Natural Remedies for Cystitis

One in two women in Italy suffers from cystitisBut few people know that this annoying bladder inflammation can actually be prevented, without having to treat it with medication. Prevention involves simple, healthy habits: drinking at least a liter and a half of mineral water a day, avoiding tight-fitting pants, avoiding underwear made of synthetic fibers, and not holding your urine.

Index of topics

What

Cystitis is a bacterial infection that usually causes burning and itching. Therefore, it is very uncomfortable. The pain is concentrated in the lower abdomen, lumbar region, or flank, and also leads to a frequent urge to urinate and to doing so with some difficulty. In some cases, there may even be a few tenths of a second. feverUnfortunately, these bacteria are present in all women, hence the very high probability of contracting cystitis at least once in their lifetime, if not having to deal with multiple infections (recurrent cystitis).

Symptoms

In particular, it is the third most common infection after respiratory and gastrointestinal infections and is caused by the presence of bacteria in the lower part of the intestinal tract. Once they reach the bladder, they multiply excessively, causing a bothersome inflammation of the mucosa. Generally, cystitis, if not chronic, does not involve feverish states and can be treated effectively. However, there are cases in which a wrong diagnosis and an unsuitable treatment can cause a relapse: it happens to one in three women.

Cause

But what are the triggers at the base of cystitis?

Cystitis can be caused by various bacteria that can enter through the vagina and then travel up the urethra, triggering the infection.
Other bacteria can be contracted through the intestine (Escherichia coli): generally present in the intestine, following certain situations such as constipation and colitis they can reach the bladder.
Because of the misleading symptoms, many women mistake cystitis for something that isn't actually cystitis, resorting to the wrong treatments.

To eliminate the problem, you need to see your doctor to find the right diagnosis. You should also undergo a urine culture and a vaginal swab, and while you wait for the results, discuss with your doctor whether to take an anti-inflammatory or antibacterial medication. If the test results indicate cystitis, then your doctor will recommend the following:antibiotic That's right. Repeat the urine culture after about a week, and if the infection persists, perform a kidney or bladder ultrasound to prevent a recurrence.

Natural remedies

Ma How do you treat cystitis? With what effective natural remedies and without becoming prisoners of the drugs?

Drink a lot more. This is probably the most important thing of all, for two reasons: to feel better and to heal. Regardless of the amount of urine in your bladder, the longer it stays in the bladder, the more bacteria grow. And more bacteria means more pain, while drinking more makes it easier to empty your bladder. You can check how much water you need by looking at your urine: if it's clear, you're drinking enough; if it's colored, you're not.
Bicarbonate effect. A teaspoon in a glass of water is enough, four or five times a day. The effect should be immediate, since the bicarbonate It helps the bladder resume normal function. It is not suitable for people with high blood pressure.
No sweets or coffee. These should be absolutely avoided during the entire period of your cystitis, as should alcohol, cheese, fatty foods, and spices. Now more than ever, your diet should be as light and healthy as possible.
Make a hot bath. This helps many women experience less pain. And the greatest relief comes during the inflammation phase. A hot water bottle can also provide a very pleasant sensation and help reduce the burning sensation.
Vitamin C. It's certainly effective in inhibiting the bacterial growth that causes pain and burning. Vitamin C isn't toxic, but 1000 milligrams is considered a high dose and it's best to get your doctor's approval.
Cranberry juice and some herbal teas. The juice of blueberries It contains free acids and ascorbic acid, both useful for cleansing the urinary tract. Both have astringent properties. Bearberry juice is also recommended for cystitis. As for herbal teas, you can choose from mallow, strawberry tree leaves, nettle, heather, and hawkweed. All are effective.
Natural underwear. Avoid underwear made of synthetic materials, and definitely opt for cotton. Likewise, it's best not to wear overly tight clothing, especially during the inflammation phase.
Go to the bathroom before and after sexual intercourse. First, it helps flush out any bacteria present in the vagina, otherwise the bacteria can be pushed into the vagina by sexual intercourse. Then, it means cleaning the bladder and eliminating the bacteria.

When should you worry about cystitis?

Cystitis is a cause for concern when symptoms persist for more than three days, accompanied by fever (a symptom of an ongoing infection), chills, and tremors. Lower abdominal pain also worsens, and there are traces of blood in the urine. The urine, in this case, is cloudy, has a very strong odor, and is dark in color.

What not to do with cystitis

The faults of the diaphragm. The diaphragm has been proven to be a major culprit in cases of persistent and recurrent cystitis. Two mechanisms are likely involved: first, bacteria colonize the diaphragm, which is then inserted deeply into the vagina. Furthermore, the diaphragm interferes with urinary emptying, meaning that bacteria already present in the bladder are not eliminated.

Use pads instead of tampons. No one knows exactly why certain women are more likely to become reinfected, but it appears that vaginal manipulation of any kind, whether sexual, inserting a diaphragm or tampons, always precedes episodes of cystitis. Those who chronically have infections around the time of menstruation are advised to stop using tampons and switch to absorbent.

Pay attention to hygiene. If you don't wash to eliminate bacteria from the perineal area (i.e., between the vagina and rectum), you obviously run the risk of recurring infections. But too much washing can be just as harmful as too little. Constantly douching can introduce bacteria into the vagina and wash away bacteria that are normally present and are not infectious. This can lead to irritation of the urethra, which is another urinary tract infection. Very strong antibacterial soaps do the same thing, altering the vaginal flora, making you more susceptible to infections. The bottom line: cleanliness is important, but don't obsess over it.

Prevention

Prevention of cystitis is primarily linked to physical hygiene factors.

Always give in to the urge to urinate, and do not force yourself to postpone emptying your bladder.
Don't hold your urine and empty your bladder several times a day.
Keep bowel movements regular. Fiber consumption certainly helps regulate bowel movements.
After going to the toilet, always wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from passing from the anal area to the urethra.
Strictly observe hygiene rules during menstruation and after sexual intercourse.
Do not use irritating hygiene products.
Avoid wearing underwear made of synthetic fibers. White cotton underwear is ideal.
Avoid wearing trousers that are too tight.
Drink a lot and throughout the day: at least a litre and a half of mineral water.
Avoid overly aggressive intimate cleansers that can disrupt your natural defenses, altering your vaginal pH. Always choose a neutral soap, rinse with plenty of water, and use all-cotton sanitary pads.
Urinating before and after sexual intercourse.
Not smoking.

Cranberries against cystitis

Stock up on redberryCranberries are powerful allies against cystitis, thanks to their rich content of flavonoids and anthocyanosides, which have antibacterial properties. Several comparative studies have shown that cranberries reduce the number of recurrences of acute cystitis in women. The cranberry's properties were well known to Native American communities, who used it for skin wounds and to prevent urinary tract infections. Be aware of one important contraindication: cranberries can interfere with anticoagulant medications.

Medicines for cystitis

If cystitis persists after using the natural remedies we've suggested, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor and follow his or her instructions, starting with the recommended tests. Avoid taking homemade medications for this type of condition. Generally, cystitis is treated with medications. antibiotics (treatment depends on the underlying cause of the inflammation) which serve to eradicate the pathogen responsible for cystitis. When cystitis depends on a kidney stones, lithotripsy therapy may be suggested, which aims to break up the stones to facilitate their expulsion.

How to prevent cystitis