Bladder Infection: Natural Treatments for Cystitis
Bladder Infection: Natural Treatments for Cystitis
Bladder infection or cystitis is the inflammation of the bladder. This can be a very painful condition that affects many women and men.
However, bladder infections are more common in women than in men. This is simply because of their Anatomy. Women’s urethras are usually shorter and closer to the external world. This increases their risk of coming into contact with bacteria.
People suffering from cystitis find themselves having a frequent urge to go to the bathroom, but when they go, not very much happens, and if it does, urination may come with a burning sensation.
As well, it is important to note that if a bladder infection is left untreated, it can move up to the kidneys and cause a kidney infection, which can be a very serious condition.
What are some of the causes?
The most common cause of bladder infection is from the urinary tract infection, or UTI, which is usually a result from bacteria called Shirisha Coli or ecoli. This is NOT the same coli bacteria found in food. Other germs can also lead to bladder infections.
Other causes include lifestyle choices such as diets high in sugar and processed food, not drinking enough water, drinking high amounts of alcohol and caffeinated drinks, using underwear that does not fitting properly and creates an environment in which bacteria thrive.
Moreover, there are anatomical causes. The ligaments holding up your bladder actually become weaker as you age, causing the position of the bladder to move, and resulting in some urine staying in the bladder.
In addition, if you’re holding in your urine, that can also result in unwanted UTIs and bladder infections.
There are other medical conditions such as diabetes, pregnancy, kidney stones, and large prostate that can give rise to this condition.
Bladder Infection Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the individual. Symptoms can be very mild or they can be very severe.
Common symptoms includes urinary frequency or you feel like you have more urgency to go to the bathroom, pain when you’re urinating, pressure or pain in your lower pelvis which is usually above your pubic bone, dark, cloudy, bloody or even a very strong smelling urine, and a fever as well.
Natural perfect treatments for cystitis
The main thing to focus on during treatment is the acute infection. We will be getting rid of the bacteria first. After it is controlled, we’re going to focus on the factors that actually contribute to the recurrence or appearance of the chronic infection.
There are a few natural treatments tools that we use such as diet, lifestyle, nutrition and botanical medicine.
Diet and lifestyle
First thing we’re going to talk about diet and lifestyle. Diet is important! In order to combat the bacteria, we need to find a diet that supports the healthy colon microflora.
For example, you want to avoid foods that are very high in sugar and refined carbs. You also want to avoid any food allergies or intolerances that can irritate the bladder.
Moreover, you need to make sure you intake enough fluid and that you are properly hydrated at all times. That way your body increases the urine outflow and decrease the chance of you getting an infection.
Other ways to improve your condition is personal hygiene. It is highly important to maintain a clean set of clothes that adapt to the needs of your body such as wearing the right type and fit of underwear and clothes so it’s more breathable.
Clinical Nutrition
There are different types of supplements that will help to support the immune system, and actually helps to inhibit the bacteria sticking to the bladder wall. You want to focus on supplements that have the following benefits:
First, it has to help relax the smooth muscle tissue in the bladder and decrease any inflammation. Secondly, it has to support the bladder connective tissue allowing it to retain its integrity.
Consult with our naturopath to see which supplement can be most beneficial for you.
Botanical Medicine
Lastly we’re going to going to talk about botanical medicine. There are different herbs that can help with the bladder infection. The most important ones are the antimicrobial.
This means this group of herbs helps to kill the bacteria and prevent any recurrent infection.
For example, bearberry, dandelion leaf, and goldenseal have been known to be effective when treating bladder infections.
What to Do Next
The therapies mentioned today are all natural. All our clinics offer food sensitivity or intolerance testing if you’re interested. Our naturopaths can assist you with dietary recommendation, clinical nutrition, and botanical medicine.
Remember, there are lots of options out there for people with bladder infection and many alternatives for you to consider. If you have any more questions or concerns feel free to contact us at any of our clinics.