Bladder infections and other urinary tract infections are usually caused by abnormally high amounts of bacteria. According to the Mayo Clinic, reactions to feminine hygiene products, drugs and radiation are also possible triggers. Symptoms include a frequent urge to urinate and only passing small amounts. Severe burning and itching may be experienced while urinating. Urine may have a cloudy or dark appearance along with a strong smell.
Balancing pH Levels
According to the Urology Channel, there is some speculation as to which environment is more conducive to bacterial growth that causes bladder infections, but evidence seems to point to the alkaline side. Sodium citrate and potassium citrate are minerals that can re-establish alkaline/acid balance in the body. These mineral supplements should be taken in the morning or afternoon. Urine sits in the bladder and builds up during the night, making it possible for these substances to accumulate and cause irritation in the bladder or lead to an infection.
Cleansing the Urinary Tract
Drinking plenty of fluids will flush toxins and large amounts of bacteria out of the bladder. As the bacteria level is reduced, the body's natural defenses can begin to eliminate what is left behind. Drinking liquids with high acids levels, such as coffee and lemonade, may also decrease the chance of infection.
Avoid beverages with large amounts of sugar. Sugar provides breeding ground for bacteria and can throw off the alkaline/acid balance.
Herbal Remedies
According to the Urology Channel, buchu, corn silk, marshmallow, uva ursi and cleavers are herbs that have beneficial properties to prevent or treat urinary tract disorders and infections. These herbs are known to have diuretic and antiseptic properties. Goldenseal is also thought to be a very potent anti-viral and anti-bacterial herb.
Herbs can be taken in capsule form or they can be brewed to make tea. They should be taken according to the directions of a naturopath or other alternative health-care professional. Herbs should be taken with plenty of water so that maximum benefits can be received as they make their way through the body. Teas can offer ongoing benefits if they are consumed throughout the day.
Homeopathic Remedies
Homeopathic remedies come in pellet and liquid forms. Both types of homeopathic remedies must be prescribed by a homeopathic physician. Pellets are made with a lactose base and should be consumed by people who know they are lactose intolerant.
According to Urology Channel, cantharis and sarsasparilla are homeopathic remedies for burning during and after urination. The homeopathic remedy staphysagria is taken when the urinary tract or bladder infection is thought to be a result of sexual contact. Apis mellifica is used to treat infections that sting and are made worse by exposure to heat.
Prevention
Naturally sweetened cranberry and blueberry juices can prevent recurrent bladder and urinary tract infections. These two juices have antibiotic properties that keep bacteria from attaching to the walls of the bladder and other areas of the urinary tract, according to the Urology Channel.
Long lasting benefits can be obtained from consuming at least 16 ounces of cranberry juice each day. Cranberry capsules and liquigels can be taken in place of drinking the juice.
