Complementary and Alternative Medicines in the Management of ...

4 Home Remedies For Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

The only universally effective method for clearing a UTI is a course of antibiotics, but the following may help reduce symptoms, ease discomfort or prevent future UTIs from developing.

Cranberry Products

Whether in a supplement form or as a juice, cranberry products can be helpful for preventing UTIs. "In a meta-analysis of 50 studies, cranberry products likely reduce the risk of symptomatic, culture-proven UTIs in women with recurrent UTIs and in individuals with a susceptibility to UTIs due to an intervention," says Dr. Clifton . "However, cranberry products may not benefit pregnant women or those with difficulty emptying their bladder." With that in mind, Dr. Clifton says, if you're experiencing severe UTI symptoms it's always worth seeing your doctor to find out if antibiotics are the better route for you.

Cranberry juice may be helpful in the prevention and treatment of UTIs due to a substance it contains called A-type proanthocyanidins, which can keep bacteria from sticking to the wall of the bladder . Dr. Clifton notes that the risk of side effects in the use of cranberry products is low, so they can be worth trying.

Probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms that may improve the health of individuals who take them, Dr. Clifton explains. "They are thought to prevent UTIs by preventing other infectious organisms from ascending up the urinary tract and causing infection," she says. "The literature has not demonstrated that there is a lower rate of UTIs in patients who take probiotics compared to placebo, however, a benefit cannot be completely excluded as there is limited literature available."

Probiotics are available in supplement form and can also be found in foods like yogurt and sauerkraut.

Hydration

Increasing hydration may "flush out" urinary tract infections, says Dr. Clifton. "There have been a few limited studies that have shown decreased rates of UTIs in the short term, but longer-term data is lacking," she says. "That being said, if patients do not have medical contraindications, this is a low risk strategy that may be utilized," she explains.

Nonsteroidal Inflammatories

While nonsteroidal inflammatories (NSAIDS) can't treat or prevent UTIs, they can help improve symptoms. "NSAIDs have been used for the treatment of inflammation as a result of a urinary tract infection," says Dr. Clifton. "Although literature does not necessarily demonstrate these medications treat the urinary tract infections themselves, they may help with inflammation and improve symptoms."

Signs And Symptoms Of A Bladder Infection

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can occur anywhere along the urinary tract, from the uretrha to the bladder to the kidneys. Bladder infections are the most common kind of UTI. These infections occur when your bladder develops an overgrowth of certain types of bacteria that naturally exist in your urinary tract. As a result, you can experience a host of symptoms such as frequent urination or a burning sensation when you pee.

It's important to note that bladder infections affect people assigned female at birth more often than those born male. In fact, more than 50% of people assigned female at birth will experience at least one bladder infection or UTI in their lifetime. This happens because the female urethra (a hollow tube that leads urine out of your body) is shorter than the male urethra. The shorter your urethra, the easier it is for bacteria from your genital area to spread to your bladder.

The symptoms of a bladder infection can vary from person to person. Some people may develop symptoms slowly that worsen over time, while others have more severe symptoms that appear quickly. Learning the signs of a bladder infection and knowing when to seek medical treatment can help you avoid spreading harmful bacteria to your kidneys, which can lead to serious complications.

One of the hallmark signs of a bladder infection is having pain or a burning sensation while you urinate (pee). This symptom is referred to as dysuria. The reason this happens is because the overgrowth of bacteria can cause inflammation and irritation in your urinary tract. As a result, you may have an uncomfortable experience in the bathroom when you need to pee. The inflammation can sometimes also cause a stinging or itching sensation. A bladder infection may often make you feel like you need to use the restroom urgently. You might notice that you're peeing more frequently or have the urge to go to the bathroom even when your bladder is empty. This feeling can happen because bladder infections can irritate and inflame the lining of your bladder, leading to a heightened sensation of needing to urinate. If you develop a bladder infection, it's common to notice changes in your urine. This may cause one or more of the following changes: Changes in the appearance and smell of your urine can be due to a combination of the elements in your urinary tract, such as the bacteria that are causing your infection, an increase in mucus production, and white blood cells that your body creates to help clear up your infection.  You may also notice blood in your urine, which can happen when the linings of your ureter and bladder become irritated and cause bleeding along the urinary tract. It's important to note that if you have blood in your urine, you should see a healthcare provider to confirm if you have a UTI or some other condition that is causing this symptom. This is because blood in the urine can also be a sign of a more serious health condition, such as bladder cancer. Many people with bladder infections commonly experience pain in their back or abdomen (stomach). The pain can feel different for everyone. For some, the pain might feel like a dull pressure, while others have sharp pain. Depending on your symptoms, you might also feel some pain in your pelvic area. Bladder infections aren't extremely common in young children, but they do account for the majority of UTIs that kids experience. After two years of age, symptoms of a bladder infection in children are similar to those in adults. However, you may notice that your potty-trained child may be having an unexpected accident or wets the bed while they sleep. In children under age two, signs of a bladder infection are harder to recognize but can include fever, upset stomach, increased fussiness, and loss of appetite.  If you think you may have a bladder infection, it's important to see your healthcare provider for treatment as soon as you can. Sometimes, urinary pain can go away on its own. However, if you have a bladder infection, leaving the condition untreated can cause serious complications. At your appointment, your healthcare provider can order a urinalysis (urine test) to confirm the presence of an infection. They can also test your urine sample to determine the bacterial cause of your infection so they know which antibiotic treatment is best for you.  Bladder infections don't often warrant urgent medical attention. But, if you have symptoms of a bladder infection and develop a high fever, chills, vomiting, or severe lower or middle back pain, it's important to seek immediate medical care. These symptoms can be a sign that your bladder infection has spread to your kidneys, leading to an inflammatory infection known as pyelonephritis—a potentially serious condition. Bladder infections are a type of urinary tract infection that cause symptoms such as painful urination, changes to urinary frequency, bloody urine, and pain or pressure in the abdomen and back. Seeing a healthcare provider if you experience bladder infection symptoms can help your body get rid of the infection quicker, reduce uncomfortable symptoms, and lower your risk of developing complications.

8 Ayurvedic Home Remedies For Eye Flu

Eye flu, also known as conjunctivitis, is a common eye condition which involves redness, itching, and discharge from the eyes. While it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment, Ayurveda offers some natural remedies that may help alleviate the discomfort associated with eye flu.

1. Triphala Eye Wash

Triphala, a mixture of three dried fruits (amla, bibhitaki, and haritaki), is a powerful Ayurvedic remedy. Prepare a Triphala eye wash by steeping one teaspoon of Triphala powder in a cup of boiled and cooled water. Strain the mixture and use it as an eye wash to cleanse your eyes gently.

2. Rose Water

Rose water has soothing properties that can help relieve eye irritation. Apply a few drops of pure rose water to your eyes using a clean, sterile dropper. It can reduce redness and provide relief from burning sensations.

3. Cucumber Slices

Place chilled cucumber slices over your closed eyelids for 10-15 minutes. Cucumber has a cooling effect and can reduce swelling and redness.

4. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera possesses anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Extract the gel from a fresh aloe vera leaf and apply a thin layer around your eyes. Ensure that the gel doesn't come into direct contact with your eyes.

Also read: Transvestic Disorder And Its Portrayal In Ayushmann Khurrana's Dream Girl 2

5. Turmeric Paste

Turmeric's anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties can help combat eye flu. Mix a pinch of turmeric powder with a few drops of warm ghee (clarified butter) to form a paste. Apply this paste around your eyes but avoid contact with the eyeball.

6. Cold Compress

Applying a cold compress over closed eyes can reduce itching and inflammation. Use a clean cloth soaked in cold water or a bag of ice wrapped in a cloth for this purpose.

7. Avoid Irritants

Stay away from potential irritants like smoke, dust, and harsh sunlight. Protect your eyes with sunglasses when necessary.

8. Maintain Good Hygiene

Wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your eyes, and use a clean, sterile cloth or tissue to wipe your eyes if needed.

Remember that these Ayurvedic remedies can offer relief from eye flu symptoms, but they are not a substitute for professional medical advice. If your symptoms worsen or persist, consult an eye specialist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Prioritise your eye health and seek medical attention when necessary.

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