URINARY TRACT INFECTION (UTI)
What is Urinary Tract Infection?
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is an encroachment by the bacteria of the urinary tract which includes kidney, ureters, bladder or urethra. This bacterium enters the opening of the urethra and procreates in the urinary tract causing urinary tract infection. This can be very painful and a major cause of distress in your life. If it is not contained in the earlier stages it is likely to spread to your kidneys, which can become a serious health issue. The infection of the bladder can develop into cystitis- a very common problem faced by women. Urinary Tract Infection can infect anyone but women are more susceptible to this disease. Children too suffer from this disorder but the headcount is very low in comparison to adults.
Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection
Need to go – all time
A very common symptom which UTI patients face through this condition- is the constant urge to urinate.
Burning sensation and traces of blood
Urination is painful as well as leaves a burning sensation. Sometimes the sign is so relevant in the form of blood which is seen in your urine.
Fever, vomiting along with other pains
You may suffer from fever if you have infection in you kidneys. Bouts of vomiting and nausea are also possible if you are affected by the kidney infection. Backache and pain below your ribs are some of the other symptoms.
Causes of Urinary Tract Infection
Bacteria in the urethra
It is mainly caused when the bacteria from the digestive tract holds on to the opening of the urethra, this poses a problem.
Through sexual intercourse
Sexual intercourse is another reason for urinary tract infection. During a sexual intercourse the bacteria present in the vaginal tract is pushed inside the urethra by the movement of the penis.
Having different sexual partner
Having different sexual partners can be another reason for urinary tract infection. Waiting too long to urinate may cause this infection.
Holding back the urge to urinate
Prolonging urination causes stretches the bladder. This stretching weakens the bladder - disallowing it to completely empty itself. The urine which remains in the bladder increases your chances of the infection.
What are the risk factors?
Some people are more prone to getting a UTI than others.
Studies have also shown that women who use diaphragms for birth control may be at higher risk.
People with diabetes have a higher risk of infection because of changes in the immune system secondary to the high sugar concentrations.
Any abnormality of the urinary tract that obstructs the flow of urine (a kidney stone) increases the risk for an infection.
UTIs may occur in infants who are born with abnormalities of the urinary tract, which sometimes need to be corrected with surgery.
Diagnosis |
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In some patients Ultrasound examination of the kidney maybe necessary to rule out any infection of the kidney. |
Home remedies for Urinary Tract Infection
Treating Urinary Tract Function by use of Baking Soda
A mixture of 1/2 tsp baking soda in eight ounce glass of water can be very helpful on the first signs of urinary tract infection. The presence of baking soda in your system raises the acid-base balance of the acidic urine.
Treating Urinary Tract Infection by drinking water or fluids
It is very important for your system to have a good flow of urine. This can be done by consuming plenty of water. It cleanses your body by diluting and flushing out the unwanted substance.
Treating Urinary Tract Infection by Cranberry Juice (Karonda is hindi)
Cranberry juice disallows bacteria to cling to the cell, which line the urinary tract. It is a great remedy to fight this infection. If you cannot have the cranberry juice directly you can mix it with apple juice to add some taste.
Treating Urinary Tract Infection by Aromatherapy
You can make an essential oil by using equal parts of sandalwood, bergamot, tea tree, frankincense and juniper. Mix all these ingredients to make an oil to be rubbed over your bladder area. Continue this massaging technique for three to four days once the symptoms subside.
Treating Urinary Tract Infection by Echinacea
You can consume at least two capsules three times a day of Echinacea and Oregon grape root or goldenseal to fight the infection.
Treating Urinary Tract Infection by Tincture
In acute cases try having 1/2 tsp of tincture every hour. Severe infection needs severe measures. Blend equal parts of pipsissewa, buchu, echinacea, and uva ursi tinctures. Have 20 drops of this blended mixture every two hours for first two days and later 1 tsp four times a day, till you have completely recovered. Have a soothing tea such as marshmallow root to counter the strong antiseptic effect of urva ursi.
Urinary Tract Infection Diet
Increase the intake of vitamins C
Vitamin C prevents the bacterial growth due to the acidic environment created in the bladder and the urinary tract. It is very important to have a healthy diet which is rich in minerals and other supplements for your daily quota. You can maintain the alkaline content in urine by a rich diet of milk, fruits, and fresh vegetables.
Fresh berry juice
Women consuming fresh berry juice as part of the daily diet, turns out to be very useful in the long run.
Avoid irritant foods
A diet which consists of processed food like cheese, chocolate, dairy products should be avoided. You should also avoid spicy food, caffeine, alcohol and cigarettes which otherwise is also harmful. Avoid carbonated drinks like beer, soda or any other drink with fizz.
Stay away from artificial sweetener
Aspartame is one of a kind of artificial sweetener. You will find many artificial sweeteners in the market which should be avoided. It is mainly consumed by diabetic patients and is used in many beverages and other foods.
Other suggestions for Urinary Tract Infection
Hot compression
You can place a heating pad on the lower abdominal area to provide some relief to your pain.
Reflexology
Working on the bladder or kidney points can provide you some relief from this infection.
Dressing comfortably
Wearing loose-fitting and cotton clothes helps a great deal. Wearing tight undergarments and tight fitting clothes creates more room for infection.
When to See the Doctor
Should you visit the doctor if you have a urinary tract infection? There are four major symptoms to watch out for.
- Blood in the urine
- Pain in the lower back or flank
- Fever
- Nausea or vomiting
Usually an antibiotic prescribed by the doctor can clear up the infection and put an end to the symptoms. But urologists warn that a very small number may develop more serious problems with the kidneys. So you should see a physician or urologist immediately if you have any of these symptoms.
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