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Home Remedies to Cure a UTI

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a fairly common infection of the kidneys, bladder, urethra or ureters. In most cases, bacteria is the cause. Normally, urine is kept sterile and bacteria is flushed from the body. Sometimes, though, the bacteria multiply and cause an infection. UTIs account for about 8.3 million visits to the doctor each year, according to the National Institutes of Health. In most cases, antibiotics are needed to kill the bacteria, but there are also some treatments you can try at home to alleviate symptoms.

  1. Cranberry Juice

    • Cranberry juice is a well-known home treatment for urinary tract infections. It works because it prevents the infection-causing bacteria from adhering to cells in the urinary tract, which flushes them from the body more quickly. However, in some cases, the cranberry juice can have a negative effect, because of the acid content in the juice. It's a good idea to dilute cranberry juice with water to prevent any irritation or worsening of symptoms. If your symptoms get worse after drinking cranberry juice, stop using it.

    Baking Soda

    • Consuming baking soda will change the pH of your urine, making it less acidic, which can help when you have a urinary tract infection. Some doctors will recommend patients add a 1/2 tsp. of baking soda to a full glass of water and drink it at the first sign of a urinary tract infection. When the urine is less acidic, it is less irritating to the urinary tract. Also drink plenty of water when you have a urinary tract infection. Staying hydrated can help flush the bacteria out of the system, alleviating symptoms and clearing the infection.

    Pain Relief

    • A urinary tract infection can be very uncomfortable because it often causes back and abdominal pain. Pain relief is frequently an important part of the treatment process. In most cases, common over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs will help make you more comfortable. Another option is using a heating pad on the area where you feel pain and pressure. This can be especially helpful when you are trying to sleep or rest.

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