A urinary tract infection is characterized as an infection in any part of the urinary tract. They urinary tract is composed of the bladder, kidneys, though the most common types are in the bladder and urethra. Having a UTI can be severely painful and also embarrassing and uncomfortable. However, there are certain things that you can avoid that can help relieve some of the pain and symptoms.
Causes
Even though urinary tract infections are rather common, it is important to know why they occur. UTIs are usually caused with bacteria enter through the urethra and begin to multiply, eventually reaching the bladder. The main causes of this happening are bathing in hot, still, non-sanitized water, or sometimes by contact by your partner or spouse. Sometimes, women who suffer from a yeast infection can get a urinary tract infection as a result as well, so eating yogurt with live cultures during your yeast-infection treatment might help prevent an infection.
Symptoms
Although not life-threatening, UTIs are incredibly uncomfortable. Symptoms include a strong urge to urinate that doesn't seem to dissipate even after you have gone. Other symptoms are passing small amounts of urine that is cloudy and strong smelling and experiencing pelvic pain in women and rectal pain in men. Generally, there is nothing you can do to ameliorate the pain.
Things to Avoid
Usually, you physician will recommend that you take antibiotics such as amoxicillin or nitrofurantion to treat the infection. However, there are certain foods and beverages you can avoid that can help you relieve some of the symptoms. In general, avoid things that can irritate your bladder, including foods that are hot and spicy, or have lots of pepper. Drinks like coffee, tea and other sugary sodas not only irritate your bladder due to the caffeine; they exacerbate your urge to use the bathroom. Also avoid any juice or food that contains citric acids, like limes or lemons, as these will result in even more painful urination. As for processed, sugary beverages, it depends from person to person, but generally, drinking lots of water and natural fluids will not only help you wash out the bacteria, but also not worsen any pain or urge you may be experiencing.
