Natural Remedies for Bladder and Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
Ranked #16,700 in Healthy Living, #252,063 overall
How does the urinary system work?
Your body takes nutrients from food and uses them to maintain all bodily functions including energy and self-repair. After your body has taken what it needs from the food, waste products are left behind in the blood and in the bowel. The urinary system works with the lungs, skin, and intestines-all of which also excrete wastes-to keep the chemicals and water in your body balanced. Adults eliminate about a quart and a half of urine each day. The amount depends on many factors, especially the amounts of fluid and food a person consumes and how much fluid is lost through sweat and breathing. Certain types of medications can also affect the amount of urine eliminated.
The urinary system removes a type of waste called urea from your blood. Urea is produced when foods containing protein, such as meat, poultry, and certain vegetables, are broken down in the body. Urea is carried in the bloodstream to the kidneys.
The kidneys are bean-shaped organs about the size of your fists. They are near the middle of the back, just below the rib cage. The kidneys remove urea from the blood through tiny filtering units called nephrons. Each nephron consists of a ball formed of small blood capillaries, called a glomerulus, and a small tube called a renal tubule. Urea, together with water and other waste substances, forms the urine as it passes through the nephrons and down the renal tubules of the kidney.
From the kidneys, urine travels down two thin tubes called ureters to the bladder. The ureters are about 8 to 10 inches long. Muscles in the ureter walls constantly tighten and relax to force urine downward away from the kidneys. If urine is allowed to stand still, or back up, a kidney infection can develop. Small amounts of urine are emptied into the bladder from the ureters about every 10 to 15 seconds.
The bladder is a hollow muscular organ shaped like a balloon. It sits in your pelvis and is held in place by ligaments attached to other organs and the pelvic bones. The bladder stores urine until you are ready to go to the bathroom to empty it. It swells into a round shape when it is full and gets smaller when empty. If the urinary system is healthy, the bladder can hold up to 16 ounces (2 cups) of urine comfortably for 2 to 5 hours.
Circular muscles called sphincters help keep urine from leaking. The sphincter muscles close tightly like a rubber band around the opening of the bladder into the urethra, the tube that allows urine to pass outside the body.
Nerves in the bladder tell you when it is time to urinate, or empty your bladder. As the bladder first fills with urine, you may notice a feeling that you need to urinate. The sensation to urinate becomes stronger as the bladder continues to fill and reaches its limit. At that point, nerves from the bladder send a message to the brain that the bladder is full, and your urge to empty your bladder intensifies.
When you urinate, the brain signals the bladder muscles to tighten, squeezing urine out of the bladder. At the same time, the brain signals the sphincter muscles to relax. As these muscles relax, urine exits the bladder through the urethra. When all the signals occur in the correct order, normal urination occurs.
The urinary system removes a type of waste called urea from your blood. Urea is produced when foods containing protein, such as meat, poultry, and certain vegetables, are broken down in the body. Urea is carried in the bloodstream to the kidneys.
The kidneys are bean-shaped organs about the size of your fists. They are near the middle of the back, just below the rib cage. The kidneys remove urea from the blood through tiny filtering units called nephrons. Each nephron consists of a ball formed of small blood capillaries, called a glomerulus, and a small tube called a renal tubule. Urea, together with water and other waste substances, forms the urine as it passes through the nephrons and down the renal tubules of the kidney.
From the kidneys, urine travels down two thin tubes called ureters to the bladder. The ureters are about 8 to 10 inches long. Muscles in the ureter walls constantly tighten and relax to force urine downward away from the kidneys. If urine is allowed to stand still, or back up, a kidney infection can develop. Small amounts of urine are emptied into the bladder from the ureters about every 10 to 15 seconds.
The bladder is a hollow muscular organ shaped like a balloon. It sits in your pelvis and is held in place by ligaments attached to other organs and the pelvic bones. The bladder stores urine until you are ready to go to the bathroom to empty it. It swells into a round shape when it is full and gets smaller when empty. If the urinary system is healthy, the bladder can hold up to 16 ounces (2 cups) of urine comfortably for 2 to 5 hours.
Circular muscles called sphincters help keep urine from leaking. The sphincter muscles close tightly like a rubber band around the opening of the bladder into the urethra, the tube that allows urine to pass outside the body.
Nerves in the bladder tell you when it is time to urinate, or empty your bladder. As the bladder first fills with urine, you may notice a feeling that you need to urinate. The sensation to urinate becomes stronger as the bladder continues to fill and reaches its limit. At that point, nerves from the bladder send a message to the brain that the bladder is full, and your urge to empty your bladder intensifies.
When you urinate, the brain signals the bladder muscles to tighten, squeezing urine out of the bladder. At the same time, the brain signals the sphincter muscles to relax. As these muscles relax, urine exits the bladder through the urethra. When all the signals occur in the correct order, normal urination occurs.
What are some disorders of the urinary system?
Disorders of the urinary system range in severity from easy to treat to life threatening.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition in men that affects the prostate gland, which is part of the male reproductive system. The prostate is located at the bottom of the bladder and surrounds the urethra. BPH is an enlargement of the prostate gland that can interfere with urinary function in older men. It causes blockage by squeezing the urethra, which can make it difficult to urinate.
Men with BPH frequently have other bladder symptoms including an increase in frequency of bladder emptying both during the day and at night. Most men over age 60 have some BPH, but not all have problems with blockage. There are many different treatment options for BPH.
Painful bladder syndrome/Interstitial cystitis (PBS/IC) is a chronic bladder disorder also known as frequency-urgency-dysuria syndrome. In this disorder, the bladder wall can become inflamed and irritated. The inflammation can lead to scarring and stiffening of the bladder, decreased bladder capacity, pinpoint bleeding, and, in rare cases, ulcers in the bladder lining. The cause of IC is unknown at this time.
Kidney stones is the term commonly used to refer to stones, or calculi, in the urinary system. Stones form in the kidneys and may be found anywhere in the urinary system. They vary in size. Some stones cause great pain while others cause very little. The aim of treatment is to remove the stones, prevent infection, and prevent recurrence. Both nonsurgical and surgical treatments are used. Kidney stones affect men more often than women.
Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland that results in urinary frequency and urgency, burning or painful urination, a condition called dysuria, and pain in the lower back and genital area, among other symptoms. In some cases, prostatitis is caused by bacterial infection and can be treated with antibiotics. But the more common forms of prostatitis are not associated with any known infecting organism. Antibiotics are often ineffective in treating the nonbacterial forms of prostatitis.
Proteinuria is the presence of abnormal amounts of protein in the urine. Healthy kidneys take wastes out of the blood but leave in protein. Protein in the urine does not cause a problem by itself. But it may be a sign that your kidneys are not working properly.
Renal (kidney) failure results when the kidneys are not able to regulate water and chemicals in the body or remove waste products from your blood. Acute renal failure (ARF) is the sudden onset of kidney failure. This condition can be caused by an accident that injures the kidneys, loss of a lot of blood, or some drugs or poisons. ARF may lead to permanent loss of kidney function. But if the kidneys are not seriously damaged, they may recover. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the gradual reduction of kidney function that may lead to permanent kidney failure, or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). You may go several years without knowing you have CKD.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are caused by bacteria in the urinary tract. Women get UTIs more often than men. UTIs are treated with antibiotics. Drinking lots of fluids also helps by flushing out the bacteria.
The name of the UTI depends on its location in the urinary tract. An infection in the bladder is called cystitis. If the infection is in one or both of the kidneys, the infection is called pyelonephritis. This type of UTI can cause serious damage to the kidneys if it is not adequately treated.
Urinary incontinence, loss of bladder control, is the involuntary passage of urine. There are many causes and types of incontinence, and many treatment options. Treatments range from simple exercises to surgery. Women are affected by urinary incontinence more often than men.
Urinary retention, or bladder-emptying problems, is a common urological problem with many possible causes. Normally, urination can be initiated voluntarily and the bladder empties completely. Urinary retention is the abnormal holding of urine in the bladder. Acute urinary retention is the sudden inability to urinate, causing pain and discomfort.
Causes can include an obstruction in the urinary system, stress, or neurologic problems. Chronic urinary retention refers to the persistent presence of urine left in the bladder after incomplete emptying. Common causes of chronic urinary retention are bladder muscle failure, nerve damage, or obstructions in the urinary tract. Treatment for urinary retention depends on the cause.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition in men that affects the prostate gland, which is part of the male reproductive system. The prostate is located at the bottom of the bladder and surrounds the urethra. BPH is an enlargement of the prostate gland that can interfere with urinary function in older men. It causes blockage by squeezing the urethra, which can make it difficult to urinate.
Men with BPH frequently have other bladder symptoms including an increase in frequency of bladder emptying both during the day and at night. Most men over age 60 have some BPH, but not all have problems with blockage. There are many different treatment options for BPH.
Painful bladder syndrome/Interstitial cystitis (PBS/IC) is a chronic bladder disorder also known as frequency-urgency-dysuria syndrome. In this disorder, the bladder wall can become inflamed and irritated. The inflammation can lead to scarring and stiffening of the bladder, decreased bladder capacity, pinpoint bleeding, and, in rare cases, ulcers in the bladder lining. The cause of IC is unknown at this time.
Kidney stones is the term commonly used to refer to stones, or calculi, in the urinary system. Stones form in the kidneys and may be found anywhere in the urinary system. They vary in size. Some stones cause great pain while others cause very little. The aim of treatment is to remove the stones, prevent infection, and prevent recurrence. Both nonsurgical and surgical treatments are used. Kidney stones affect men more often than women.
Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland that results in urinary frequency and urgency, burning or painful urination, a condition called dysuria, and pain in the lower back and genital area, among other symptoms. In some cases, prostatitis is caused by bacterial infection and can be treated with antibiotics. But the more common forms of prostatitis are not associated with any known infecting organism. Antibiotics are often ineffective in treating the nonbacterial forms of prostatitis.
Proteinuria is the presence of abnormal amounts of protein in the urine. Healthy kidneys take wastes out of the blood but leave in protein. Protein in the urine does not cause a problem by itself. But it may be a sign that your kidneys are not working properly.
Renal (kidney) failure results when the kidneys are not able to regulate water and chemicals in the body or remove waste products from your blood. Acute renal failure (ARF) is the sudden onset of kidney failure. This condition can be caused by an accident that injures the kidneys, loss of a lot of blood, or some drugs or poisons. ARF may lead to permanent loss of kidney function. But if the kidneys are not seriously damaged, they may recover. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the gradual reduction of kidney function that may lead to permanent kidney failure, or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). You may go several years without knowing you have CKD.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are caused by bacteria in the urinary tract. Women get UTIs more often than men. UTIs are treated with antibiotics. Drinking lots of fluids also helps by flushing out the bacteria.
The name of the UTI depends on its location in the urinary tract. An infection in the bladder is called cystitis. If the infection is in one or both of the kidneys, the infection is called pyelonephritis. This type of UTI can cause serious damage to the kidneys if it is not adequately treated.
Urinary incontinence, loss of bladder control, is the involuntary passage of urine. There are many causes and types of incontinence, and many treatment options. Treatments range from simple exercises to surgery. Women are affected by urinary incontinence more often than men.
Urinary retention, or bladder-emptying problems, is a common urological problem with many possible causes. Normally, urination can be initiated voluntarily and the bladder empties completely. Urinary retention is the abnormal holding of urine in the bladder. Acute urinary retention is the sudden inability to urinate, causing pain and discomfort.
Causes can include an obstruction in the urinary system, stress, or neurologic problems. Chronic urinary retention refers to the persistent presence of urine left in the bladder after incomplete emptying. Common causes of chronic urinary retention are bladder muscle failure, nerve damage, or obstructions in the urinary tract. Treatment for urinary retention depends on the cause.
What you should know about Urinary Tract Infections or UTI's
A UTI is an infection anywhere in the urinary tract. Your urinary tract includes the organs that collect and store urine and release it from your body. They are the:
Kidneys. Your kidneys collect wastes and extra water from your blood to make urine.
Ureters. The ureters carry the urine from your kidneys to your bladder.
Bladder. Your bladder stores the urine and squeezes it out when full.
Prostate. The prostate adds fluid to semen. (men only)
Urethra. The urethra carries the urine out of your bladder when you urinate.
What causes a UTI?
Usually, a UTI is caused by bacteria that can also live in the digestive tract, in the vagina, or around the urethra, which is at the entrance to the urinary tract. Most often these bacteria enter the urethra and travel to the bladder and kidneys. Usually, your body removes the bacteria, and you have no symptoms. However, some people-including women and older people of both sexes-seem to be prone to infection.
How are UTIs typically treated by a doctor?
Once it is determined that your symptoms have been caused by an infection, your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic. Antibiotics can kill the bacteria causing the infection. The antibiotic prescribed will depend on the type of bacteria found.
**Please note that this antibiotic will also kill the good bacteria which is required for the proper function of your Urinary Tract.
For simple infections, you'll be given 3 days of therapy. For more serious infections, you'll be given a prescription for 7 days or longer. Be sure to follow your instructions carefully and completely. If you have any allergies to drugs, be sure your doctor knows what they are.
Will UTIs come back?
Most healthy women don't have repeat infections. However, about one out of every five women who get a UTI will get another one. Some women get three or more UTIs a year. Men frequently get repeat infections. Anyone who has diabetes or a problem that makes it difficult to urinate may get repeat infections.
If you get repeat infections, talk with your doctor about special treatment plans. Your doctor may refer you to a urologist, a doctor who specializes in urinary problems. Your doctor may have you take antibiotics over a longer period to help prevent repeat infections. Some doctors give patients who get frequent UTIs a supply of antibiotics to be taken at the first sign of infection. Make sure you understand and follow the instructions your doctor gives you.
Men may need to take antibiotics for a longer time. Bacteria can hide deep in prostate tissue. Men shouldn't take their spouse's pills and think they will cure the infection.
How can I prevent more UTIs?
Changing some of your daily habits may help you avoid UTIs.
Drink lots of fluid to flush the bacteria from your system. Water is best. Try for 6 to 8 glasses a day.
Drink cranberry juice or take vitamin C. Both increase the acid in your urine so bacteria can't grow easily. Cranberry juice also makes your bladder wall slippery, so bacteria can't stick to it.
Urinate frequently and go when you first feel the urge. Bacteria can grow when urine stays in the bladder too long.
Urinate shortly after sex. This can flush away bacteria that might have entered your urethra during sex. Drinking a glass of water will also help.
After using the toilet, always wipe from front to back, especially after a bowel movement.
Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes so that air can keep the area dry. Avoid tightfitting jeans and nylon underwear, which trap moisture and can help bacteria grow.
For women, using a diaphragm or spermicide for birth control can lead to UTIs by increasing bacteria growth. If you have trouble with UTIs, consider modifying your birth control method. Unlubricated condoms or spermicidal condoms increase irritation, which may help bacteria grow. Consider switching to lubricated condoms without spermicide or using a nonspermicidal lubricant.
Kidneys. Your kidneys collect wastes and extra water from your blood to make urine.
Ureters. The ureters carry the urine from your kidneys to your bladder.
Bladder. Your bladder stores the urine and squeezes it out when full.
Prostate. The prostate adds fluid to semen. (men only)
Urethra. The urethra carries the urine out of your bladder when you urinate.
What causes a UTI?
Usually, a UTI is caused by bacteria that can also live in the digestive tract, in the vagina, or around the urethra, which is at the entrance to the urinary tract. Most often these bacteria enter the urethra and travel to the bladder and kidneys. Usually, your body removes the bacteria, and you have no symptoms. However, some people-including women and older people of both sexes-seem to be prone to infection.
How are UTIs typically treated by a doctor?
Once it is determined that your symptoms have been caused by an infection, your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic. Antibiotics can kill the bacteria causing the infection. The antibiotic prescribed will depend on the type of bacteria found.
**Please note that this antibiotic will also kill the good bacteria which is required for the proper function of your Urinary Tract.
For simple infections, you'll be given 3 days of therapy. For more serious infections, you'll be given a prescription for 7 days or longer. Be sure to follow your instructions carefully and completely. If you have any allergies to drugs, be sure your doctor knows what they are.
Will UTIs come back?
Most healthy women don't have repeat infections. However, about one out of every five women who get a UTI will get another one. Some women get three or more UTIs a year. Men frequently get repeat infections. Anyone who has diabetes or a problem that makes it difficult to urinate may get repeat infections.
If you get repeat infections, talk with your doctor about special treatment plans. Your doctor may refer you to a urologist, a doctor who specializes in urinary problems. Your doctor may have you take antibiotics over a longer period to help prevent repeat infections. Some doctors give patients who get frequent UTIs a supply of antibiotics to be taken at the first sign of infection. Make sure you understand and follow the instructions your doctor gives you.
Men may need to take antibiotics for a longer time. Bacteria can hide deep in prostate tissue. Men shouldn't take their spouse's pills and think they will cure the infection.
How can I prevent more UTIs?
Changing some of your daily habits may help you avoid UTIs.
Drink lots of fluid to flush the bacteria from your system. Water is best. Try for 6 to 8 glasses a day.
Drink cranberry juice or take vitamin C. Both increase the acid in your urine so bacteria can't grow easily. Cranberry juice also makes your bladder wall slippery, so bacteria can't stick to it.
Urinate frequently and go when you first feel the urge. Bacteria can grow when urine stays in the bladder too long.
Urinate shortly after sex. This can flush away bacteria that might have entered your urethra during sex. Drinking a glass of water will also help.
After using the toilet, always wipe from front to back, especially after a bowel movement.
Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes so that air can keep the area dry. Avoid tightfitting jeans and nylon underwear, which trap moisture and can help bacteria grow.
For women, using a diaphragm or spermicide for birth control can lead to UTIs by increasing bacteria growth. If you have trouble with UTIs, consider modifying your birth control method. Unlubricated condoms or spermicidal condoms increase irritation, which may help bacteria grow. Consider switching to lubricated condoms without spermicide or using a nonspermicidal lubricant.
UT-Tonic
For natural urinary tract and bladder support.
Triple Complex UT-Tonic is a combination of three cellular-supporting tissue salts selected for their positive effects on urinary tract and bladder health.This combination of tissue salts can be used regularly in a general capacity to promote systemic balance in the urinary system as well as in conjunction with other remedies to maintain therapeutic effectiveness.
Tissue salts, also called cell salts or biochemic salts, are composed of minerals that occur naturally at a cellular level in our bodies and all organic matter on earth (plants, rocks, and soil).
In in the system of biochemistry, there have been twelve essential tissue salts identified as important components of all body cells. Without this combination, true health is unattainable, as each tissue salt plays a different yet vital role in maintaining cellular health in the organs and systems of the body.
Cell salts, or biochemic tissue salts help to maximize health efforts, and enhance the bioavailability of all supplements, remedies, and nutrients in your diet to ensure that all the cells of your body and urinary system are functioning effectively.
Our tissue salts are manufactured to ensure safe yet optimum potency, and they are safe to use for all ages, as well as during pregnancy and nursing.
Learn more about UT-Tonic
UTI-Clear
Promotes bladder and urinary tract health.
UTI-Clear is a 100% safe, non-addictive, natural herbal remedy formulated specifically for urinary tract health.UTI-Clear can be used consistently to safely promote health and systemic balance in the urinary system.
UTI-Clear contains seven herbs selected for their supportive function in maintaining urinary tract health, normal urine flow, and sustained bladder health.
UTI-Clear supports the healthy functioning of the urinary system, thereby helping to maintain balanced urine flow, suitable pH in the bladder, consistent elimination of toxins, and routine, healthy performance.
UTI-Clear can make all the difference to urinary tract health, without compromising health and without the risk of serious side effects.
The formula remains true to the whole spectrum method of herbal extraction, ensuring the bioavailability and balance of all the active ingredients contained in the remedy. This method of manufacture also significantly reduces the likelihood of side effects and maintains all active ingredients in perfect balance - exactly as nature intended.
Learn more about UTI-Clear
ImmunityPlus
For full immune system support for adults and teens.
ImmunityPlus is a 100% safe, non-addictive natural herbal remedy formulated to safely maintain the health and systemic balance of the immune system, without harmful side effects and stimulants.ImmunityPlus contains a selection of herbs known for their supportive function in maintaining immune system health and well-being. It supports the healthy functioning of the immune system, thereby helping to maintain the natural defense against pathogens and optimum performance.
As we grow older, we sometimes begin to notice that our immune systems are not as good as they used to be. ImmunityPlus can especially benefit those individuals needing to support routine immune strength to guard against common conditions associated with the maturing of cells.
ImmunityPlus can be used consistently, without compromising health and not causing serious side effects, to help maintain the body's natural ability to fight viral and bacterial infections-- while also supporting healthy convalescence.
The formula remains true to the whole spectrum method of herbal extraction, ensuring the bioavailability and balance of all the active ingredients contained in the remedy. This method of manufacture also significantly reduces the likelihood of side effects and maintains all active ingredients in perfect balance - exactly as nature intended!
Learn more about ImmunityPlus
Prostate Dr.
Promotes the health and functioning of the prostate.
Prostate Dr. is a 100% natural liquid herbal formula to promote the health and functioning of the prostate and urinary tract in men.Prostate Dr. contains ingredients specifically chosen for their immune support properties and their promotion of prostate health. Prostate Dr. is presented in handy tincture form for rapid absorption into the system.
Prostate Dr. is a unique and proprietary blend of three herbal remedies combined in therapeutic dosage to help address an enlarged prostate associated with common aging. Used regularly, Prostate Dr. will provide ongoing support to a healthy prostate.
The formula remains true to the whole spectrum method of herbal extraction, ensuring the bio-availability and balance of all the active ingredients contained in the remedy. This method of manufacture also significantly reduces the likelihood of side effects and maintains all active ingredients in perfect balance - exactly as nature intended!
Learn more about Prostate Dr.
Kidney Dr.
Supports the urinary system and maintains healthy kidney function
Kidney Dr. is a 100% natural herbal remedy containing herbs known for their tonic effect on the kidneys and the maintenance of health in the entire urinary system. Regular use supports healthy kidney function as well as the body's natural ability to flush out toxins and filter waste - an important function of the kidneys.The formula remains true to the whole spectrum method of herbal extraction, ensuring the potency, bio-availability and balance of all the active ingredients contained in the remedy. This method of manufacture also significantly reduces the likelihood of side effects and maintains all active ingredients in perfect balance - exactly as nature intended!
In combination with a healthy lifestyle and diet which excludes excess sugar, stimulants, artificial preservatives, colorants and excessive alcohol intake, Kidney Dr. can make all the difference, without compromising health or risking serious side effects.
Learn more about Kidney Dr.
Let me know your thoughts!
submit
-
Reply
-
happyhalloween2u
Feb 14, 2011 @ 4:00 pm | delete
- Thanks sona22! I had not heard of the indian gooseberry. Will definitely have to check that one out. Wonder if the gooseberries found in the U.S. work as well?
-
-
Reply
-
DrSri
Feb 13, 2011 @ 3:57 am | delete
- Very useful information on natural treatment for UTI and bladder infections.
http://ity.im/06Fbl
-
-
Reply
-
sona22
Feb 13, 2011 @ 1:32 am | delete
- The topics is helpful. I have another information which I am providing here. It is Indian gooseberry. Regular use of it will reduce the chance of bladder and urinary infections. It also keeps kidney strong.
-
by happyhalloween2u
happyhalloween2u
Halloween is just around the corner! Don't be late getting your costume!
- 4 featured lenses
- Winner of 9 trophies!
- Top lens » Flight Simulator Controllers
Feeling creative?
Create a Lens!
