Cystitis: Symptoms, Treatment And Home Remedies For Urinary Tract Infection

The disease is caused by microbes, usually bacteria. These microorganisms enter the urinary tract through one of two possible entrances. The most common portal of entry is the lower end of the urinary tract, that is, the opening of the urethra at the tip of the penis in men, or the beginning of the urethra at the vulva in women, explains the MSD Manual.

Most bacteria are expelled in urine, but some adhere to the wall of the urethra or bladder and multiply rapidly until they remain in the bladder.

“The bladder, ureter, and kidney are the most affected by a urinary tract infection. Because women have a smaller urethra, we are more prone to this disease because it is closer to the anus and there are more bacteria there. Sexual relations could also be a contributing factor,” says gynecologist Silvia Ortega.

Menopause and pregnancy are also risk factors in women. In both sexes, diabetes, urinary retention, and age may also affect the risk. In men, an enlarged prostate.

Symptoms of Cystitis

The symptoms of cystitis, or a urinary tract infection, can be different for each person. According to Ortega, the most common complaints are pain or burning when urinating, a strong and unpleasant urine odor, and the presence of white spots or blood in the urine.

You may also experience pelvic pain, a feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen, and the need to urinate frequently but only in small amounts when you go to the bathroom. Because it is an infection, you may experience chills, fever, general malaise, and fatigue.

In some people, cystitis does not cause symptoms, so it is diagnosed when a urine test is done, says Alejandro Castillo, a gynecologist. Those with a poorly functioning bladder, as a result of a nerve injury or those with a catheter, may have a urinary tract infection without discomfort until a kidney infection or fever appears.

Treatment 

This disease is treated with antibiotics, although it will depend on the symptoms and the cause. “The patient is recommended to have a urine culture before receiving antibiotic treatment to find out which bacteria are growing and which medication is causing sensitivity to this microorganism and to combat it,” explains gynecologist Martínez.

The professional indicates that people should not self-medicate, since most of the time the only thing that is generated is resistance to the medication, which is why a stronger medication is then required.

Home remedies for urinary tract infection

In addition to treatment, there are natural remedies that help fight the microorganisms that cause urinary tract infections and relieve the symptoms.

María José Ovalle, a natural medicine therapist and holistic health coach, recommends increasing water consumption, avoiding processed and spicy foods, avoiding coffee, consuming fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, and avoiding sugar. She also lists some home remedies that will benefit the body during this disease.

• Coconut oil: Take a tablespoon of coconut oil in a glass of warm water in the morning for seven days. This helps reduce and improve discomfort, as it is antibacterial.
• Blueberry tea: consume one liter during the day, for seven days. The ratio is 100 grams of blueberries in one liter of water. Drink water during the day, without sugar.
• Parsley Tea: To prepare it, you need 5 sprigs per cup. Ideally, drink it twice a day for 7 days.
• Watermelon juice: drink it on an empty stomach and without sugar.
• Purple or white basil tea: place 10 grams of plant per cup of water, boil covered, and drink 3 cups a day for 5 days.
• Horsetail tea: Its cleansing properties help fight infection. Place 10 grams of the plant per cup of water, boil covered, and drink 3 cups a day for 5 days.
• Birch tea: cleanses the urinary tract. Add 10 grams of the plant per cup of water, boil covered, and drink 3 cups a day for 5 days.