Bladder infection is also medically known as cystitis. This condition is brought about by a bacterial infection that affects the bladder. Although this condition can affect both men and women, it is most commonly observed in women. This is because the distance between the urethra and bladder is very small in case of women. This condition is also referred to as a urinary tract infection or UTI. A urinary tract infection starts in the urethra and progresses to infect the urinary bladder. This condition can become very serious if it reaches the kidneys.
The urinary tract of a woman generally contains healthy bacteria in small numbers in order to keep the urinary tract sterile. However, when the defense of the body is compromised, it leads to the multiplication of bacteria known as E. coli. This bacterium then infects the urinary tract and progresses upwards infecting the kidneys, if not treated in time. As mentioned earlier the first line of treatment is antibiotics. You can follow these simple home remedies to obtain relief from the pain and uneasiness that you may experience while facing this condition.
- One of the simplest remedies to treat this condition is to drink plenty of water. This helps dilute the urine and causes a frequent need to urinate. In this process, most of the bacteria get flushed out of the urinary bladder.
- In order to gain relief from the pain in your lower abdominal region, you may place a heating pad on it. In case you cannot get hold of a heating pad, heat some water and fill it in a bottle. This hot water bottle can now be placed on your lower abdominal region in place of a heating pad. This will provide you with effective relief from the pain and discomfort.
- Baking soda is very effective when it comes to treating bladder infections. Add one teaspoon of baking soda powder to a glass of water. Baking soda works by reducing the acidity level of urine thus easing the burning sensation.
- You can also soak in a moderately hot tub of water to which baking soda has been added. This will help in soothing the burning and itchy sensation.
- You can also speed up your recovery and avoid future encounters with bladder infections by drinking pineapple juice, cranberry juice or blueberry juice on a regular basis.
- Most cases of bladder infections occur due to sexually transmitted infections; therefore it is better to practice safe sex. Emptying the bladder after sexual intercourse is a healthy practice as it helps in flushing bacteria out of the urinary tract.
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