Natural UTI Cure

Urinary tract infection, or UTI, is an infection occurring anywhere along the urinary system. Natural treatment refers to alternative and complementary measures used in combination with, or in place of, traditional medicine. While people have reported relief and cure of mild UTIs using natural remedies alone, it is recommended that they be used as a complement to conventional treatment to prevent spread of the infection to the kidneys.

Function

Comprised of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra, the human urinary system's primary function is to filter the blood and excrete waste--urea--in the form of urine. It also maintains hormone and fluid-electrolyte balance within the body.

Symptoms

The chief complaint among sufferers of UTI is pain and burning upon urination. Although there is a feeling of frequent urgency, or the need to urinate often, the amount of urine produced tends to be very little. Urine may have an odor and appear cloudy and blood may be present. Other less frequent symptoms include a feeling of heaviness in the pelvic region, rectal pressure, nausea, back pain, weakness and generalized fatigue. The presence of fever is typically indicative that infection has spread to the kidneys.

Causes

UTIs are caused by bacteria, most commonly Escherichia coli (E. coli). Normally, the urinary tract contains very little bacteria, and tends to be sterile. However, bacteria can reach the urinary system in several ways, such as wiping incorrectly (back to front) after a bowel movement, via urinary catheters and diaphragms and through sexual intercourse. Those with diabetes or immunosuppressant conditions are at increased risk due to the inability of the body to fight off infection. Because of changes within the vaginal mucosa, post-menopausal women frequently develop UTIs.

Urinary tract infections are also caused by viruses, fungi (yeast) and parasites.

Diagnosis

Physicians diagnose UTI by urinalysis. Urinalysis is a test performed by obtaining a urine specimen. Sometimes, a clean-catch or catheterization is ordered. In a clean-catch, the individual begins by cleansing the genital area thoroughly using an antiseptic pad. To clear contaminants from the urethra, some urine is expelled into the toilet, catching the specimen in mid-stream. The rest is expelled in the toilet. With catheterization, the specimen is obtained via a catheter inserted directly into the bladder.

Urinalysis will allow the physician to determine the microorganism responsible for infection and whether blood cells are present. This will determine the course of treatment.

Treatment

While traditional treatment usually includes the use of antibiotics, some people would rather use alternative, or more natural treatment modalities. A licensed naturopathic doctor or homeopath has received specialized training and is an expert in prescribing more natural treatments. It is important to note that antibiotics are recommended for infections that have spread to the kidneys.

Typical homeopathic remedies for UTI include cantharis, sarspirilla and staphysagria. The dosage is generally 12-30 c, three to five pellets taken three or four times a day. Begin with the lowest dose, and increase gradually until relief from symptoms is achieved. Herbs such as goldenseal root, cleavers and uva ursi are used for their antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. Herbs may be prepared as a tincture or tea and sipped throughout the day. They are also available in capsule form.

Drinking unsweetened cranberry juice will assist in cleansing the urinary tract. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, it can also be used as a preventive measure against future infections. Warm sitz baths will work to soothe urethral pain and burning. Apply castor oil packs to the lower abdomen and cover with a heating pad or hot water bottle to relieve bladder pain and discomfort.

Prevention/Solution

Urinary tract infections are prevented by drinking plenty of water, typically two to four quarts daily, wearing cotton underwear, and keeping the genitals and anal area clean. It is important to avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing and drinking fluids that can irritate the bladder, such as coffee and alcohol. Do not douche or apply perfumes, powders or sprays to the genital area. Empty the bladder following sexual activity and always wipe front to back after using the bathroom.

Considerations

In the United States, the urinary tract is the most common site of infection acquired while receiving treatment in the hospital. Most occur following catheterization.