Urinary Tract infection that can affect one or more parts of the urinary system: kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. It usually manifests as pain or a burning sensation during urination (= the emission of urine), sometimes abdominal pain, and fever.
The main functions of various parts of the urinary system
- The kidneys of blood filtration: They allow the elimination of waste and play an important role in the regulation of body fluids and blood pressure.
- The ureters are small channels that allow the passage of urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
- The bladder acts as a urine tank.
- The urethra conducts urine from the bladder to the outside of the body.
Types of urinary tract infections
There are three types of urinary tract infections, according to the location of the infection.
1. Infectious cystitis
By far the most common form of urinary tract infection, cystitis affects women almost exclusively. This is an inflammation of the bladder. Most often, the inflammation caused by the overgrowth of intestinal bacteria types Escherichia coli, which are numerous around the anus.
The bacteria pass from the anal and vulvar region of the bladder traced through the urethra. Anything that interferes bladder emptying, increases the risk of cystitis because it increases retention of urine, therefore the time of growth of bacteria. Cystitis is always accompanied by urethritis, inflammation of the urethra.
2. Infectious urethritis
If the infection affects only the urethra (the tube that connects the bladder to the urinary meatus), it is called urethritis. It is often sexually transmitted infections (STIs) common in men. And women can also suffer. Different pathogens can cause urethritis. The most common are chlamydia and gonorrhea (the bacterium that causes gonorrhea). In men, urethritis may be associated with prostatitis (prostate infection).
Note: There are non-infectious causes of cystitis or urethritis, such as radiation therapy of the pelvis area. In this case, there is also an inflammation, but it is not due to bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
3. Pyelonephritis
Pyelonephritis is a more serious condition. It refers to the inflammation of the pelvis (the cavity of the kidney collecting urine) and the kidney itself. This is usually caused by a bacterial infection. It can be a complication of untreated or poorly treated cystitis resulting in the movement of bacteria from the bladder to the kidneys, and their proliferation at this level. Acute pyelonephritis occurs more often in women and is more common in pregnant women. It is also common in children with a malformation of the ureter causes a backflow of urine from the bladder to the kidneys.
Symptoms of a UTI
- Frequent and urgent urination
- Making a very small volume of urine, despite the urgent need
- Burning with urination
- Urinary disorders, particularly smelly or dark
- Cramps or suprapubic pain
Consult a doctor immediately if:
- Burns, pain, or other symptoms persist for 24 to 36 hours of self-medication.
- The burns are accompanied by vaginal discharge or a discharge from the penis.
- The symptoms are accompanied by pain in the back, chills, or fever.
- You notice blood in your urine.
- Beware, if you are taking medication, consult your doctor before taking supplements
Urinary tract infections can be very painful. Natural supplements will help treat the symptoms and relieve you.
Fighting against urinary tract infections
Painful urinary tract infections are quite common in women, they can have serious consequences. Current scientific studies confirming the efficacy of traditional medicines against this type of infection, it may be beneficial to use. Discover vitamins and herbs that can help relieve the discomfort caused by this type of infection.
The benefits of nutritional supplements against UTIs
When you have a urinary tract infection, start with Vitamin C and cranberry. Take the recommended supplements at the first signs of burning with urination. Vitamin C acidified urine, making the bladder a more difficult environment to colonize by bacteria; this vitamin also strengthens the immune defenses of the body.
Cranberries also have an acidifying effect on urine, but above all, it prevents bacteria from attaching to the walls of the urinary tract. These supplements may be associated with echinacea, which boosts the immune system. Drink plenty to help eliminate bacteria and toxins.
Medicinal plants to relieve infections
To treat urinary tract infections, herbalists sometimes recommend the use of several plants (alone or mixed). Presumably including buchu, wild carrot, the corn silks to the couch, elderberry flowers, and horsetail. These can be taken in the form of tinctures or infusions. When the urine is alkaline (as is the case among vegetarians), it is better to use another plant called bearberry.
Urinary tract infections can sometimes be complicated and lead to serious kidney infections. If the infection is confirmed, we will prescribe antibiotics that probably destroy the bacteria responsible for the infection. we will attack unfortunately also the beneficial bacteria that protect the urinary and digestive systems. In this case, take lactic acid bacteria, that will reintroduce the good bacteria in your body.
What else to relieve urinary tract infection?
- Drink at least one glass of water every hour to increase the volume of your urine and facilitate the evacuation of microbes in your urinary tract. Urinate when you feel the need.
- Regularly clean your genital and anal areas and dry them thoroughly. Make a local toilet before and after sex.
- Always wipe from front to back to avoid introducing bacteria from the anal area into the urinary tract.
- Wear cotton underwear, which allows the skin to breathe better and put dry clothes after swimming or exercise in general.
Other useful information on urinary tract infections
In a study among elderly women with high levels of bacteria in the urine, US researchers make an interesting discovery. They found that among those who drank daily 300 ml of cranberry juice, the risk of developing a urinary tract infection was significantly reduced over a period of 6 months. To prepare an infusion against a urinary tract infection, pour one cup of hot water on 2 tbsp. of makers buchu, corn silks, or wild carrot (or a mixture of these three plants). Let infuse for 15 minutes, then strain. Sweeten it with honey. Buchu and Echinacea can be used in infusions against urinary tract infections. They can also be cleansing lotions to prevent recurrence in women prone to infections. Prepare a cup of tea with one of these herbs or a mixture of both, then let cool. Wash the genital area with the cooling lotion.
It is also possible to purchase a test kit sold in pharmacies to detect a urinary tract infection. If symptoms persist beyond 24 hours, consult a physician.