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Help for Urinary Tract Infections

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a condition where bacteria enter the urethra, the bladder and sometimes, the kidneys. The bacteria originate outside the body, and women are more susceptible than men due to the length of the urethra. Symptoms include frequent and painful (or burning) urination, and a feeling of fullness or pain in the bladder. If the infection has spread to the kidneys, there also may be pain in the lower back and fever. There are several options for treatment and prevention of UTIs.

  1. Treatment--Consult a Physician

    • The best course of action is to consult a physician at the first signs of infection. If not treated properly, a bladder infection can spread to the kidneys and even into the blood. While there are several home remedies available, a course of antibiotics is often the fastest and most effective way to treat a UTI.

    Treatment--Drink Water

    • Water dilutes the urine and helps flush out bacteria. Avoid caffeinated beverages as they can irritate the bladder and increase the urge to urinate.

    Treatment and Prevention--Cranberry Juice

    • Cranberry juice is a clinically proven treatment and preventative measure for those who suffer recurring UTIs. Cranberry coats the lining of the bladder, making it slippery. The bacteria are unable to attach to the walls of the bladder and are flushed out of the body.

    Prevention--Avoid Delaying Urination

    • Delaying urination allows the urine to become more concentrated and bacteria to grow. Urinating when the urge presents flushes waste and bacteria from the body.

    Prevention--Urinate Immediately After Intercourse

    • Intercourse may introduce bacteria into the urethra. Urinating immediately afterward flushes any bacteria before it can take hold in the urinary tract.

    Prevention--Wipe Front to Back

    • Bacteria from the feces may find its way into the urethra. Wiping front to back pushes fecal bacteria away from the urethra, reducing the chance of infection.

    Prevention--Use Perfumes, Powders and Douches Sparingly

    • Many feminine hygiene products actually can irritate the genital area, including the urethra. They also may have chemicals that create an ideal breeding ground for bacteria which can then find its way into the urethra.

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