Urinary tract infections are a common health concern affecting many people worldwide each year. This type of infection is more common among women than men, and one out of every five women is likely to experience this condition at least once in her lifetime. It can also be caused by external factors like using public restrooms and toilets. Sometimes, improper utilization of contraceptives and personal hygiene products can also cause this condition.

Prognosis and treatment

The condition is known to affect any part of the urinary tract, but the more common condition can be an infection in the bladder or the urethra. The urethral infection is more common among women as the organ is less than 4 cm. In men, the most common condition is bladder or prostate infection. Some cases of urinary tract infections can be mild, and may not need significant intervention. They can be treated by practicing good personal hygiene habits. However, severe cases of urinary tract infections will need prescription treatments.

Generally, certain prescriptions are used as a cure for a urinary tract infection. These treatments are effective in fighting bacteria that cause the infection. In addition, there are also some home remedies for UTI.

Effective home remedies for a UTI
Home remedies have been known to be effective in managing the symptoms of a UTI. They can also help in reducing future occurrences of the condition. To get the best results, it is advisable to follow these UTI home remedies for an extended period. They can be more effective when paired with a doctor’s prescription treatments.

Water intake
Proper intake of water is important to keep any infection at bay. Water is important to flush out the toxins and bacteria in the body. Drinking an adequate amount of water on a daily basis is one of the easiest urinary tract infection remedies to follow.

Probiotics
The presence of probiotics facilitates the growth of good bacteria in the gut. They help in restoring the urogenital flora. Many doctors recommend probiotic supplements to improve the growth of good gut bacteria. One example of good bacteria is lactobacillus. It helps in reducing the incidence of new infections in the urinary tract. This bacteria can be found in food items like curd, yogurt, and cheese. Eating such foods can be a highly effective UTI home remedy.

Vitamin C
Taking Vitamin C supplements or eating fruits rich in Vitamin C will also be an essential solution to this problem. Vitamin C keeps the immune system healthy and reduces the incidence of infection in the body.

Wearing clean and loose clothing
Wearing loose clothing around the groin area reduces the incidence of infections. Clean and loose clothing helps in preventing fungal and yeast infections like candidiasis. Additionally, using clean underwear and hygienic products for the private area will also reduce the incidence of infection.

Change in the birth control methods
Many women using birth control methods like a diaphragm and other physical contraceptives face an increased risk of urinary tract infection. Physical contraceptives increase the infection rate as it makes the urinary tract come into contact with the gastrointestinal tract during the removal of the device. Furthermore, spermicide and lubricants also increase the risk of infections. Make sure to consult a doctor when looking for alternate solutions like a different birth control device.

Cranberries
They are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which reduce the incidence of infections. Cranberries are effective in reducing the amount of bacteria that sticks onto the walls of the urinary tract. They can either be eaten fresh or taken in supplement form. A number of studies have indicated that the consistent consumption of cranberry juice and probiotics has reduced the incidence of urinary tract infections in many people. Thus, it can be considered as an effective urinary tract infection remedy.

Research suggests that a large percentage of UTI cases can be managed with home remedies. This condition is common among patients with no underlying medical conditions. However, in a few serious instances, people can develop complications and will need immediate medical attention. It is important for people to continue with their treatment even though the symptoms may go away. Practicing good personal hygiene habits, drinking sufficient water, and eating probiotics are a few effective remedies for urinary tract infections.