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UTI Relief

A UTI, or urinary tract infection, is an infection of any part of the urinary system, which includes the bladder, kidneys, urethra and ureters. UTIs are the second most common type of infection, according to the National Institutes of Health. Women are much more likely than men to have a UTI. Common symptoms of a urinary tract infection are pain or burning while urinating, blood in the urine, a frequent or strong urge to urinate and urinating small amounts frequently. A course of antibiotics is typically prescribed for people with a UTI.

  1. Pain Relievers

    • Common over-the-counter pain relievers can provide some relief from the pain and discomfort caused by a UTI. Try acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin or their brand-name equivalents to ease the pain caused by an infection. Keep in mind, however, that aspirin should never be given to children with a fever because of the possibility of developing a life-threatening condition called Reye's syndrome. If you try over-the-counter pain relievers and do not experience any relief, you can speak with your doctor about a prescription-strength pain reliever.

    Heat

    • Applying heat to the abdomen or area where you are experiencing pain and pressure can help make you more comfortable when you have a urinary tract infection. Try using a heating pad to ease the discomfort. Lying on a heating pad can be especially helpful for many people with a UTI.

    Water

    • It's important to drink plenty of water when you have a urinary tract infection because it will help flush out the bacteria that caused the infection. People with UTIs should also avoid beverages and liquids that can irritate the urinary system, including coffee, alcohol, carbonated soft drinks and other caffeinated beverages, until the infection clears.

    Prevention

    • If you are prone to urinary tract infections, there are some simple steps you can take to help prevent them from developing. For example, try to take showers instead of baths and avoid hygiene sprays and douches, as they can irritate the urethra. It's also important always to wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from entering the vagina and urethra. Finally, if you find that your UTIs tend to correlate to sexual activity, be sure to urinate as soon as possible after having sex to prevent an infection from developing.

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