Urinary tract infection is an uncomfortable ailment affecting millions of individuals every year. Women are more likely to suffer from UTIs and at least 50% of women have it once in their lifetime. While an infection in the urinary tract is treatable, recurrent infections can cause frustration and discomfort. If left untreated, the kidneys also might get infected. So, what is UTI and what are its causes and risk factors? What are the best urinary tract infection treatments at present? Let’s find out everything about UTIs so that you can take care of yourself.
UTI: An Overview
The urinary system of a person comprises two kidneys, bladder, urethra, and ureters. Most infections involve the lower urinary tract (that is the urethra and the bladder) are generally infected. But what causes urinary tract infections?
If microbes enter your body, a UTI can develop and cause infection. The most common microbe is bacteria and sometimes, fungi can also be held accountable. The E. coli bacteria is often the culprit.
UTI Symptoms
UTIs are accompanied by the following symptoms:
- An urge to urinate and it won’t go away
- Urine with a strong smell
- Pressure in the pelvic region
- Sharp pelvic pain in the area surrounding the pubic bone and the center of their pelvis
- A burning sensation when passing urine
- Cloudy urine
- Urinating now and then, and passing less urine
- Urine that’s red, or pink colored — indicating the presence of blood in urine
If you have some of these symptoms, UTI treatment antibiotics will be effective.
If the infection has spread to the kidneys, there may be additional symptoms like:
- Side or back pain
- Nausea
- High fever
- Vomiting
- Chills and shaking
Medicines Doctors Commonly Recommend for UTIs
For simple UTIs, the following medicines can be used:
- Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim (Bactrim DS, Bactrim)
- Ceftriaxone
- Fosfomycin
- Cephalexin
- Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid, Macrodantin, Furadantin)
There is another group of antibiotics used in urinary tract infection treatments and they are called fluoroquinolones. Fluoroquinolones are not recommended initially as these are strong drugs and the risks outweigh the advantages if the infection is uncomplicated. Two examples include levofloxacin ciprofloxacin (Cipro).
Can Home Remedies Treat Urinary Tract Infections?
Many people do UTI treatment at home and mild UTI usually gets cured within a day or two. So, besides your course of antibiotics, you can also do some of these things:
1. Consume enough water
For mild UTI, the more water you drink, the quicker the bladder infection will disappear. That’s because water dilutes our urine. So, the harmful bacteria will get flushed out of the system. Therefore, increase the intake of water although it will make you urinate frequently.
2. Rely on warm compress
For UTI pain relief, many patients find a heating pad extremely effective. Just place it on your belly to reduce discomfort Also, make sure that the heating pad is comfortingly warm and not hot.
3. Wear breathable underwear
Wearing cotton underwear instead of tight-fitting panties can lessen the risk of developing infection in the bladder or urethra. Wondering how? That’s because cotton panties let the moisture evaporate. On the other hand, fabrics like polyester create an ideal environment for bacterial growth.
Parting Thoughts
We may conclude by saying that immediate preventative measures are necessary if you think you have urinary tract infection. And now that you have this comprehensive guide, you already know how to deal with UTIs. So, visit a doctor at the earliest and keep sipping water at regular intervals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the most effective home remedies for urinary tract infections?
A: Some natural UTI remedies are avoiding alcohol and coffee, drinking sufficient water, and applying a warm pad to the belly. If you want to take any over-the-counter UTI medications, it is better to consult a doctor.
Q. How can I prevent recurring urinary tract infections?
A: To prevent UTIs, you shouldn’t be dehydrated. After urinating, always start with wiping the front and then the back. You can also take cranberry supplements for UTI occasionally.
