A common type of urinary tract infection (UTI) particularly endured by women, bladder infections can often be relieved using simple home remedies.
Before delving into the helpful tips, it is best to first know what exactly a bladder infection is.
According to the women’s health-focused information hub Health Shots, a bladder infection is often caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract and can lead to inflammation and discomfort. Symptoms may include frequent urination, a burning sensation, and cloudy urine. The health hub WebMD adds pain in the bladder, stomach, or pelvis as another one of the symptoms.
“If not treated on time or left untreated, it can progress to more serious kidney infections, potentially causing permanent damage,” warns Health Shots.
The above-mentioned info hub has also listed five causes of bladder infections namely unsafe sex activities (such as the excessive use of sex toys or unprotected sex), poor toilet habits (for example, using unhygienic toilet seats), holding urine, leaving a bladder infection untreated and lifestyle-related problems (like obesity or diabetes).
If the above seems relatable, below is a list of home remedies to treat bladder infections.
Drink more water
Drinking lots of fluids can help flush the bacteria out of your bladder, shares WebMD. “Water is an excellent choice since it doesn’t contain any bladder irritants like other beverages, such as caffeine or artificial sweeteners.”
Drink cranberry juice
Proanthocyanidins – a substance in cranberries – may help prevent infection, says Health Shots. The juice may also help flush out the bacteria from the body, provide relief from discomfort and aid in recovery.
Limit protein intake
“It is advisable to avoid protein for two to three days,” notes Health Shots. “Instead, focus on consuming ample fruits and vegetables with minimal seasoning, either raw or boiled.” Following this diet is said to ease the burden on the digestive system, which assists in boosting energy levels to fight infection and aids in toxin elimination.
Apply a heating pad or warm pack
WebMD shares, “A heating pad or warm pack can help ease the discomfort from a bladder infection, especially at night.”
Drink herbal tea
Another drink that may help is herbal tea, as it contains anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. “Prepare a soothing herbal tea by boiling lemon rind and cinnamon in a cup of water, then filter and drink it,” instructs Health Shots.
