According to PDRhealth, urine infections, also known as UTI or urinary tract infections, can involve the urinary bladder, kidneys, prostate and the ducts that travel to the outside of the body. (See References 1) In women, this opening, called the urethra, is especially susceptible to infection due to its proximity to the anus and vagina. Antibiotics are the treatment of choice by physicians, but many home remedies have been recorded. There is insufficient evidence to prove the effectiveness of most home remedies. Anyone with a suspected infection should see a physician.
Cranberry Juice
Probably the best known home remedy for UTI is cranberry juice. Healthcommunities.com states that cranberry juice acts as as a disinfectant on the urinary system. (See References 2) It is important to drink only juice sweetened by fruit juices, not sugar. The cranberry juice prevents the bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary system. Healthcommunities.com recommends at least 16 ounces of juice per day. This data has not been proven by adequate scientific evidence. Always see a doctor before starting any self-treatment.
Fluids
Increasing the intake of fluids can aid in treating a urinary tract infection. Bacteria thrive in quiet calm places. Moving large amounts of fluids through the system disturbs bacteria's growth pattern. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends 8 to 10 glasses of water per day in addition to teas and unsweetened fruit juices. (See References 3) They also recommend avoiding stimulant fluids such as coffee and alcohol. A doctor should be consulted if an infection is suspected.
Pain Treatment
UTI can be very painful. It is common to have not only burning with urination but also abdominal cramps. The Mayo Clinic recommends using a heating pad on the abdomen to relieve the abdominal ache. (See References 4) PDRhealth recommends using over the counter pain remedies such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to aid in pain remediation. If an infection is suspected, especially if there is pain involved, consult a physician.
Vitamin Supplements
Infections are more likely to occur if the body is not receiving proper nutrition. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking a multivitamin every day. (See References 3) The immune system is strengthened by vitamin C and L-glutamine. Omega-3 fatty acids decrease inflammation. Inositol hexophosphonate strengthens the kidneys. Grapefruit seed extract is an antibiotic and antiviral. Before taking supplements if one suspects an infection, a doctor should be consulted.
Herbs
Healthcommunities.com says herbs do not have side effects like drugs when taken at the recommended dose. (See References 2) The herb goldenseal root may have antibiotic properties. Uva ursi is said to have antiseptic properties. Cleavers is purported to be good for urinary infections. Horsetail may have healing properties and may act as a diuretic. None of these claims have adequate scientific evidence of their efficacy. See a doctor before taking any herbs.
Member Comments