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Kidney & Bladder Infection Home Cures

Urinary tract infections--which include kidney and bladder infection--are painful conditions that cause abdominal or pelvic pain and back pain. Other symptoms of a bladder and kidney infection include painful urination and frequent urination. Infections normally develop when bacteria enters the urinary tract. Although these infections are common in women, they also affect men. And while antibiotics are a common treatment, home remedies are effective in the early stages.

  1. Drink Plenty of Fluids

    • Increasing your fluid intake is one of the best ways to cure a bladder or kidney infection at home. As mentioned, these infections begin when bacteria enters the urinary tract and travels to the kidneys and bladder. Drinking fluids--especially water---stimulates your kidneys and helps your body flush bacteria from the urinary tract. Cranberry juice is also effective because it increases the acidic level in your urine, which prevents bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day and avoid drinks that may irritate an infection such as citrus drinks, sodas and alcohol.

    Use Heat Therapy

    • Although painful urination and frequent urination are the most common symptoms of a kidney or bladder infection, pelvic or back pain can also develop. To treat pelvic pain and back pain, use a heating pad or take a warm bath. The warmth from both remedies can ease discomfort. Place the heating pad on your lower abdomen or back in 10 to 20 minute intervals as needed. In the case of severe pain, take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication as directed.

    Take Vitamin C

    • A weak immune system increases your risk of developing an infection. To lower this risk, and fight an existing infection, increase your intake of vitamin C. Visit your local health foods store or pharmacy and purchase vitamin C capsules. Take about 1,000 milligrams of vitamin C a day to acidify your urine. This remedy can stop the growth of bacteria in the urinary tract and speed your recovery. Because vitamin C supplements can interfere with the effectiveness of antibiotics, talk with your doctor or pharmacist before mixing the two.

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