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Symptoms of a urinary tract infection include:
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Painful, burning sensation in bladder or urethra during urination
- Tired, shaky, washed-out feeling
- Milky or cloudy-looking urine, even reddish if blood is present
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is caused by bacteria in the long tube (urethra) that discharges urine from the bladder. Bacteria from the digestive tract sometimes stick to the opening of the urethra and multiply. If not treated, this infection can then move into the bladder, also causing an infection there. Millions of people develop UTIs every year. Women are more prone than men to develop UTIs. Different types of microorganisms, such as Chlamydia, can also cause UTIs.
Alternative medicines may keep you from getting a UTI. Once you have one, it needs to be treated with conventional antibiotics to prevent kidney damage.
Before, during and after treatment:
- Drink lots of water during and after treatment to let the bladder clean itself. Cranberry juice may help. People with urinary tract infections should avoid coffee and spicy foods.
- Take antibiotics until the prescription is finished to completely kill the bacteria. Otherwise you may increase the risk that the infection will return.
- Quit smoking. Smoking is linked to bladder problems.
- Urinate when you feel the urge.
- Wipe front to back after urination or a bowel movement.
- Take showers instead of baths.
- Cleanse your genital area before and after sex.
Be aware that herbs and supplements are not strictly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Do not assume if a product is considered "natural" that it is harmless. Many substances do not have sound science behind them to prove their safety or how well they work. Manufacturers may not be giving you what you think you are getting, or the way the substance is processed may be unhealthy or unsafe.
With many of these products, doctors do not know enough about them. Herbs and supplements may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medications or can worsen your health conditions. Consider that some supplements, such as vitamin A, may be unsafe when taken in mega doses.
It is strongly advised that you talk to your doctor before taking any supplement or herb. If you are taking an herb or supplement and notice any unusual symptoms, stop taking the substance immediately and talk to your doctor.
| Supplement |
Claim |
Possible Interactions, Side Effects and Dangers |
What the experts say |
| Cranberry |
Can help treat and prevent urinary tract infections. |
People who have allergies to plants, such as blueberries and cranberries, may have an allergic reaction. Do not use cranberries in place of antibiotics. High doses can cause stomach pain and diarrhea. |
Cranberry juice or pills may help prevent urinary tract infections and may help fight the bacteria E. coli. Early studies are small and flawed. However, experts say some evidence shows cranberry does help prevent the infection. Cranberry does nothing for an infection once it has started. |
This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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