Treatment for Urinary Tract Infection

The structure responsible for production, transportation, storage and excretion of urine form the urinary tract. Kidney, ureters, bladder and urethra are structures involved in urine formation and excretion process. Kidney filters nearly 3 ounces of blood, removes waste materials every minute. When these get infected with entry of any micro organism or any other pathological condition, then the person gets urinary tract infection (UTI).

Causes of Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary tract infections typically occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder. Although the urinary system is designed to keep out such microscopic invaders, these defenses sometimes fail. When that happens, bacteria may take hold and grow into a full-blown infection in the urinary tract.

Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infection

• A strong, persistent urge to urinate
• A burning sensation when urinating
• Passing frequent, small amounts of urine
• Urine that appears cloudy
• Urine that appears red, bright pink or cola-colored a sign of blood in the urine
• Strong-smelling urine
• Pelvic pain, in women especially in the center of the pelvis and around the area of the pubic bone

Some steps to reduce your risk of urinary tract infections:

• Drink plenty of liquids, especially water.
• Drink cranberry juice.
• Empty your bladder soon after intercourse.
• Avoid potentially irritating feminine products.
• Change your birth control method.

Lifestyle changes to reduce UTIs

While antibiotics are essential for treating UTIs, there are several lifestyle changes that can help reduce the likelihood of future Urinary Tract infections

Urinate Frequently: Do not hold urine for long periods. Empty your bladder frequently to flush out bacteria.

Wipe from Front to Back: After using the toilet, wipe from front to back to avoid transferring bacteria from the rectum to the urethra.

Avoid Irritants: Avoid using feminine hygiene sprays, douches, or scented soaps in the genital area, as these can irritate the urethra.

Wear Cotton Underwear: Breathable, cotton underwear helps keep the genital area dry and reduces the risk of bacterial growth.

Prevention of Future UTIs

Preventing recurring UTIs is key to managing the condition long-term. Here are several steps that may help reduce the risk:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Urinate After Intercourse: This can help flush bacteria out of the urethra.

Probiotics: Some studies suggest that probiotics, particularly those containing Lactobacillus, may help restore the natural bacteria in the vagina and urinary tract, reducing the risk of UTIs.

Antibiotics for Recurring UTIs: For women who experience frequent UTIs, doctors may prescribe a low-dose antibiotic to be taken daily or after intercourse.

Cranberry: Although evidence is mixed, some people find that regular cranberry juice or supplements can reduce the frequency of UTIs, especially for women with recurrent infections.