Natural prevention for uti: How to Naturally Prevent a UTI
How to Naturally Prevent a UTI
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a fairly common type of infection with more than three million cases reported annually.
Caused by bacteria entering part of the urinary tract that impacts the bladder, urethra or kidneys, it is most often found in women. Symptoms usually include a dull ache or a feeling of “heaviness” in the lower abdomen and a need to rush to urinate.
Some of these preventative steps involve changes to your diet, while others entail minor lifestyle changes.
What to Eat/Drink to Prevent a UTI
The best thing you can do to prevent a UTI is drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated causes you to use the bathroom more frequently, flushing out any potentially harmful bacteria on a regular basis.
Other things you can eat and drink to help prevent a UTI include:
- Foods such as yogurt that contain probiotics
- Fermented food products that contain probiotics, including Kefir grains, miso soup, sauerkraut, Kimchi, pickles and apple cider vinegar
- Cranberry juice
- Parsley tea
Lifestyle Changes to Prevent a UTI
The materials that you wear, as well as hygiene products that you use can all impact your chances of getting a UTI.
Follow these lifestyle tips:
From the Closet
- Wear loose-fitting clothing and choose cotton, breathable underwear when you can
In the Bathroom
- Use unscented or non-perfumed bath products
- Choose pads, not tampons when you’re menstruating
- Practice common-sense hygiene, such as bathing regularly and wiping from front to back (for girls and women)
- Don’t hold it in – use the bathroom more frequently to rid your body of bacteria
In the Bedroom
Good sexual hygiene is important to help prevent UTIs.
- Always urinate before and after sex to flush any bacteria that has entered your urinary tract
Consider drinking an extra glass of water after sex to help you use the bathroom and get rid of any bacteria.
Treating UTIs
Most UTI cases can be treated by your primary care physician with antibiotics, but there are at-home treatments that may help, including:
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Taking a probiotic
- Drinking unsweetened cranberry juice
- Increasing Vitamin C intake
- Supplements such as D-Mannose, cranberry extract and garlic extract
Some uncomplicated UTIs clear on their own, but most will need to be treated with antibiotics, such as penicillin.
If your symptoms last more than two or three days, consult your doctor. The bacteria can spread to your kidneys and cause more severe problems. Only 10% have a surgically correctable cause to their problem with recurring UTI’s, so, people with more than two cases per year should be evaluated for these less common but curable issues.
Next Steps and Resources:
- Meet our source: Scott Wheeler, M.D.
- To make an appointment with Dr. Wheeler or a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.
6 Home Remedies for UTIs (Urinary Tract Infections)
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- More fluids
- Vitamin C
- Unsweetened cranberry juice
- Probiotics
- Healthy hygiene
- Supplements
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common. A 2022 analysis found that more than 404.6 million people had UTIs worldwide in 2019.
UTIs happen when bacteria, usually from the skin or rectum, enter the urethra.
You can get an infection along any part of the urinary tract, but bladder infections are the most common.
Though UTIs can affect anyone, people assigned female at birth are more prone to them. That’s because the female urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the bladder, is shorter than the male urethra.
The shorter distance makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. The proximity of the urethra to the vagina and rectum, which are sources of bacteria, also plays a role.
Other risk factors for UTIs include:
- history of UTIs
- sexual activity
- poor hygiene
- age, with children and older adults more prone to UTIs
- pregnancy
- changes to vaginal bacteria, which spermicides and menopause can cause
- structural problems in the urinary tract, such as an enlarged prostate
- having a catheter in place
- certain medical conditions, such as diabetes
UTI symptoms
Common UTI symptoms include:
- a burning sensation when peeing
- frequent urination
- cloudy or dark urine
- urine with a strong odor
- a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
- pelvic pain
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Bacteria cause almost 95% of UTIs, but fungi can also cause infection.
Though antibiotics typically treat UTIs, there are several natural ways to help manage infections and reduce the risk of recurrence.
This article reviews six home remedies you can use to treat UTIs.
Language matters
You’ll notice that the language used in this article to share stats and other data points is pretty binary, fluctuating between the use of “male” and “female” or “men” and “women.”
Although we typically avoid language like this, specificity is key when reporting on research participants and clinical findings.
Unfortunately, the studies and surveys referenced in this article didn’t report data on, or include, participants who are transgender, nonbinary, gender nonconforming, genderqueer, agender, or genderless.
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Dehydration is linked to an increased risk of UTIs.
This is because regular urination can help flush bacteria from the urinary tract to prevent infection. When you’re dehydrated, you aren’t urinating as often, which can create a breeding ground for bacteria.
A 2019 study examined nursing home residents and administered a drinking schedule to participants to increase their fluid intake. Following the schedule decreased UTIs requiring antibiotics by 58%.
In a 2020 randomized control trial, 140 premenopausal participants prone to UTIs took part in a 12-month study to test if a higher fluid intake would decrease their risk of recurrent cystitis and, in turn, their risk of developing a UTI. Researchers found that an increase in fluid intake led to a decrease in UTI frequency.
To stay hydrated and meet your fluid needs, it’s best to drink water throughout the day and always when you’re thirsty.
Benefits of drinking more fluids for UTI
Drinking plenty of liquids can decrease your risk of UTIs by making you pee more, which helps remove bacteria from your urinary tract.
Some evidence suggests that increasing your intake of vitamin C could protect against UTIs.
Vitamin C is thought to work by increasing the acidity of urine, killing off the bacteria that cause infection.
A small 2020 randomized placebo study involving 19 people who had undergone kidney transplant found that the amount of bacteria in urine was significantly lower in people who received intravenous vitamin C group compared to the placebo group.
Results from a small 2016 study showed that combining vitamin C with two other popular natural UTI remedies — cranberries and the probiotic lactobacillus rhamnosus — could be an effective treatment for recurrent UTIs.
Fruits and vegetables are especially high in vitamin C and are a good way to increase your intake.
Red peppers, oranges, grapefruit, and kiwifruit all contain the full recommended daily amount of vitamin C in just one serving.
Despite these studies, more research is needed to prove vitamin C’s effectiveness in reducing UTI risk. Plus, there are conflicting views on whether vitamin C can really change the acidity of your urine enough to kill off bacteria. However, at the very least, increasing your vitamin C intake will likely offer some extra support for your immune system.
You can try products like vitamin C gummies or supplements to boost your normal daily intake.
Emergen-C 1000mg Vitamin C Powder
- Price: $$
- What it’s good for: for people who may not want to take vitamin C in capsule form
A liquid form of your daily dose of vitamin C, Emergen-C Vitamin C Powder is packed with the support needed for daily immunity. As a drink, it provides immune support and delivers antioxidants such as zinc and manganese, vitamin B, and electrolytes.
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Nature Made Extra Strength Dosage Vitamin C
- Price: $
- What it’s good for: kids who might need an extra boost of vitamin C
These tangerine-flavored gummies are an easy, tasty way to receive immune support from vitamin C. Each daily dosage boasts 500 mg of vitamin C.
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Benefits of vitamin C for UTI
Increasing vitamin C intake may decrease your risk of UTIs by making your urine more acidic, thus killing infection-causing bacteria.
Drinking unsweetened cranberry juice is one of the most well-known natural remedies for UTIs. If drinking unsweetened cranberry juice isn’t your thing, you can also take it in capsule form.
Cranberries work by helping to prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract.
In a 2016 study, participants with recent histories of UTIs drank an 8-ounce (240-mL) serving of cranberry juice every day for 24 weeks. Those who drank cranberry juice had fewer UTI episodes than the control group.
Another study showed that consuming cranberry products may lower the number of UTIs someone experiences in a year in a year, especially for those who have recurrent UTIs.
In a more recent study, participants with a history of recurring uncomplicated UTIs reported a reduction in infections after taking a cranberry supplement for six months prior.
However, some other studies suggest that cranberry juice may not be as effective in the prevention of UTIs.
Because of the inconsistent results of recent studies, researchers published a review of existing studies on the topic in 2021.
They initially identified 3,421 studies, and ultimately found 23 trials with sufficient data for inclusion.
The results of the meta-analysis showed that cranberry supplementation significantly reduced the incidence of UTIs. While the researchers suggested that cranberry be used alongside other therapies to treat and prevent UTIs, they also noted that several of the included trials had limitations.
Although the evidence is mixed, cranberry juice may help reduce the risk of UTIs. Whether it actually works as a treatment for an active UTI is less cut and dry.
Keep in mind that any possible benefits of this home remedy only apply to unsweetened cranberry juice, rather than sweetened varieties. Cranberry juice with added sugars won’t help treat an active UTI.
Cranberry concentrate or cranberry juice such as this one could be one way to reduce the risks of a UTI.
Benefits of cranberries for UTI
Some studies suggest that cranberries could help reduce your risk of UTIs by preventing bacteria from adhering to your urinary tract.
Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that are consumed through food or supplements. They can promote a healthy balance of bacteria in your gut.
Probiotics are available in supplement form or can be found in fermented foods, such as kefir, kimchi, kombucha, and probiotic yogurt.
Consuming probiotics has been linked to many things, from improved digestive health to enhanced immune function.
Some studies have shown that probiotics may reduce the risk of UTIs. These studies have involved the use of oral and vaginally-administered probiotics, as well as different probiotic strains.
Antibiotics, the main line of defense against UTIs, can cause disturbances in levels of gut bacteria. Probiotics may be beneficial in restoring gut bacteria after antibiotic treatment.
Studies have shown that probiotics can increase levels of good gut bacteria and reduce side effects associated with antibiotic use.
Anyone interested in upping their probiotic intake could try these ones by Renew Life:
Renew Life Probiotics for Women
- Price: $$$
- What it’s good for: women’s care and health
Known for preventing bad bacteria from impacting your gut probiotics can also be a good way to look after your vaginal and urinary health.
This product has been shown to balance healthy pH and yeast levels and supports general autoimmune health too.
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Benefits of probiotics for UTI
Probiotics could help prevent UTIs and are beneficial for restoring gut bacteria after antibiotic treatment.
Preventing UTIs starts with practicing a few good bathroom and hygiene habits.
First, it’s important not to hold your urine for too long. This can lead to a buildup of bacteria, resulting in infection.
Peeing after sex has long been linked to a reduced risk of UTIs by preventing the spread of bacteria and is recommended by health authorities, including Planned Parenthood.
Additionally, those who are prone to UTIs should avoid using spermicide, as it has been linked to an increase in UTIs.
Finally, when using the toilet — especially if you have a female urethra — make sure you wipe front to back. Wiping from back to front can cause bacteria to spread to the urinary tract and is associated with an increased risk of UTIs.
One way to stop or prevent any bacteria from spreading amongst genitalia is by using Always Feminine Wipes.
Always Feminine Wipes
- Price: $
- What it’s good for: easy and convenient access throughout the day
Easily resealable and compact enough to keep on your person, these wipes are lightly scented to ensure you feel fresh and clean throughout the day.
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Benefits of healthy hygiene for UTI
Urinating frequently and after sexual intercourse can reduce the risk of UTI. Careful wiping when you use the toilet may also help decrease the risk of UTI.
Several natural supplements may decrease the risk of developing a UTI.
Here are a few supplements that have been studied and are all available in capsule form:
Nature’s Bounty Cranberry with Vitamin C
- Price: $$
- What it’s good for: all-in-one supplement to support both urinary and immune health
Made from cranberry concentrate and a dose of vitamin C, these contain the equivalent of 4,200 mg of cranberries.
In addition to supporting urinary health, these also contain many antioxidants that can help build up the immune system.
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Nature’s Bounty Garlic Extract
- Price: $$
- What it’s good for: alternative treatment to prevent the growth of bacteria in the body as a whole
While potentially beneficial as a prevention method for UTIs, garlic extract is also known to promote heart and cardiovascular health and helps maintain cholesterol health.
While not many studies have specialized in the effects of garlic in treating UTIs, one older study found that the combination of garlic oil and parsley in pills could have a synergistic effect on bacterial growth and proliferation.
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- D-mannose: D-mannose is a type of sugar that is found in cranberries. Research suggests it’s effective in treating UTIs and preventing recurrence.
- Cranberry extract: Like cranberry juice, cranberry extract works by preventing bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract.
- Garlic extract: Research shows garlic and garlic extract to have antimicrobial properties, so they may be able to block the growth of bacteria to prevent UTIs.
Benefits of natural supplements for UTI
D-mannose, bearberry leaf, and cranberry extract are natural supplements that have been shown to prevent UTIs and decrease recurrence.
UTI supplement options
Read our full review of Uqora, a company that focuses on developing natural supplements for UTI prevention.
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Here are some ways you can manage UTI symptoms that may also help prevent a recurrence:
- Stay well hydrated.
- Avoid or limit foods and drinks that can irritate the bladder, such as coffee, soft drinks, and citrus.
- Avoid holding in your pee for too long.
- Apply a heating pad or hot water bottle to minimize bladder discomfort.
- Ask your doctor about prescription or OTC pain medication.
- Take all your antibiotics as prescribed by your healthcare professional.
It’s important to talk with a doctor if you have symptoms of a UTI. While natural remedies may help, a medical professional can diagnose a UTI and prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.
Left untreated, UTIs have a risk of severe complications, including spreading to your kidneys. Don’t ignore signs of a severe infection.
Get in touch with a healthcare professional if you experience any of the following:
- a fever over 103°F (39.4°C)
- shaking
- chills
- nausea
- vomiting
- blood in your urine
Why are females at a higher risk for UTIs?
People with female reproductive organs are at a higher risk for UTIs because of their anatomy. The female urethra, the tube which empties urine from your bladder out of your body, is shorter than someone born with male anatomy.
The female urethra is also quite close to female reproductive organs.
That means bacteria from sexual intercourse as well as products like spermicide can be in close contact with the urethra and bladder.
Females also experience menopause and pregnancy. These two biological events change the bacteria in your reproductive and digestive tracts and create conditions that make UTIs more likely.
Should UTI treatment vary according to what’s causing the infection?
Your UTI treatment may vary according to what’s causing the infection. Certain UTIs, especially chronic and recurring ones, will need antibiotic treatment as opposed to simple home remedies.
If you’re prescribed antibiotics to treat a UTI, a healthcare professional may choose an antibiotic that’s specific to the type of bacteria that’s triggering your infection.
Will over-the-counter products (OTC) products like AZO get rid of my UTI?
Maybe. OTC products like AZO contain active ingredients that have antibacterial properties. In the case of AZO, the active ingredient is a compound called methenamine.
In combination with an anti-inflammatory compound, these products are meant to help your body kill harmful bacteria.
For powerful bacterial infections, the active ingredients in OTC products just might not be enough. Also, most of these products advertise as a protection against UTIs, not necessarily a treatment for current, active infections.
Can you get rid of a UTI naturally at home, or do you need antibiotics?
Sometimes, you can get rid of a UTI naturally by resting, drinking lots of water, taking dietary supplements, and giving the infection some time to heal. Research from 2017 suggests that somewhere between 25% and 42% of UTIs resolve naturally without the use of antibiotics.
However, there are certain situations where “wait and see” just isn’t an acceptable approach. Untreated UTIs can cause potentially life threatening complications, including sepsis.
When do I need to see a doctor for a UTI?
UTIs do have a risk of severe complications if they’re left untreated.
UTIs that affect your kidneys and bladder need to be treated by a professional. Don’t ignore signs of a severe infection.
Signs that it’s time to get in touch with a healthcare professional include:
- a fever over 103°F (39.4°C)
- shaking
- chills
- nausea
- vomiting
- blood in your urine
What happens if a UTI is left untreated?
Left untreated, a UTI can spread higher in the urinary tract to the kidneys or ureters, which are the tubes that connect the bladder to the kidneys.
Upper UTIs can cause severe symptoms, damage the kidneys, and spread to the bloodstream, becoming life threatening.
Can UTIs cause kidney infections?
Yes, UTIs can spread to the kidneys and have the potential to damage the kidneys if not treated promptly.
If you have the following signs of a kidney infection, seek immediate medical treatment:
- fever of 100.4ºF (38ºC) or above
- chills
- pain in your back or sides
- agitation or restlessness
- confusion
What are signs that your UTI is healing?
UTIs typically clear up within 3 to 5 days of starting treatment.
You should start to notice a gradual improvement in your pain and other symptoms.
If you don’t notice any improvement within this time frame or your symptoms are getting worse, talk with your doctor.
UTIs are a common and frustrating problem, particularly if they keep recurring.
Home remedies and OTC products can help prevent UTIs, but they can’t always completely eliminate the bacteria causing your infection. If you’re trying home remedies but still have symptoms, talk with a healthcare professional to avoid any complications.
Staying hydrated, practicing health-promoting habits, and supplementing your diet with some UTI-fighting ingredients are good ways to lower your risk of these infections in the future.
Read this article in Spanish.
Treatment and prevention of urinary tract infections: tips and tricks
Learn about the best ways to treat and prevent urinary tract infections to keep your kidneys and bladder healthy. Tips for strengthening immunity and proper nutrition.
Urinary tract infections are one of the most common diseases today, especially among women. Many people have problems with the bladder and kidneys, which lead to unpleasant symptoms and can complicate the general condition of the body.
However, certain methods can prevent and treat urinary tract infections. In this article, we will consider the main methods of prevention, as well as methods of treatment of this disease.
It is important to note that diseases of the urinary tract can lead to serious complications if they are not addressed in time. Therefore, you should take care of prevention in advance, and immediately seek medical help at the first sign.
To prevent urinary tract infections, hygiene and a healthy lifestyle are essential. You need to drink enough water to keep your urine regular. Uncontrollable urination should be carried out as needed and on time. The mode of sleep and wakefulness should also be balanced.
Do not abuse foods that make urine acidic or alkaline.
This leads to a change in the pH level of urine and creates favorable conditions for the reproduction of microorganisms.
The choice of treatment for urinary tract infections depends on the type and intensity of the infection, the infectious organism present, and sensitivity to antibiotics. Antibacterial drugs may be one of the best treatments for urinary tract infections. They should not be taken without a doctor’s prescription or without establishing an accurate diagnosis.
The patient’s diet, fluid intake, general hygiene and prevention are important. These actions will help to avoid urinary tract infections in the future.
Urinary tract infections are diseases that affect various parts of the genitourinary system, such as the bladder, ureters, and kidneys. They occur when bacteria or other microorganisms infect these organs and cause inflammation.
Urinary tract infections usually occur when bacteria normally found in the intestines enter the urinary tract.
This can happen through improper use of toilet paper, poor hygiene, contact with infected animals, or through sexual contact.
Symptoms of urinary tract infections may include pain when urinating, frequent urination, severe pain in the lower abdomen, fever, and feeling tired. If left untreated, urinary tract infections can lead to more serious conditions such as pyelonephritis or kidney failure.
Urinary tract infections are a serious condition that can occur for a variety of reasons. Some of them may be controllable and some may not. But in general, the following factors underlie the occurrence of urinary tract infections:
In general, the causes of urinary tract infections can be multifaceted, so it is important to lead a healthy lifestyle, pay due attention to personal hygiene, do not overuse antibiotics, take preventive measures during sexual intercourse and seek medical attention at the first symptoms of the disease.
Q&A:
What are the causes of urinary tract infections?
The causes can be various bacteria, viruses, fungi.
Also, urinary tract infections can be caused by improper personal hygiene care, decreased immunity, diseases of the urinary organs.
What are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection?
Symptoms vary, but the most common are frequent urination, pain and burning when urinating, bad smelling urine, blood in the urine, pain in the lower back.
How to treat urinary tract infections?
Treatment may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, alpha-blockers, sedatives. It is also necessary to monitor the hygiene of the genital organs, drink plenty of fluids and observe the daily routine.
Which drugs are effective in preventing urinary tract infections?
Cystone, Canephron, Phytolysin, Urogold can be used to prevent infections. These drugs help to eliminate the inflammatory process, the destruction of stones, soothe urination.
Is it possible to treat urinary tract infections with folk remedies?
Folk remedies can help eliminate the symptoms of the disease, but cannot replace complex treatment, which includes taking medications.
Folk remedies such as herbal tea from St. John’s wort, calendula tincture, grain coffee, etc., can help relieve pain, reduce the urge to urinate, and eliminate inflammation. But before using folk remedies, it is always recommended to consult a doctor.
How to prevent urinary tract infections?
To prevent infections, it is necessary to monitor genital hygiene, regularly rinse the urethra, avoid hypothermia, maintain immunity, avoid long-term use of diaphragm-based contraception, use protective condoms during periods of active sexual activity.
Symptoms of urinary tract infections
Lower abdominal pain
Urinary tract infections may cause pain inside the abdomen, in the lower abdomen.
Frequent urination
A person with a urinary tract infection may need to urinate more frequently than usual. The discharge may be cloudy or bloody.
Feeling sick and weak
Urinary tract infections often cause feelings of tiredness, weakness and malaise.
Burning or painful urination
Some people experience burning or pain when urinating. This is an individual symptom and is not always present.
An unmistakable sign of infection
Chem… People around you notice that you have a low tone, you constantly yawn, you cannot concentrate even on simple tasks, or you are tormented by body pains and signs of insomnia are easily possible.
Hemorrhages in the urine
Sometimes an infection can lead to visible hemorrhages or bloody discharge in the urine.
Diagnosis of urinary tract infections
Urinary tract infections are common but are not always easy to diagnose. To correctly determine the presence of an infection, it is necessary to examine the urinary tract and determine its type.
First, the doctor conducts a visual examination of the genitourinary system and collects an anamnesis. After that, the patient is recommended to take a urine test for the presence of bacteria and leukocytes.
If, as a result of the analysis, the detected indicators exceed the norm, then this may indicate the presence of an infection.To more accurately determine the type of infection and its location in the urinary tract, additional research methods can be used, such as ultrasound, X-ray, CT scanner, cystoscopy, etc.
It is important to remain vigilant and see a doctor at the first sign of an infection, as symptoms can mimic those of other illnesses, and delays in diagnosis and treatment can lead to serious complications.
Treatment of urinary tract infections: effective methods and recommendations
Drink enough water
Drinking enough water helps to eliminate bacteria and restore the health of the urinary tract. It is recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.
Take antibiotics
Antibiotics are the most effective medicine for fighting urinary tract infections. The dosage and duration of administration is determined by the doctor.
Insulate the lower body
Insulate the lower body to prevent the disease from getting worse and reduce the risk of re-infection. To do this, you can wear warm pants and socks, do not sit or lie on a cold surface.
Avoid foods that promote bacterial growth
Infectious bacteria in the urinary tract multiply rapidly in highly acidic urine. One of the main factors of this condition is the consumption of sour, spicy and salty foods. They should be excluded from the diet during treatment of the infection.
Use thermal treatments
Thermal treatments such as compresses and heating pads help reduce pain, improve blood circulation and speed up the healing process. However, before using such procedures, you should consult your doctor.
Important to remember:
- Do not put off going to the doctor at the first sign of a urinary tract infection;
- Avoid hypothermia;
- Follow your doctor’s advice and never exceed the dosage and duration of your medications.
Prevention of urinary tract infections
Drink enough fluids
One of the main ways to prevent urinary tract infections is to drink enough water and other fluids. The liquid helps remove bacteria and other harmful substances from the body, which helps prevent their reproduction.
Maintain hygiene
Another important aspect of urinary tract infection prevention is hygiene. Remember to wash your face and wash your hands before and after going to the toilet, change your underwear on time, and don’t use other people’s toiletries.
Avoid long-term use of contraceptives
Long-term use of contraceptives may increase the risk of urinary tract infections. If necessary, contact your doctor to determine the appropriate contraceptive method for you.
After intimate contact
After intimate contact, it is recommended to wash the intimate areas in a timely manner to avoid the possibility of bacteria entering the urinary tract.
Take care of your immunity
Strong immunity is the key to the health of the whole organism. Try to watch your diet, do not overwork and lead an active lifestyle to protect your immunity and increase the body’s resistance to infections.
Nutrition for urinary tract infections
Drinking enough fluids
Drinking plenty of fluids is especially important for urinary tract infections. At least 8 glasses of water a day will help flush out bacteria and reduce inflammation. Soda water, coffee, and alcohol should be avoided as these drinks can irritate the bladder.
Immune-Supporting Nutrition
For urinary tract infections, it is especially important to eat foods rich in vitamins and minerals that strengthen the immune system. Vitamin C, found in citrus fruits, berries, and green vegetables, and vitamin A, found in yellow and orange-colored vegetables, may be helpful in this case. In addition, you should reduce the amount of refined carbohydrates and sugar in your diet, as they can suppress the immune system.
Food that reduces inflammation
For urinary tract infections, eating anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce inflammation and pain. Antioxidant fruits and vegetables such as broccoli, berries, and asparagus, as well as omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils and nuts, may be helpful.
- Avoid spicy and fatty foods as they can aggravate urinary tract inflammation.
- Reduce the amount of salt you eat as it can dehydrate your body.
- If you are taking antibiotics, make sure you eat food that the antibiotic does not prohibit.
Traditional treatments for urinary tract infections
Urinary tract infections are a fairly common disease that can lead to serious complications. Since infections are caused by bacteria or viruses, antibiotics are usually used to treat them. However, there are traditional therapies that can be helpful when combined with medical therapy.
Cystone is an herbal preparation that helps fight urinary tract infections.
It has antibacterial properties and enhances the action of antibiotics. Cystone also improves the functioning of the urinary system, promotes the elimination of harmful substances from the body and reduces inflammation.
Cranberry is another known treatment for urinary tract infections. Cranberries contain substances that prevent bacteria from attaching to the walls of the bladder and ureters. In addition, the use of cranberries improves the functioning of the urinary system and reduces the risk of recurrence of the disease.
Peach leaves contain substances that have disinfectant properties and relieve inflammation of the urinary tract. To prepare the infusion, use fresh or dry peach leaves, which insist on boiling water. Peach infusion also helps to remove toxins from the body.
Treatment of urinary tract infections requires an integrated approach. Conventional therapies can help enhance drug therapy and speed up the healing process.
However, before starting any treatment, you should consult your doctor.
When should I see a doctor for urinary tract infections?
Urinary tract infections are a common condition that requires medical attention for proper treatment and prevention. If you notice the following symptoms: pain in the lower abdomen, frequent urination, pain during urination, pain when urinating, changes in the color of urine – this may be a sign of a urinary tract infection.
If you have these symptoms:
- See a doctor as soon as possible;
- Do not delay your visit to the doctor, because the urinary tract infection can progress and lead to complications;
- Self-medication may worsen the condition and make diagnosis difficult;
- It is strongly recommended not to take antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription and without recommendations for their use.
The doctor will diagnose and prescribe the appropriate course of treatment.
He can also give advice on preventing urinary tract infections.
Symptoms of urinary tract infection Symptom Description
| Pain in the lower abdomen | Discomfort in and around the bladder |
| Frequent urination | Increased need to urinate even if little urine is produced |
| Pain during urination time | Unpleasant sensations that make urination painful |
| Urinary pain | Urinary discomfort |
| Changes in urine color | Urine that is too dark, cloudy, or blood in the urine Urinary tract infections are common that need to be treated. When choosing drugs for the treatment of urinary tract infections, special care must be taken. Some medicines can harm the kidneys or cause an allergic reaction, so you should consult your doctor before taking them.
Another important point is the correct use of the medicine. It is necessary to strictly follow the instructions of the doctor, do not change the dosage or the period of taking the medicine. Also, do not stop the medicine yourself, even if a quick cure of the infection is a great chance not to continue taking the medicine.
Conclusions Urinary tract infections are a serious problem for human health. The symptoms of such diseases can be quite unpleasant, so it is important to know how to prevent and treat them. Prevention of UTIs includes long-term measures to strengthen the immune system, such as a healthy daily routine, getting enough vitamins and minerals, and taking care of the genitourinary system. A variety of treatments are used to treat UTIs, including antibiotics, diuretics, and anti-inflammatory drugs. However, like any medication, they can have side effects, so it’s important not to overuse them.
In general, whenever symptoms of a urinary tract infection occur, a physician should be consulted for expert care. With regular preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of infection, and proper treatment will help to avoid complications and heal faster. Urinary tract infection in childrenUrinary tract infection is the presence of a clinically significant number of bacteria in the urinary tract in a patient with clinical manifestations of infection [2]. This definition is given to us by foreign colleagues. In domestic recommendations, the definition is somewhat simpler, and this, in our opinion, creates some confusion in the heads of doctors, and, as a result, parents.
A little later I will explain why the difference in definitions is so important. Urinary tract infection occurs at different ages with different frequency. It is customary to say that in children under 3 months the average frequency is about 7.2%, while in girls it is about 7.5%, and in boys it is 2.3% with circumcised foreskin and 20.1% without circumcision. At the age of over 3 months, such striking differences are no longer found, and the frequency of occurrence is 4. Why is a urinary tract infection dangerous?First of all, the fact that as a result of the course of the infectious process, the death of some parts of the renal tissue may occur, as a result of which scars will form. This is called nephrosclerosis. It is bad because the scar, unlike the renal tissue, which is called the parenchyma, does not perform the functions of the kidney, that is, the renal function decreases. As a result, chronic kidney disease develops, or, as it was previously called, chronic renal failure. Also, until we started discussing the causes and other things associated with UTIs in children, I want to note that the division of urinary tract infections in children into the usual cystitis, pyelonephritis at an early age is extremely difficult, in this regard, it is customary to use a broad term UTI for children under two years of age. CausesThe causes of any infection are infectious agents. There are several of them: bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa . In the case of urinary tract infections in children, the most common cause is bacteria . Urinary tract infections of viral etiology are extremely rare in children, usually they are children older than two years and it manifests itself most often as cystitis, fungal infections are always associated with immunodeficiencies, and therefore are also quite rare [3,2]. About bacteria: the leader in this matter is E. coli. Its share in the structure of the incidence of urinary infections accounts for about 80%. Of course, both Klebsiela and Proteus and various types of Staphylococci are capable of causing UTI and even cause it, but their proportion is not very large. Moreover, if we focus on the global evidence base, it is urinary tract infections caused by Escherichia coli that most often lead to the formation of nephrosclerosis [1,3,4]. PathogenesisA terrible word, this will probably be the most difficult to read section of this article, but without understanding it, it will be quite difficult to understand the logic of diagnosis and treatment. We will try to make it as accessible as possible. A huge amount of research tells us that bacteria enter the urinary tract from below. In medicine, this is called the ascending pathway of penetration, but this is not particularly important. From below, this is not from the floor, as one might think, but from the skin of the perineum and the mucous membrane of the genital organs. However, this does not mean at all that it is urgent to wash the child with antibacterial soap.
In order for bacteria, like any organism, to survive, they have all sorts of useful devices. For example, small legs (drank), with which they can attach to the mucous membrane, or a capsule that protects the cell wall from an aggressive environment. All these things, bacteria acquire in the process of evolution and interaction with various environments. In addition, we ourselves actively help them in this matter, for example, when they use antibacterial drugs uncontrollably and incorrectly. [6, 7, 8] After the bacteria have entered the urethra, they diligently begin to climb higher, and here our body has something to oppose to them.
The main protective properties of urine include the fact that it flows and this current washes away bacteria that do not cling very tightly to the wall due to mucus. The second equally important property of urine is that it is acidic, and most bacteria do not really like an acidic environment, and if they do not die immediately in it, then at least they stop multiplying. It is on this fact that the idea of taking cranberry-based drugs or products for prevention is based. So why does infection still occur?Mucus is released, urination has become more frequent, urine is acidic in itself, but this does not save if there are too many bacteria. No matter how cool the 3 musketeers are, but there are only three of them, if the guardsmen have a numerical advantage, the musketeers cannot cope. When is there a lot of bacteria?
Usually these are the most common reasons that bacteria still break into the urinary tract. It seems that we figured out the pathogenesis, drove on. I hope those who read carefully will be a little less afraid of a urine test with 3 leukocytes. Clinical pictureSymptoms of UTIs in children differ depending on the age of the child [1]. It is customary to talk about signs of infection in a child younger than two years old. Why are the manifestations different?Most likely this is due to the fact that it is extremely difficult for a child under 2 years old to complain, and we are forced to focus on objective indicators of the disease. Objective symptoms of UTI in a child under 2 years of age, most often only one – an increase in body temperature above 38.5 degrees Celsius, without other signs of infection. Namely, the pediatrician examines and ascertains the absence of cough, redness of the throat, runny nose and other signs of respiratory infections.
What about our favorite urine test. Urine analysis is of clinical importance only if there is a guarantee of a sterile set of this very urine. Recommendations say that the guarantee of a clean collection is collection with a sterile urinary catheter or suprapubic puncture of the bladder. And one and the other way is only suitable for a doctor. That is, the urine collected by the mother in a jar to assess the presence of a urinary tract infection is not suitable. [1,2,4,5]. In children older than two years, additional symptoms of a urinary tract infection may appear, such as: frequent urination, pain when urinating, pain in the lumbar region or above the pubis. But, here it is also very important that all this should be the same against the background of an increase in temperature above 38.5 degrees. Urinary tract infection in healthy children always occurs with fever. Separately, I would like to note such a moment as the smell of urine. There is a discrepancy between our recommendations and foreign ones. Foreigners say that the smell of urine is not a diagnostic symptom of urinary tract infection in children and at the same time refer to a number of clinical studies in which parents, using a questionnaire, noted that the smell was different from the usual one, and doctors, not knowing about the questionnaire, diagnosed UTIs. As a result, most studies have not found a clear statistically significant relationship between urine odor and UTI in children [1]. Our guidelines state that foul-smelling urine is a clinical criterion for urinary tract infection, without reference to anything [4]. This is how we write recommendations, nothing can be done about it.
Given the very minor manifestations of urinary tract infections in children, there are very few diagnostic methods, not because there are few methods, but because more is simply not needed. To diagnose a urinary tract infection in children, an examination by a pediatrician is sufficient. If the child can collect an average portion of urine, then a urine test will also help. Also, if a urinary tract infection is suspected, ultrasound of the kidneys and bladder is performed in order to assess the state of these same organs [2]. The main examinations begin after a urinary tract infection, as we need to exclude what is called in medical language – a complicated urinary tract infection. Here again we run into differences, this time between the recommendations of pediatricians and the recommendations of urologists. The American Academy of Pediatrics considers that a single episode of urinary tract infection is not a reason to conduct an examination [1]. The American Association of Urology (there are no separate pediatric urologists and this is reasonable) does not agree with this idea, because there is about a 40% chance of missing vesicoureteral reflux and other pathologies that do not manifest themselves in any way. The European Association of Pediatric Urology also disagrees with the idea of no examination for a single urinary tract infection. As a result, until a consensus has been reached in the following way: if the child has had a urinary tract infection and, according to ultrasound data, he has no signs of expansion of the pyelocaliceal system of the kidneys, then it is possible not to examine, but to control the ultrasound of the kidneys and bladder. Here, it is important to remember that the infection must be confirmed clinically. That is, there should be a clinical picture if we are talking about children under 2 years old. If the child is older than two years, then there should be a clinical picture, analysis and urine culture. And the second point, which is no less important for children older than two years. If they have a urinary tract infection, it is imperative to indicate the location of the infection. This is where the well-known come on stage: cystitis and pyelonephritis. How to treat? Given the fact that we are talking about an infection, that is, about the presence of bacteria, we treat it with antibacterial drugs. The doctor at the appointment will tell you about the dosage, duration, etc., but there is no other method of treating the infection. Where, then, are all the different preparations for prophylaxis?They are for prevention. But prevention is the measures we take to prevent re-infection. It is usually done after treatment, when we have proven clear test results and understand that there are no bacteria in the urinary tract. What methods are available to prevent UTIs in children?Given the fact that there are natural functions of the body that protect us from the penetration of bacteria into the urinary tract, prevention should begin influencing these same functions:
Currently, bacteriophage preparations are being actively studied and used for the prevention of urinary tract infections, including in children. TerminalsAs a conclusion, I would like to say that urinary tract infection is a rather wide problem for a number of reasons:
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For example, it is strictly forbidden to recommend antibiotics to young children and pregnant women. In such cases, treatment using herbal preparations may be prescribed.
5–6.5%. And it remains approximately the same throughout the entire period of childhood, while in girls the frequency of occurrence is approximately 4 times higher than in boys [1].
In addition, when mucus is produced, the blood flow increases, and with the blood flow, a huge amount of very useful for protection comes to this place, including leukocytes and other substances that are so “favorite” by mothers, which, after getting into place, come to grips with the intruder. [1,6].
The only problem is that the body is a little more complicated than a pot of soup, but more on that later.
After they have broken through, they begin to actively share, and here the help of doctors is needed.
No other is given. [9, 5] All parents whose children were diagnosed with chronic pyelonephritis by urinalysis, in the absence of clinical symptoms – congratulations. You most likely do not have any chronic pyelonephritis.
Although, it should be noted that this is also not the main feature, so let’s forgive our creators this discrepancy.
Namely, anomalies in the development of the urinary tract.
If a child has had a urinary tract infection more than 1 time, even without changes according to ultrasound, a complete urological examination is indicated [10].
If someone says: you have a urinary tract infection – drink vitamins, dietary supplements, herbal remedies – this has nothing to do with treatment. In order to cure the infection, you need to kill the bacteria in the urinary tract.
According to currently available data, these methods show good efficiency, but research is ongoing.