Urinary tract infection, commonly known as UTI, is more common in women than in men. Usually, it is spread by bacteria E. Coli. One may feel burning sensation while passing the urine, or before passing or even after urinating.
Home remedies can prevent UTI, or stop it in the initial stages. If it aggravates, then anti-biotic medicines become the only option. But even then, it is important to use the home remedies as well.
List of Home Remedies for Urinary Tract Infection
Water Intake
At the first signs of some urinary problem, take at least 8 glasses of water per day. Mayo clinic’s suggestion is 6 to 8 glasses per day. Doctors recommend increased intake of water. There is a requirement of diluting the urine and flushing the kidneys.It is a good practice to take your water bottle along, if you are going out. You are mistaken if you think that by increasing water intake we mean that you can drink sodas, colas, alcoholic drinks, tea and coffee. They will irritate the urinary tract, and will impede the process of getting the infection cleared up fast.
The doctors are likely to restrict your water intake, if you fall in the category of heart disease patients. Do not go overboard in drinking water, the drop in sodium levels due to excessive urination can even result in death.
Drink Juices
The juice of cranberry is very good for urinary tract infection. You can consider drinking orange and lemon juice. They have vitamin C in them and they will keep you hydrated as well.
Urinate Frequently
It is recommended that every three hours one should go and pass the urine, so that the bacteria in the urinary system keep getting out of the body frequently.
Women Care
Use sanitary napkins instead of tampons and pass urine before and after you have had an intercourse. Wash and clean the anal area thoroughly after the bowel movement.
Vitamin C
Take more vitamin C, it will make the urine acidic and stop the bacteria from multiplying. You can check with your doctor, how much of vitamin C supplement will be alright for you. Usually 1000 mg per day should be the right dose.
Use Heating Pad
If your UTI is painful because of cramps of the abdomen, consider hot fomentation as one remedy to reduce the pain. You can either use a hot water bottle or an electric heating pad. Keep it on your back or stomach to reduce the symptoms of pain.Know well that it is not a cure of UTI and it will not rid you of the bacteria but it is there to manage the ailment, till the infection gets cured.
Clothing
Those who are afflicted with UTI should wear loose lower garments. The pants or under wears should not be tight fitting, otherwise the pressure exerted on the bladder can trigger pain and abdominal cramps.
Avoid
Tomatoes, citrus, chocolate and aged cheese, they are known to increase urinary tract sensitivity. It is advisable to avoid eating spicy foods, they tend to aggravate the irritation. You should avoid douching.
