How to Reduce Bladder Inflammation

Bladder inflammation, medically termed cystitis, can be a painful, uncomfortable condition. It can result from urinary tract infections (UTIs), certain medications, irritants like feminine hygiene products and radiation, among other things. Symptoms include burning and difficult urination, pain and fever. You can do several things to ease bladder inflammation, including medications and self-care measures.

Instructions

• 1

  Consult with your physician. Take all medications as directed. Depending on the cause of your bladder inflammation, they may include antibiotics to treat infection and medications to manage pain, among other things. Do not stop or alter your treatments without talking to your doctor first. If you are using antibiotics, you must finish your whole course of treatment even if you start feeling better.

• 2

  Drink lots of fluids; water is the best choice. Do not drink alcohol, coffee or other drinks containing caffeine or citrus juices. They will irritate the bladder, which will increase inflammation.

• 3

  Do not use deodorant sprays or other products in the genital area; they can irritate and inflame the bladder.

• 4

  Eat an anti-inflammatory diet. Increase your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables; they are rich in antioxidants that fight inflammation. Decrease your intake of inflammation-causing foods like saturated fats found in animal products, sugar, and foods made from white flour.

• 5

  Use natural supplements that ease inflammation. Talk to your doctor before using any natural treatments. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking one or two capsules of fish oil daily. This supplement might not be appropriate if you take blood-thinning medications. Check with your doctor.

• 6

  Reduce inflammation, pain and pressure by using a heating pad.