A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria enters the bladder. It makes it's way there through the urethra and there is a chance that it will multiply once it gets to the bladder. UTI's are also known as cystitis or a bladder infection.
A UTI can be extremely uncomfortable but they are easy to treat. The most common cause of a bladder infection is the E. Coli bacterium.
Bladder infection's usually fall under two categories. Either your lower tract or upper tract can become infected. A lower tract infection takes place in the urethra and sometimes the bladder. The second type of infection, upper tract, is more serious. An upper tract infection involves bacteria attacking the kidneys. The bacteria comes from the blood or travels up through the bladder to the kidneys. Another name for a kidney infection is pyelonephritis.
There are many symptoms that will alert you that a UTI is present: A need to urinate with no warning, urinating more often than normal, pain during urination, abnormal looking or smelling urine, lower back pain, pain in the abdominal area or a fever.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms then you should go see your doctor right away. They will give you an exam of your pelvis, lower back and abdomen. You will need to tell them about the symptoms you have been experiencing. They will take a look at your medical history in order to give you the most accurate diagnosis possible.
If you choose to go with conventional medicine then you will likely receive a prescription for an antibiotic. You might want to pickup some OTC painkillers and anti-inflammatories to complement the prescription the doctor gives you. Keep in mind that using an antibiotic to treat a bladder infection might make you more prone to getting them in the future. Using antibiotics also makes it more likely that a yeast infection or thrush will develop in the future.
Going with natural remedies can help to stop both the pain and infection itself. Make sure you talk with your doctor about going this route. Also, speak with a homeopath about which herbs would work best for you. Buchu, St. Johns Wort, Lemon Balm, Bilberry, Avena Sativa and Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi will help to prevent further infection. They support the immune system and strengthen your bladder so that it is not prone to having infection spread through it.
Massage, acupuncture, nutrition therapy and exercises designed to strengthen the pelvic muscles are all helpful in dealing with a current or recurring UTI. They will help you deal with the discomfort and strengthen your urinary system.
Author Resource:-
Dee Braun, a single mom of 6, is a Cert. Aromatherapist & natural health practitioner. Click now to visit Natural Holistic Health Blog which offers info on more natural home remedies & healing techniques for common health & emotional ailments and conditions at http://www.Natural-Holistic-Health.com/
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