A common health problem, urinary tract infections resulted in $3.5 billion in U.S. healthcare costs just in the year 2000, according to data from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Although urinary tract infections typically require antibiotics as the main treatment, you may be able to use baking soda to help lessen the intensity of the painful symptoms of this common infection.
Background
Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria -- typically from the rectal area -- attack part of your urinary tract, which includes the urethra, bladder, ureters and kidney. Urinary tract infections occur frequently in women, especially those who are sexually active, as well as individuals who have urinary tract abnormalities or diabetes or need to use a catheter on a regular basis. Signs of a urinary tract infection vary depending upon the severity of the infection and may include bloody, hazy or unpleasant-smelling urine, an increased urge to void, abdominal pain and burning during voiding.
Features
Although it can't rid your body of the bacteria causing the infection, baking soda may aid in minimizing the severity of a common UTI symptom. Drinking a blend of 1 tsp. of baking soda and 1 cup of water helps ease the burning sensation that frequently occurs with a UTI, says Dr. Laurie Steelsmith, licensed naturopathic physician and co-author of "Natural Choices for Women's Health." In certain UTI sufferers, baking soda -- an alkaline compound -- may help lower the urine's acidity, which decreases the burning pain that arises when the urine comes in contact with your irritated urinary tract tissue.
Considerations
Check with your doctor before using baking soda to ease the severity of urinary tract infection symptoms, especially if you take prescription medications, have a history of high blood pressure or must follow a limited-sodium diet. If your doctor approves the use of this home remedy, be sure to dissolve the baking soda completely in the water before drinking the mixed liquid. Prevent future urinary tract infections by keeping your body hydrated, urinating after intercourse, wearing cotton-lined underwear and wiping from front to back after urinating.
Warnings
As soon as you notice signs of a UTI, contact your doctor immediately for diagnosis and treatment, which typically entails a seven- to 10-day round of antibiotics. Never attempt to use baking soda as a stand-alone treatment for urinary tract infections, as doing so could result in spreading the infection to your kidneys or bloodstream. Signs that a urinary tract infection may have invaded your kidneys include nausea, vomiting, fever and back pain.
References
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Kidney and Urologic Diseases Statistics for the United States
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Urinary Traction Infection in Adults
- "Natural Choices for Women's Health"; Dr. Laurie Steelsmith, et al.; 2005
- "Treatment of the Postmenopausal Woman"; Dr. Rogerio Lobo; 2007
