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UTIs are among the most common bacterial infections in women. Although anyone can get a UTI, women are more likely to get them. Over 50% of women claim to have at least one UTI. And, women often end up getting another infection after the first time.
A UTI is an infection caused by a buildup of harmful bacteria in the kidney, bladder, or urinary tract. UTI’s can be mild with minimal symptoms. But, if not treated quickly can cause pain, fever, and vomiting.
The traditional UTI treatments are general antibiotics. However, for people who hope to avoid taking medicine, there are various natural remedies and preventative measures that can be effective.
Do You Need Antibiotics?
Although antibiotics are highly effective in treating UTIs, many low-level infections can be cleared up without medications. Over 40% of UTIs will eventually clear on their own with several home remedies available to help speed up your recovery.
Complicated infections that include pain or fever should be addressed by your doctor immediately.
Signs of a complex UTI include a reduction in urine flow, extreme pain while urinating, bloody urine, and fever. If you experience any of these symptoms, you will likely require an antibiotic to clear up the infection.
Risks of Antibiotics
Most people are tolerant of generic antibiotics that help to kill the bacteria that cause UTIs. Unfortunately, some people have allergies that prevent them from taking antibiotics.
In 20% of cases of UTIs treated with antibiotics resulted in a new fungal infection called Vaginal Candida. Some of the other side effects of common antibiotics include:
When patients have been prescribed antibiotics for an infection, there is a risk that it can cause a natural resistance in certain bacteria. These germs quickly learn how to adapt, making antibiotics ineffective for the next treatment.
Many doctors are hesitant to prescribe too many antibiotics for this reason. It has also been found that antibiotics can harm or destroy the healthy bacteria within the body and weaken the natural immune system.
Natural Treatments
Hydration
Staying hydrated by drinking at least 6-8 glasses of water a day is the simplest way to help avoid Urinary Tract Infections. Adding more water to your system can help to flush harmful bacteria out of your system.
Being adequately hydrated can also dilute urine, which allows it to flow more quickly through your system. The added speed makes it harder for bacteria to attach to the surrounding tissues causing infection.
Cranberry Juice
This natural tonic is a popular preventative treatment for UTIs. It’s powerful inflammatory properties help tissues recover quickly from an infection. Cranberry juice contains a unique chemical compound that discourages bacteria like E-coli from attaching to tissues inside the urinary tract.
The general recommendation is to drink up to 400mL per day until the UTI has cleared.
Urinate Often
Holding urine in your bladder can be tough on your system. When you have a UTI, it’s important to go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the need. Frequent urination can help to clear out your system quickly. You don’t want to leave bacteria-infected urine in your bladder, where it can attach to tissues.
Proper Cleaning
UTIs can develop when fecal bacteria gain access to the urinary tract. Most of the time, this happens when proper personal cleaning practices are not followed.
You should always wipe from the front to the back. Using wet wipes for a complete cleaning can prevent bacteria from staying in the genital area.
Sexual Hygiene
Sexual intercourse involves skin-to-skin contact, which can transfer germs and bacteria from one person to another. Bacteria can then travel up the urinary tract into the bladder and cause an infection.
Adopting good sexual hygiene habits can help to prevent UTIs. Here are some examples:
Probiotics
Probiotics are healthy natural bacteria that can help keep the urinary tract healthy. The lactobacilli group of probiotics can prevent harmful bacteria from attaching to tissues, produce antibacterial hydrogen peroxide in urine, and lower the urine’s pH level, creating less of a welcoming environment for bacteria. You can get probiotics from eating these foods:
Having a UTI can be uncomfortable and, if not treated quickly, can become dangerous. It’s essential to see your doctor if you have any symptoms of complicated infection. For mild infections and prevention, try some of these home remedies to clear up your UTI quickly.
Antibiotics are the best treatment to speedily clear up your infection, but if you are looking for alternative treatments, these natural options might work for you.