While extreme symptoms require immediate medical attention with a round of treatment through antibiotics, mild symptoms can be dealt with quickly at home with remedies that are effective and efficient. We have compiled a list of all the recommended remedies that are proven to be safe and effective.
What are UTIs?
UTIs affect the urinary system which consists of kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra, whose main functions are to filter blood by removing excess water & waste products.Women are generally more susceptible to UTIs than men by up to 30% as a woman’s urethra- the tube from the bladder that connects to the exit of urine is shorter than men’s, making it easier for women to get infected with bacteria quicker. (1)
Symptoms of UTI
In healthy individuals, urine is sterile or may contain a few microorganisms that can lead to infection in the urethra, bladder or kidneys, it is a common infectious disease that affects up to 150 million people each year. (2)
Some symptoms to identify UTI are:
- Burning and itching while urinating
- Urge to constantly urinate
- Pressure in the lower abdomen
- Strong odour in urine that looks milky or cloudy
- Blood mixed in urine
- Fatigue, tiredness, shakiness and confusion.
- High fever (indicating infection in the kidney)
Home remedies for UTI
Consistent Hydration
It is medically recommended for patients with UTI to drink between 2-3 litres of water every day to flush out the bacteria, dehydration can decrease urination causing the bacteria to breed in the system without getting out.
If you feel like you cannot consume any more water for the hour you can alternate some of the consumption with fruits with high water content like watermelon, oranges and honeydew melons,
A mild case of UTI can subside within a day or two with adequate water consumption and frequent flushing of urine. However, avoid sugary beverages, alcohol and caffeine as it may further irritate the bladder. Sticking to pure H2O is the safest option.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C has antibacterial and antibiotic properties that can help prevent the growth of infectious bacteria in the urethra by making the urine more acidic.
A study was conducted on rats with urinary tract infections who were administered 1.25 ml of vitamin C. It was found that Vitamin C significantly improved the symptoms of UTI both alone & when combined with anti-antibiotics. (3)
A recommended dosage of 500-1000 mls of daily vitamin C supplements can help alleviate the symptoms, it can also be derived through vitamin C-rich foods such as oranges, grapes, lemons, grapefruit, strawberries and leafy greens.
Uva ursi (bearberry)
Uva ursi is a plant species that is most commonly referred to as kinnikinnick, rockberry, sandberry or bearberry. It has reddish brown branches with flowers that are pink and white with red berries that grow in summer.
Uva ursi has diuretic and antiseptic properties (4) which are potent for treating UTIs, however, it is not recommended for pregnant & lactating women, children and people with renal diseases.
It can be taken in the form of tea 3-4 times per day or capsule 3 times daily. Refer to your healthcare provider before administering any doses of substitute supplements.
Cranberry juice
While cranberry juice has been an age-old tactic for preventing UTI, there have been studies that found that cranberries help by preventing bacteria from attaching itself to the urinary tract lining (5)
A recommended dosage of 30-300 ml of undiluted & unsweetened cranberry juice or 500 mg of cranberry capsules can help with the symptoms.
D-mannose
D-mannose is a type of sugar that is related to glucose, a commonly used supplement that is used to treat UTI, but it also naturally occurs in your body. It can be found in plants in the form of starch.
A study was conducted by administering D-mannose to women with recurrent UTIs, and the results showed that D-mannose was as significantly effective as the antibiotic nitrofurantoin in preventing UTIs from recurring for over 6 months. (6)
Another study suggested that administration of D-mannose twice daily for 3 days and then once a day for 10 days, showed successful results in 43 women with active UTI as their symptoms were significantly improved. (7)
Probiotics
Probiotics are excellent not just for your gut health but also for your urinary tract as the “good bacteria†can help alleviate the symptoms of UTIs.
A study was conducted with 174 premenopausal women with a history of recurring UTIs who were randomised into four groups. The group that was administered prophylactic supplements with vaginal probiotics with a combination of oral probiotics showed significant improvement in preventing recurring UTIs. (8)
Raw Garlic
A traditional method for preventing and treating a multitude of infectious diseases, raw garlic can also be used for treating UTIs.
A study showed using an alternative therapeutic regimen consisting of parsley, garlic, and l-arginine probiotics significantly improved the symptoms of UTI and prevented a recurrence for more than a year. (9)
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is popular for its antibacterial properties and has been used as a remedy for a lot of health issues. It is also a natural antibiotic that can help prevent bladder infections.
While it cannot treat an active infection it can help in preventing the recurrence of a UTI by balancing the bladder's pH levels.
Conclusion
UTIs can be particularly difficult and painful as the symptoms cause general discomfort and fatigue.
They are extremely common and everyone is susceptible to them, hence taking precautions and following the recommended remedies to prevent them will help keep you & your urinary tract safe and healthy.
For serious symptoms, it is advised to immediately contact your physician to prevent the chances of it spreading it to your kidney.
FAQs
1.How long does it last?
Uncomplicated UTIs last for about 3 days to a week without treatment, and resolve within 1-3 days with treatment.
Complicated UTIs may last up to a week or 14 days with treatment or several weeks or months without treatment.
2.How to stop urine infection pain?
To help with the urine infection pain:
- Drink a lot of water
- Urinate when you need to
- Use hot/cold compresses
- Take O-T-C painkillers
- Get medical advice if persistent
3.Can it be clear on its own?
Uncomplicated UTIs may resolve on their own within 3 days or a week.
4. What are the stages of a UTI?
The different stages of UTIs are:
- Simple UTI
- Chronic UTI
- Complex UTI
- Complicated UTIÂ