Urinary tract infections occur anywhere along the urinary tract from the urethra to the kidneys. Women suffer from UTIs more than men, and most women experience a UTI in their lifetime. Bacteria cause a UTI when it enters the urinary tract through the urethra. The infection often travels through the urinary system into the bladder and occasionally the kidneys. The symptoms of a UTI include amber-colored urine, pain when urinating and pressure in the lower abdomen, according to MedlinePlus.com. A person should seek medical treatment if UTI symptoms last more than a few days and are unresponsive to home treatments. Patients may utilize home remedies in conjunction with antibiotic therapy. UTIs can cause serious complications if bacteria reach the kidneys. In this case, seek professional medical treatment.
Increase Fluids
A person with a UTI should increase fluid consumption. MedlinePlus suggests a person drink between 2 quarts and 4 quarts of liquids a day. A person with a UTI should avoid caffeinated drinks and alcoholic beverages, because the liquids irritate the lining of the bladder. Drinking cranberry or blueberry juice is encouraged. The juices contain proanthocyanidins, which prevent bacteria from sticking to the lining of the bladder. According to MotherNature.com, a person should drink 16 oz. cranberry juice daily to ward off UTIs. The website reminds patients to drink real cranberry juice and not juice cocktails heavily sweetened with sugar.
Heat Therapy
Applying a hot water bottle to the lower abdominal area relieves pain associated with a UTI, reports MayoClinic.com. A patient suffering from a kidney infection has pain in the lower back, or flank, areas. Besides a hot water bottle, an electric blanket or warmed moist towel also decreases discomfort. A person may opt to take a hot bath to relieve UTI pains. Pain and burning around the urethral opening temporarily disappear when taking a hot bath, says HealthCommunities.com. A person should avoid adding fragrances and soaps to the bath, which could increase irritation.
Baking Soda Cocktail
According to Mothernature.com, baking soda decreases the acidic level of urine. The natural health website suggests UTT sufferers mix 1/2 tbsp. baking soda with 8 oz. water. The solution should be consumed at the first sign of a UTI.
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