A urinary tract infection, or UTI, occurs when bacteria are present in the urinary tract, which includes the urethra, bladder and kidneys. The Mayo Clinic states that most UTIs occur in the lower urinary tract; women suffer from UTIs more often than men. Symptoms of a UTI include dark urine, pain when urinating, increased urination and blood in the urine. Antibiotics are the typical treatment for a UTI; however, a variety of home care treatments relieve symptoms associated with the infection.
Hydrate
Drinking water aids in reducing bacteria by flushing the urinary tract. Water increases urination and dilutes infected urine or other factors that are causing irritation. A person should drink one glass of water an hour if a UTI is present, suggests MotherNature.com. Drinking enough water until the flow is clear ensures the urinary system is being cleaned. Carrying a bottle of water throughout the day will encourage hydration.
Cranberry juice is an alternative to water. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, cranberries, blueberries and lignonberries contain proanthocyanadins, or tannins. Tannins may prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract. Drinking 4 to 10 oz. of cranberry juice daily is recomended by the University of Michigan Health System. Diluting the juice is recommended if the juice seems to irritate the urethra, suggests MotherNature.com. The high levels of acid in the juice may cause further irritation.
Heat
Apply a heating pad to the lower abdomen for relief of pain. The heat will also reduce bladder pressure, a common symptom of a UTI. Massaging castor oil onto the abdomen will reduce bladder cramping and pelvic discomfort according to Healthcommunities.com. After the castor oil is rubbed in, add a hot water bottle wrapped in a piece of flannel or soft towel to the area. The heating method is an old-fashioned yet effective way to relief discomfort from UTIs.
Clothing
A woman suffering from a UTI should wear loose clothing for comfort. Tight clothing such as underwear, pants or even pantyhose adds pressure to the urethra. Wearing skirts or loose pants is suggested by MotherNature.com.
