Looking after your health is of the utmost importance, especially when it comes to conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs). UTIs can range from mild and often ignoring symptoms to more serious and life-threatening issues. This article will provide an insight into recognizing and managing urinary tract infections, so you can stay on top of your health and be proactive with preventative measures.
1. A Closer Look at Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common condition, with millions of cases reported annually. Compromised urinary tract hygiene can lead to bacteria buildup, causing infection in the urethra, kidneys, ureters, and bladder. These life-altering bacterial infections can cause serious health risks if ignored. Here is a closer look at UTIs and how you can stay protected against them.
- Symptoms – Symptoms of UTIs can vary among individuals, but they typically include pain or burning sensations during urination, strong smelling urine, a feeling of urgency to urinate, pelvic pain, and cloudy urine.
- Risks – Without proper treatment, UTIs can lead to potential kidney infection, bladder stones, scarring in the kidney, and more. If left untreated, infection can spread to the bloodstream, which can be life-threatening.
- Prevention – As the old saying goes, prevention is better than cure. To avoid UTIs, ensure you maintain a healthy urinary tract and practice proper hygiene such as avoiding douching, drinking plenty of fluids, and regularly cleaning the genital area with mild soap and warm water.
With the right precautions, you can help to reduce your risk of developing UTIs. Be sure to always practice good urinary habits, take extra care when choosing antibiotics, and keep an eye out for any unusual changes or symptoms.
Finally, it is important to note that it is best to seek out a doctor or medical professional to discuss any concerns or questions you may have about UTIs. They will be able to provide the necessary tests and treatments, so you can quickly get back to feeling your best.
2. Determining if You Have a UTI
Unfortunately, there’s no foolproof way of determining if you have a urinary tract infection on your own. While symptoms such as pain when urinating, cloudy urine, and increased urgency to urinate can be indicative of a UTI, they can also be symptoms of other conditions. It may be worth consulting a doctor if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms.
In order to accurately diagnose a UTI, the following procedures may be performed:
- A physical examination – Your doctor will usually ask questions about your symptoms and medical history. They may also check your abdomen and/or examine your genital area.
- Urine sample analysis – A urine sample will be taken and sent to a laboratory to be examined for bacteria and signs of an infection.
- Imaging tests – Imaging tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan, X-ray, or MRI may be ordered if other tests are inconclusive.
Your doctor may also recommend a urine culture test to identify bacteria and decide which antibiotic will be most effective in treating it. This test takes longer than a urine sample analysis, but it may be necessary for a more reliable diagnosis.
Although self-diagnosing a UTI isn’t recommended due to the difficulty and associated risks, it may be possible if you’re experienced in managing UTIs, and if you have access to the necessary tests.
3. Treatment Options for UTIs
Left untreated, Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) can quickly turn serious, so it’s best to take preventive steps against infections and get prompt, effective treatment if an infection does develop. Luckily, there are a few options to treat UTIs.
Antibiotics are usually prescribed to fight the infection. Based on the type and severity, the antibiotics can be taken orally or through a shot. Taking antibiotics helps treat the infection as well as any of the symptoms associated with it. For a severe UTI, a doctor may recommend hospitalization and further testing.
- Amoxicillin (Moxatag)
- Cephalexin (Keflex)
- Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim (Bactrim DS)
In addition to antibiotics, there are other measures you can take to help treat and manage UTIs. Home Remedies include drinking lots of fluids, urinating frequently, limiting beverage and food intake which can irritate the bladder, taking over-the-counter medication to relieve pain, and drinking cranberry juice to help prevent bacteria in the bladder.
Finally, there are Alternative Therapy options such as acupuncture and herbal supplements. These therapies are typically used alongside other treatments such as antibiotics. If you are considering alternative therapy, it is best to consult with your doctor first as some herbal supplements may interfere with medications.
4. Combatting the Infection: Home Remedies
If you or a loved one has contracted the infection, don’t despair. You may be able to effectively manage the virus and its unpleasant side effects from the comfort of home thanks to some natural remedies.
One of the most important aspects of combating the virus is to rest – both mentally and physically. To aid in this, there are a few home remedies that have proven to be effective in reducing the intensity and duration of the virus.
Drink plenty of fluids. Drinking sugary and carbonated beverages can worsen the virus. Instead drink water, electrolyte-rich energy drinks, freshly-squeezed juice, and hot herbal tea. This will help flush out the virus and its accompanying toxins.
Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Painkillers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help to reduce the fever and uncomfortable aches and pains that come with the virus.
Make a vapo-rub. Create a vapo-rub that can be applied to the chest whenever coughing or difficulty breathing occur. Make sure to include the following essential oils: Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Thyme, and Lavender. Rub the vapo-rub onto the chest and along the throat during chest tightness to help reduce congestion.
5. Protecting Yourself from Reoccurring UTIs
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be uncomfortable and disruptive, especially when they keep happening again and again. While these types of infections can be caused by a variety of factors, here are some proactive steps you can take to help protect yourself from a reoccurring UTI:
- Drink lots of fluids. Keeping properly hydrated is a great way to help flush out your urinary tract. Make sure to avoid drinking too much caffeine, as it can make you dehydrated and may irritate your bladder.
- Practice proper hygiene. Before and after sex, it’s important to take the time to properly wipe and cleanse your genital area. This helps to reduce the chances of any bacteria making it’s way into your body.
- Opt for breathable clothing. When possible, try to avoid wearing tight, constricting clothing. Wear loose-fitting, breathable garments, such as lightweight cotton, which allows airflow and reduces trapped moisture that can lead to bacteria build up.
- Don’t hold it. Try your best not to wait too long in between bathroom breaks. When your bladder is full, it increases your risk of an infection. Plus, when you urinate, it helps flush out bacteria before it can cause a UTI.
If you have had multiple cases of reoccurring UTIs, it may be time to speak to your healthcare provider. They can help diagnose any underlying health issues or suggest suitable medications that can help reduce how often you suffer from UTIs.
If you think you may have a UTI, it’s very important to get it treated quickly to reduce any further complications or risk of reinfection. With the right treatment, a UTI can be successfully managed and kept under control. Remember, knowledge is power, so spread the word and empower yourself and those around you to play an active role in fighting urinary tract infections.