Put on your comfy clothes

Tight, restrictive clothing may rub against your urethra and worsen the irritation that occurs during a UTI. Opt for loose-fitting clothes and breathable cotton underwear until your symptoms resolve.

Sip some cranberry juice

Studies into the effectiveness of cranberry juice for UTI treatment have produced mixed results. However, anecdotal evidence and some small studies indicate that cranberry juice may aid in healing by making it difficult for bacteria to stick to the lining of the urinary tract. If you wish to try this traditional folk remedy, choose a juice that lists cranberries as its first ingredient and is free of artificial sweeteners and added sugar.

Steer clear of bladder irritants

Some foods and drinks can trigger bladder inflammation and intensify urinary tract infections. While your body heals, cut down on or avoid:

• Caffeine, including coffee, tea and chocolate
• Carbonated beverages
• Alcohol
• Spicy foods
• Acidic foods like fruits and vinegar
• Refined sugar

Combine home remedies with medical care

All of the above home remedies may ease symptoms of a UTI. However, none of them are likely to cure a urinary tract infection. While it is not possible for the immune system to fight off the bacteria that causes UTIs on its own, antibiotics are usually necessary to aid in the process. You can combine home remedies for UTI relief with the medication your primary care provider prescribes to both treat the infection and minimize your discomfort.

If you decide to let your immune system fight the infection on its own, keep close tabs on your condition. Specifically, see your doctor if you experience any of the following:

• High fever
• Pain in your side
• Pain in your lower back
• Nausea
• Vomiting

The above symptoms could indicate that the infection has spread to the kidneys. A kidney infection requires prompt medical care, since it can permanently damage the organs or move into the bloodstream and cause a potentially fatal infection.

Even without kidney infection symptoms, you should see your doctor if:

• Your symptoms don’t improve after two or three days
• You have had three or more UTIs in the last 12 months
• You’re pregnant
• You’re diabetic
• You have a medical condition or take a medication that suppresses your immune system

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. 

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How to Relieve UTI Pain at Night: Medical and Home Remedies

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You may be able to relieve UTI pain by taking prescribed medications and using home remedies, including a heating pad.

A UTI is a urinary tract infection. It can be an infection in any part of your urinary system, including your bladder, kidneys, urethra, and ureters.

Some of the common symptoms that can make it difficult to sleep at night include:

• pelvic discomfort
• persistent urge to urinate
• burning sensation when urinating
• frequent urination of small amounts

Keep reading to learn about medical treatments and home remedies you can use to relieve nighttime UTI symptoms.

A UTI is an infection of any location along the urinary tract, but when most people say UTI, they’re usually referring to a bladder infection. UTIs are more common in folks assigned female at birth, because of the setup of anatomy.

S. Adam Ramin, MD, urologist and medical director of Urology Cancer Specialists in Los Angeles, explained that the “bladder and its tubing, the urethra, sit directly along the length of the vagina. Urine exits the body through this very short tube, and the opening of the urethra is a tiny hole right above the entrance into the vagina.”

This positioning makes it super easy for bacteria to travel along the urinary tract.

During vaginal intercourse, bacteria from the vagina and rectum can easily move into the urethra and the bladder, causing a urinary tract infection, Ramin added.

Hormonal change is another cause of UTIs, though it’s less common. Karyn Eilber, MD, a board certified urologist and an associate professor of urology & OB-GYN at Cedars-Sinai Hospital, said some people experience UTIs at certain times of the month.

“Cyclical hormone changes related to the menstrual cycle can influence the vaginal pH. The vaginal pH is acidic which is conducive to the ‘good’ bacteria,” Eilber said. “At certain times of the month (or because of perimenopause or menopause), the pH can become less acidic so that there is an imbalance in a woman’s microbiome and she can be more prone to UTIs. ”

For most healthy, hydrated people, peeing should be pain-free and urine output should be nearly odorless, or in some cases should only have a slight scent of ammonia to it. If that’s not the case, an infection might be present. Here are a few common signs of a UTI to look out for:

Urgent and frequent urination

A UTI can cause inflammation and irritation of the bladder lining, making it more sensitive. This results in more urinary urgency and frequency of urination. You might also notice that despite having an urgent need to pee, the output is minimal or nonexistent.

Burning or pain while peeing

Dysuria, or burning with urination, is also a common symptom. Pain due to a UTI usually occurs with urination, but pain or burning not related to urination may be indicative of a vaginal infection or something else, Eilber said.

Smelly or cloudy urine

Ramin said that sometimes, one of the early signs of an impending UTI is a distinctly unusual smell or cloudy appearance of your urine. If you suddenly notice a foul or otherwise unusual smell to it, this may indicate a urinary tract infection or urinary stones, especially if the smell is also accompanied by a cloudy appearance.

Loss of control

You may also find you have less control over your bladder during a UTI episode. UTIs that have reached the kidneys can include the symptoms mentioned above and are frequently accompanied by back pain and fever.

To help your recovery, you need to rest. But it can be difficult to sleep with some of the uncomfortable symptoms that may accompany a UTI.

Here are some things you can do at home to help you sleep comfortably:

• Drink plenty of water during the day to help flush out bacteria.
• Avoid alcohol, coffee, and soft drinks that contain caffeine or citrus juice. These tend to irritate your bladder and aggravate the urgency and frequency of your need to urinate.
• Avoid drinking a lot of fluids before bed.
• Use an incontinence pad or wear incontinence pants. These can lessen the concern of urinating in your sleep or give you the option of not getting out of bed to urinate.
• Use a hot water bottle or heating pad to warm your abdomen to minimize bladder discomfort or pressure.
• Completely empty your bladder before bed.
• Take your antibiotics as instructed by your doctor.

If your doctor hasn’t prescribed pain medication and you feel it would help you sleep, ask them for a recommendation for either OTC or prescription pain medications.

The first step to relieving UTI discomfort at night is to see your doctor about knocking out the infection.

Stopping the infection

Based on your current health and the type of bacteria in your urine, your doctor might recommend antibiotic medication for a simple UTI, such as:

• ceftriaxone (Rocephin)
• cephalexin (Keflex)
• fosfomycin (Monurol)
• nitrofurantoin (Macrodantin)
• trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra)

If you have a complicated UTI or kidney infection, your doctor may prescribe a type of antibiotic called fluoroquinolones, such as levofloxacin (Levaquin) or ciprofloxacin (Cipro).

To reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance, you should receive the shortest treatment course possible. Effective treatment typically takes no more than 7 days.

There are also other medications available for treatment that are not antibiotic-based.

Relieving the pain

Within a few days of starting the antibiotic, you should notice a relief in discomfort, but your doctor may also suggest an analgesic (pain medication).

Antibiotics aren’t the only option and there are other prescription medications available to treat UTIs.

Many UTI analgesics include phenazopyridine for relief from the pain, itching, burning, and urinary urgency. It’s available in both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) forms.

Over-the-counter UTI medication

When it comes to treating UTIs with OTC options, you may want to skip it. Bladder infections are usually easy to treat with a course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor and plenty of fluids. But if you’re looking for pain relief, Ramin recommends AZO.

“AZO is an effective OTC and one of the best over-the-counter bladder analgesics we have available to ease urinary pain. If taken in small doses, this is safe. Overdosing on AZO should always be avoided,” he said. “You can use AZO with or without antibiotics, but typically I recommend using it for 3 days.”

Experts also recommend drinking plenty of fluids, unsweetened cranberry juice, and taking probiotics. Just because there are OTC options to relieve UTI discomfort, you shouldn’t overlook the actual infection. In fact, Kecia Gaither, MD, MPH, FACOG, double board certified in OB-GYN and Maternal Fetal Medicine, doesn’t recommend taking the OTC route at all.

“I don’t recommend over-the-counter medications for urinary tract infections,” she said. “Untreated [or not properly treated], a common bladder infection can spread to the kidneys and potentially the entire body, resulting in pyelonephritis and urosepsis.”

Those who are pregnant are particularly susceptible to this, as bladder infections can be further progressive in nature.

According to Eilber, UTI pain and other symptoms aren’t worse at night. They are just more bothersome because people aren’t as distracted by their daily activities and the symptoms of frequency and urgency are forcing you to get out of bed.

UTI discomfort may also seem worse because you’re not emptying your bladder as much as you would during the day. The pressure from collecting urine then creates discomfort against the inflamed walls of your infected bladder.

To reduce your risk of getting a UTI, there are specific lifestyle steps you can take, including:

• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
• Drink cranberry juice.
• Wipe from front to back after urinating and bowel movements.
• Empty your bladder before and after sexual activity.
• Take showers instead of baths.
• Avoid potentially irritating products, such as deodorant sprays, douches, and powders, in the genital area.
• Change tampons regularly.
• Switch your birth control method. Condoms and diaphragms can contribute to bacterial growth.
• Wear loose-fitting cotton underwear and clothing.

If you are experiencing symptoms of a UTI, it’s best to see your doctor as soon as possible. For those who are pregnant, a UTI can be dangerous for both mother and child.

Your doctor will perform the necessary tests, like a urine culture, to figure out the primary bacteria responsible for your infection. They’ll then prescribe medication that is targeted for your specific needs.

Again, this isn’t something you want to ignore for too long because your UTI could get a lot worse. Ramin said, in rare cases, the bacteria could make its way to your kidneys, which makes the UTI more difficult to treat.

“In more serious cases of urinary tract infection, antibiotics may need to be administered intravenously and then followed by a course of oral antibiotics for several days to weeks,” he said.

UTI supplement options

Read our full review of Uqora, a company that focuses on developing natural supplements for UTI prevention.

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How do you get rid of a UTI?

While it’s possible for some UTIs to clear up on their own, the best way to get rid of a UTI is by seeing your doctor.

How long do UTIs last?

According to Jordan Gitlin, MD, chief of pediatric urology at NYU Langone Hospital, a very minor infection will need treatment for about 5 to 7 days. For a more severe infection that goes up to the kidney or requires hospitalization, treatment lasts 10 to 14 days.

Why is UTI pain worse at night?

The pain and discomfort associated with UTIs aren’t worse at night, you’re just more aware of them. This is because you’re not distracted by your daily tasks and because you’re not emptying your bladder as much as you would during the day.

How should I sleep with UTI pain at night?

Here are some things you can do to help you sleep more comfortably at night, if you have UTI pain:

• Make sure you empty your bladder completely before going to bed.
• You may consider setting alarms during the night so you wake up and use the bathroom.
• Use an incontinence pad or wear incontinence pants. These can lessen the concern of urinating in your sleep or give you the option of not getting out of bed to urinate.
• Use a hot water bottle or heating pad to warm your abdomen to minimize bladder discomfort or pressure.

Some of the uncomfortable symptoms of a UTI can interfere with sleep.

Once your doctor has diagnosed and recommended treatment for your UTI, talk with them about steps you can take to make sleeping easier. They can recommend prescription or OTC pain medications. You can also try heating pads and hot water bottles.

Once you’ve recovered from your UTI, some ways you can avoid another one are to stay hydrated, take showers instead of baths, and wear cotton underwear.

symptoms, treatment, prevention discussed with an obstetrician-gynecologist

The weekend was great. You went camping with headscarves, or went to the beach, where you swam a lot, and then sat in a cold wet swimsuit, or went to a picnic, where everything was fine, except that on cool evenings you sat on the cold ground for too long

The weekend went great. You went camping with headscarves, or went to the beach, where you swam a lot, and then sat in a cold wet swimsuit, or went to a picnic, where everything was fine, except that on cool evenings you sat on the cold ground for too long … And now as a result, do you feel a sharp pain when urinating, a feeling of impossibility to go to the toilet, do you have to squeeze out the liquid literally drop by drop? As sad as it is, most likely you have cystitis.

Our consultant: obstetrician-gynecologist EUROMED Clinics Alina Vladimirovna CHAPLOUTSKAYA.

Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder. This term is often used to refer to a urinary infection associated with inflammation of the bladder mucosa and impaired function.

The appearance of cystitis can be provoked by trauma to the mucous membrane of the bladder, problems with urination, diseases of the bladder and nearby organs (prostate, urethra, genital organs), intestinal bacteria, blood stasis in the veins of the pelvis, hormonal disorders, beriberi, hypothermia, etc.

Women are more likely to suffer from cystitis than men – approximately 20 to 40% of the female population has experienced this disease.

Cystitis is primary and secondary, acute and chronic, infectious and non-infectious. Symptoms of cystitis depend on its type.

Symptoms

Acute cystitis is characterized by frequent urination , accompanied by “cutting” pain, hematuria (blood in the urine), discomfort in the lower abdomen, aggravated by urination, cloudy urine, fever, general malaise.

Chronic cystitis may have little or no symptoms. The only thing to notice is the increased urge to urinate.

Acute cystitis is diagnosed according to the clinical picture – pronounced symptoms make it easy to identify this disease. Chronic cystitis is determined by characteristic symptoms, urinalysis results, bacteriological studies, cystoscopy, functional studies of the lower urinary tract.

Treatment

Do not delay in contacting a doctor! Only a doctor will be able to assess your condition and prescribe an effective treatment, thanks to which you will forget about discomfort very quickly. With cystitis, antibiotics are usually prescribed, as well as drugs that relieve spasm of the muscles of the bladder, which reduces pain.

In acute cystitis, patients are recommended a special diet with a low calcium content and plenty of fluids, including herbal infusions that have a diuretic effect. But it is better to refuse tea, coffee and alcohol for the period of treatment. To reduce pain, you can use heating pads, take warm baths.

Prevention of cystitis

• Drink at least 8 glasses of fluid per day.
• Do not hold back urination, empty your bladder regularly. Stagnant urine is a great breeding ground for bacteria.
• Hygiene is important – wash at least once a day, while the direction of movement of the sponge should be from front to back – to avoid bacteria from entering the anus into the vagina. Toilet paper should be used in the same way.
• Choose safe sex.
• Urinate after intercourse. So you wash away the bacteria that got into the urethra during the act.
• Underwear should be made of natural fabrics, you should not wear synthetic panties on a regular basis, and especially thongs, no matter how beautiful they may be.
• Avoid hypothermia: do not sit on cold surfaces, immediately take off your wet swimsuit and put on dry underwear, etc.

Services

Nephrologist’s consultation

Urologist’s consultation

Therapist’s consultation

Pediatric urologist

Treatment of cystitis

Author of the article

Chaploutskaya Alina Vladimirovna
Head of outpatient gynecology and obstetrics service, obstetrician-gynecologist, specialist in aesthetic and reconstructive gynecology

How to relieve or relieve the pain of cystitis

The content of the article

1. What are the pains associated with cystitis
2. What to do with pain during cystitis
   1. 2. 1. Medicines
   2. 2.2. Folk remedies
   3. 2.3. When should you see a doctor?
   4. 2.4. What happens if cystitis is not treated0059

Pain in cystitis

Acute inflammatory processes in the bladder cannot go unnoticed. This is due to the structure and function of this organ. It is hollow, and it constantly accumulates urine saturated with active substances – urea, ammonia, creatinine. Normally, the epithelium of the bladder is protected from it by special mucus. But with inflammation, its secretion decreases. Urine begins to irritate and destroy epithelial cells. This is a painful process that is accompanied by swelling, spasm and the inability to go to the toilet normally [2].

Swelling of the base of the bladder also exacerbates discomfort. Urine cannot flow naturally, accumulates and presses on irritated and damaged areas. Usually a woman feels constant pain in the groin area, which increases during urination. Pain can also occur paroxysmal, cutting. If the treatment is carried out correctly, inflammatory processes can be quickly stopped in a few days. And unpleasant symptoms can be eliminated or reduced by taking painkillers and antispasmodics.

What to do with pain during cystitis

Pain in cystitis makes it difficult for women to work, study, and lead an active social life. If the disease has aggravated, it is better to postpone all matters for a few days and create the most comfortable conditions for the body to recover. Recommended bed or semi-bed rest, lack of stress and urgent matters. Visiting swimming pools, saunas, baths and gyms will also have to be delayed [3].

A warm heating pad on the groin area helps to relieve pain and relieve spasms in the bladder. It is able to remove or reduce pain in cystitis, but it can also provoke an increased growth of pathogenic microflora, so it should be used with caution.

Do not stay in a sitting or static position for a long time. Congestion in the pelvic organs can increase swelling and pain. For the same reason, a woman should temporarily stop wearing high-heeled shoes and should not lift weights [4]. After the relief of acute pain, walking at a slow pace is recommended to naturally stimulate the lymph and blood flow. At the time of treatment should refrain from sexual intercourse [4].

During an exacerbation of cystitis, it’s time to give up alcohol and smoking. Both that, and another negatively affects vessels, causing their spasm. This can increase pain and aggravate the course of the disease. When broken down, alcohol is converted into substances that further damage the epithelium of the bladder. Both smoking and alcohol reduce the natural immunity that the body needs to fight the pathogenic microflora that caused cystitis. In the acute period of the disease, a diet should be followed. Spicy, salty, canned food and marinades are excluded from the diet. They have an irritating effect on the mucous membrane and can aggravate pain in cystitis [5].

Drink plenty of warm liquids. It can be pure drinking water or a rosehip decoction rich in vitamin C, as well as cranberry and lingonberry fruit drinks containing powerful antibacterial components. It is better to refrain from strong tea and coffee until complete recovery [6].

Drugs

Most often, cystitis occurs due to the abnormal growth of one of the following types of bacteria: chlamydia, Escherichia coli, staphylococci, trichomonas, mycoplasmas. But inflammation of the bladder can also be caused by other pathogens – fungi, viruses [1]. Therefore, for high-quality treatment, it is important to establish a pathogenic agent. Reliably this information can be obtained from blood tests, urine and bacteriological culture. This is enough to prescribe adequate treatment. But to make it even more effective, it is better to immediately analyze the sensitivity of microflora to various groups of antibiotics.

In case of a severe pain symptom, doctors must prescribe antispasmodics and painkillers. Tablets are selected in such a way that they do not carry an additional irritating load on the bladder damaged by inflammation.

Phytotherapy is used as an important additional component [7]. Herbal medicines can have a complex effect on the bladder: relieve pain, relieve spasm, stimulate urine flow and reduce crystalline sedimentation.

For example, Phytolysin® Paste* can be used. The composition of the paste for the preparation of a suspension for oral Phytolysin® includes a condensed extract of a mixture of 9 types of plant materials, as well as 4 essential oils and other components. It can be used at the first symptoms of cystitis: it alleviates unpleasant symptoms in complex treatment.

Folk remedies

Infusions and decoctions are usually prepared from fresh, dried and crushed raw materials.

Decoctions are usually made from rhizomes, roots and bark and are an excellent complementary therapy [8]. Many “urological” herbs contain natural bactericidal components, diuretics, antispasmodics.

Herbs for the treatment of cystitis can be used individually or in combination. From medicinal plants can be used [9]:

• goldenrod, or core. It is used as an infusion for chronic diseases of the kidneys and urinary tract. Goldenrod has a diuretic and antiseptic effect;
• bearberry, or bear ears. Used in the form of decoctions. Bearberry helps to cleanse the bladder of bacteria, exhibits diuretic properties. Together with the decoction, they take an alkaline drink (mineral water), since bearberry works better in an alkaline environment;
• horsetail. Relieves inflammation, has a hemostatic and anti-inflammatory effect. Decoctions and infusions of horsetail contain silicon compounds, so it is believed that they have a vascular-strengthening and wound-healing effect;
• highlander bird, or knotweed. In folk medicine, it is used as a diuretic, hemostatic and astringent. It is believed to be able to relieve spasm of the urinary tract;
• garden parsley. It is believed that the herb is able to directly affect the renal tubules, thereby achieving a diuretic effect. Also exhibits antispasmodic properties;
• medicinal lovage. For therapeutic purposes, mainly the roots of the plant are used, which have a diuretic and antibacterial effect, relieve inflammation from the urinary tract;
• forest pine. Pine essential oil in folk medicine is loved for its pronounced bactericidal, anti-inflammatory and diuretic effect.

Decoctions and infusions should be prepared strictly according to the instructions, taken in the recommended dosages and only after agreement with the attending physician. It usually takes quite a long time until a noticeable effect is achieved from the treatment with herbal decoctions.

The treatment of cystitis can be supplemented with douching, sitz baths, but this must also be approved by a doctor. Sedentary baths can relieve pain, when the perineum is immersed in a basin of hot water or a decoction of medicinal herbs for 15-20 minutes. The perineum must be clean [5]. In chronic cystitis, it is important to carry out regular preventive procedures, physiotherapy, and follow a special diet [10].

When should I see a doctor?

Usually, cystitis begins acutely after a provoking event: hypothermia, stress, excessive exercise. The general condition is rarely disturbed, more often the disease begins with symptoms of urination disorders [5]:

• pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen;
• frequent, painful urination in small portions;
• urgent or false urges;
• burning and cutting during urination;
• turbidity, impurities in the urine, strong pungent odor;
• discharge of drops of blood at the end of urination;
• slight increase in body temperature.

With such symptoms, a woman should urgently contact a general practitioner or a general practitioner at a polyclinic at her place of residence. Diagnosis begins with a survey. In addition to complaints, it is necessary to inform the specialist about the circumstances of the onset of the disease (for example, provoking factors), about the order in which the symptoms appeared and changed, as well as about the presence of urination disorders during the last month before treatment. If this is not the first episode of cystitis, the doctor should be informed when the last exacerbation occurred, how it was treated and with what result [5].

What happens if cystitis is left untreated

Without treatment, the symptoms of cystitis may subside on their own, but the infection is not so easy to get rid of. From the bladder, pathogenic microbes can get up and cause pyelonephritis, an inflammation of the pyelocaliceal system of the kidneys. Pyelonephritis can develop just a few days after the onset of cystitis. This condition is called cystopyelonephritis and occurs in women. At the same time, signs of pyelonephritis “superimpose” on the symptoms of cystitis [4].

Bladder inflammation is most often superficial. However, cystitis can also occur in severe forms, which are fraught with the development of formidable complications. Severe forms of cystitis include [4]: ​​

• hemorrhagic;
• phlegmonous;
• gangrenous.

In the hemorrhagic form, blood circulation in the wall of the bladder is disturbed, the vessels dilate and become porous. With hemorrhagic cystitis, the mucous membrane bleeds, visible blood appears in the urine, bleeding may develop.

In the phlegmonous form, inflammation affects not only the mucosa, but also the underlying, deep layers of the organ wall. From the inflamed bladder, the infection can move on to the fiber surrounding the organ. A purulent process develops – paracystitis, which can develop into peritonitis, extensive inflammation in the abdominal cavity. This life-threatening condition needs urgent surgical debridement.

In the gangrenous form, the entire thickness of the bladder wall is affected. With the progression of the infectious process, a zone of tissue necrosis appears in the wall of the organ – necrosis. In this case, emergency surgical excision of damaged tissues is required, since a perforation site may form in the necrosis zone, and urine will “poured out” into the abdominal cavity [4].

Signs of a kidney infection or severe cystitis can be suspected in the presence of symptoms of intoxication and aggravation of local symptoms (from the kidneys and bladder), which include [4,5]:

• fever, chills, fever up to 38 °С and above;
• severe general condition: weakness, fatigue, intoxication, nausea, vomiting;
• pain in the side or back;
• visible blood, pus in urine;
• debilitating, painful urination lasting several hours.

If any of these symptoms are present, an ambulance should be called immediately. The patient usually needs hospitalization.

Long-term chronic cystitis can lead to irreversible changes in the bladder.