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Quick Relief From Urinary Tract Infections

Signs of a urinary tract infection, or UTI, include a burning sensation while urinating, persistent urination, pelvic pressure or pain, and cloudy urine. UTI develops as a result of bacteria entering the urinary tract. Anyone can get it. If left untreated, urinary tract infections can spread to the kidney and cause further complications. Fortunately, there are ways to quickly relieve these infections.

  1. Get Rid of the Infection With Meds

    • With any type of infection, doctors generally prescribe medication to fight the infection. In this case, antibiotics such as amoxicillin and cipro are used to relieve symptoms and get rid of the infection. In mild to moderate cases, antibiotics can relieve symptoms in one to two doses. However, doctors recommend taking antibiotics for at least seven days to ward off a recurrent infection.

      Along with antibiotics, your doctor may also recommend a pain reliever. Symptoms of UTI vary. In some instances, sufferers deal with back or lower pelvic pain. Taking an over-the-counter drug such as ibuprofen or aspirin can usually stop inflammation and relieve this type of pain.

    Drink Fluids

    • Increasing your intake of water and other liquids can help your body fight the infection. Liquids stimulate the kidneys. This promotes urination, flushing bacteria and germs from your body.

      Take your antibiotic as instructed by your doctor. But in addition, increase your water consumption and drink between eight and ten glasses a day to speed your recovery.

      You can also incorporate cranberry juice into your diet. This beverage promotes urinary health and acidifies your urine, which makes it difficult for bacteria to grow. Regularly drinking cranberry juice or taking cranberry supplements can prevent future infections.

    Other Home Remedies

    • There are various home remedies to speed your recovery. According to the Doctor's Book of Home Remedies, vitamin C is an effective remedy for urinary tract infections, and increasing your intake to 1,000 mg a day is recommended.

      Sitting in a warm or hot bath or placing a heating pad on your lower abdomen or back can relieve pressure and pain.

      It's wise to avoid intercourse, bubble baths, feminine hygiene sprays, douches and tight clothing until the infection subsides. These can slow your recovery and aggravate symptoms.

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