Contents
This is a condition that affects women more often than men. Why? The problem may be the female anatomy, which is conducive to infections – a short urethra allows germs to quickly reach the bladder. At the same time, it is directly adjacent to the vaginal opening and the anus.
How to recognize an infection?
Typical symptoms of cystitis include pain and burning when urinating, the need to urinate frequently or immediately, and pain in the lower abdomen. Additional symptoms may include: red or dark brown urine (haematuria), fever, kidney pain, nausea and vomiting. Pain and burning sensation when urinating do not always indicate a urinary tract infection. It can also be a symptom of urethritis as a result of a sexually transmitted infection. It can also be vaginitis in women due to fungal infection. This is accompanied by discharge and pain during intercourse.
First symptoms of infection? Start doing!
In the beginning, remember to drink plenty of water. Start with a glass of liquid every half hour. This will flush the germs out of the urinary tract. At the same time, diluted urine will not cause burning when visiting the toilet. The most recommended is non-carbonated mineral water, although it can also be another type of drink. However, remember to avoid tea and black coffee – they irritate the bladder. It is also recommended to add blackcurrant or chokeberry juice, which contain a lot of vitamin C, which inhibits the growth of bacteria. You can also reach for herbal mixtures available in pharmacies or tablets or granules with a similar effect – anti-inflammatory and diuretic. While waiting for the effects of drugs, you can take a hot water bottle with warm water and cover yourself with a warm blanket. Heat improves the blood supply to the urinary tract mucosa, accelerating treatment. Chamomile or sage sitz baths will be helpful – they have warming and antibacterial properties.
Cranberry is recommended for the health of the urinary system. It has an anti-inflammatory effect and prevents bacteria from settling on the walls of the urinary tract. You can eat fresh cranberries as a side dish (but they are very acidic) or prepared preserves. You can also drink 2-3 glasses of cranberry juice a day. If we do not have access to this fruit, you can buy a preparation with cranberry extract at the pharmacy. The diet can also be enriched with parsley, celery root and leaves and juniper berries. These products effectively cleanse the kidneys and urinary tract.
How to prevent
- drink plenty of fluids – about 1,5 liters
- urination must not be delayed; urinary retention has a negative effect on the urinary system; it is also worth urinating after sexual intercourse
- you should take care of daily hygiene of intimate places
- if you are using spermicides, you should consult your doctor before changing to another form of contraception
- drink cranberry juice every day (about 1 liter) or take cranberry fruit tablets