Urine Infection Home Remedies

Urine is the liquid waste product from your digestion process. It travels from your kidneys to the bladder, after which it exits the body when you urinate. 

Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are a catch-all phrase that refers to both infections of the lower urinary tract, which may also include the bladder, as well as infections of the upper urinary system, which may include the kidneys. The term UTI is most commonly used interchangeably with those infections involving the lower urinary tract, which generally present as causing moderate to mild discomfort or pain. 

UTIs are a frustrating and common problem, especially if they keep recurring. While medications can effectively cure UTIs, many individuals also find relief from their UTI symptoms with natural solutions. Let’s examine a few of the most popular all-natural remedies for UTIs. 

 What is an Urinary Tract Infection?

UTIs (urinary tract infections) are very common. UTIs happen when bacteria, typically from the rectum or skin, enter the urethra. Any section of the urinary tract can get infected, but bladder infections are the most frequent.

Although UTIs can affect anybody, those who are born as females are more likely to have them. That is because the female urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the bladder, is shorter than the male urethra. 

Bacteria might enter the bladder more easily due to the shorter distance (in women). Another factor is the urethra’s closeness to the rectum and vagina, both of which are bacterial breeding grounds. Additional UTI risk factors include:

• Certain medical conditions (like diabetes)
• Having a catheter in place
• Urinary tract structural issues, such as an enlarged prostate  
• Changes to vaginal bacteria, which menopause and spermicides can cause
• Pregnancy
• Age, with older adults and children more prone to UTIs
• Poor hygiene
• Sexual activity
• History of UTIs

Bacteria cause almost 95% of UTIs, but fungi can also cause infection.

Though antibiotics usually treat UTIs, there are various natural ways to reduce the risk of recurrence and help manage infections. 

What Natural Treatments Are Available for Urinary Tract Infection?

For mild UTIs, home remedies might help alleviate symptoms, and/or prevent infections from developing. The following are some of the most popular DIY treatments for UTIs:

Cranberry Juice

Cranberry juice may help against urinary tract infections. It has a long history of usage in the management of UTIs. The use of cranberry juice in UTIs is due to its potential antibacterial properties. 

Cranberry juice has many bioactive compounds (organic acids, anthocyanins, flavonoids etc.) which may result in the excretion of hippuric acid. Hippuric acid, a strong antibacterial agent, may therefore contribute to reducing the number of germs responsible for UTIs. 

Cinnamon  

It is known that cinnamon may have an action against the bacteria causing UTIs in long-term catheter users. This activity may be due to its potential effect of preventing the bacteria from coating the urinary tract. Therefore, cinnamon may be an effective natural remedy for UTIs. 

Probiotics 

Probiotics are gut-friendly bacteria that may be helpful against UTIs as well.  They mostly include Lactobacillus bacteria, which cling to the walls of the urinary system and appear to function as a barrier against the bacteria that cause UTIs. 

Coconut Water  

Coconut water has multiple benefits in many different forms. Drinking coconut water regularly may be helpful for those suffering from UTIs and enhance urinary health in general. It facilitates urine formation and urination and may help in flushing the kidneys too. 

Drinking Fluids

Your doctor may recommend that you increase the intake of fluids, especially water. This habit may be helpful in urinary tract infections as it might help fight against bacterial infection. Therefore, you should be drinking the daily recommendation of 6 to 8 glasses of water. 

Vitamin C

According to some research, boosting your vitamin C consumption may help prevent UTIs. According to theory, vitamin C works by making urine more acidic, which kills the infection-causing bacteria. 

Fruits and vegetables are a good way to increase your intake of vitamin C and are especially high in it. Kiwifruit, oranges and red peppers all contain the full recommended daily amount of vitamin C in just one serving. 

Practise Healthy Hygiene Habits

Preventing UTIs starts with practising a few good hygiene and bathroom habits. 

First, it’s important not to hold your urine for too long as it can lead to a buildup of bacteria, resulting in infection. By limiting the transmission of germs, urinating after intercourse has long been associated with a decreased incidence of UTIs. 

Those who are prone to UTIs should also refrain from using spermicide because it has been associated with an increase in UTIs. 

Finally, when using the toilet, especially if you have a female urethra, make sure you wipe front to back. Wiping from back to front increases the risk of UTIs by allowing germs to enter the urinary system.

Some other tips for managing UTIs are:

• According to your doctor’s instructions, take all of your antibiotics
• Ask your doctor about OTC or prescription pain medication
• Apply a hot water bottle or a heating pad to minimise bladder discomfort
• Do not hold your pee for too long
• Limit or avoid drinks and foods that can irritate the bladder, like citrus, soft drinks and coffee
• Stay well hydrated

You Can Also Read: Urinary Tract Infections – A common issue in the corporate crowd

When Should I Talk With a Doctor About My UTI?

If you have symptoms of a UTI, it is important to talk with a doctor. While natural remedies might help, a medical professional can diagnose a UTI and prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.

UTIs have a risk of severe complications, including spreading to your kidneys if they are left untreated. Signs of a severe infection should not be ignored. If you encounter any of the following, get in touch with a medical expert:

• Blood in your Urine

• Vomiting

• Nausea

• Chills

• Shaking

• A Fever over 103°F (39.4°C)

Conclusion

Urinary tract infections are quite common and can be irritating. You can use home remedies in most cases for relief, however, if they don’t work then medications might be required. It is always advisable to seek medical help from an experienced urologist. Timely care and help can ensure an appropriate diagnosis and treatment of your condition.

At the CK Birla Hospital, we ensure patients get holistic medical support which includes treatment in a compassionate environment. This patient-centric approach not only helps patients heal better but also ensures they are aware of the preventive measures as well. In case you need to consult a urologist, reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with Dr. Shalabh Agarwal at the CK Birla Hospital.

FAQs

Can Urine Infection be Cured at Home?

You can try home remedies such as taking probiotics, vitamin C supplements or drinking cranberry juice to reduce and prevent the recurrence of UTIs. You should also be aware that you might still have a UTI even if your symptoms go away, so it is advisable to speak with a doctor about the best UTI treatment for yourself. 

Which Drink is Good for Urine Infection?

Water is a fantastic drink which helps get rid of a urinary tract infection faster by flushing out the bacteria in your bladder. It also dilutes your urine so that urinating might be less painful.

What Not to Eat and Drink in Case of a Urine Infection?

Some foods and drinks which should be avoided in case of a urinary tract infection are fizzy drinks, coffee, alcohol, Inflammatory and spicy food, citrus fruits, refined carbohydrates and sugar.