A urinary tract infection (UTI) is defined as an infection in any part of the urinary system – kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. It is the most common bacterial infection in both community and hospital-based settings. Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the bacterium which causes the vast majority of UTIs.
Though UTIs can affect anyone, women are more susceptible to the infection than men. 1 in 5 women will have a UTI at least once in her lifetime. About 20% of women who have previously contracted UTIs will have a recurrent infection.
What are the signs and symptoms of a UTI?
If you have one or more of the following signs and symptoms, you are more likely to have a UTI.
- Frequent or persistent urge to urinate but unable to pass much urine
- Pain or burning sensation during urination
- Pain or pressure in the rectum (men) or in the area of the pubic bone (women)
- Blood-stained, cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Discomfort in lower abdomen
- Fever or chills
Prescribed antibiotics are typically used to treat UTIs. However, antibiotics tend to destroy both beneficial and harmful bacteria. In addition, some antibiotics may be ruled out if the bacteria causing infections have developed resistance to the prescribed antibiotics. Imbalanced microflora and bacteria’s resistance to antibiotics will further increase women’s risk towards UTI recurrence.
How to prevent a UTI?
There are several measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing a UTI or stop it from coming back, including:
- Drinking plenty of water
- Emptying the bladder regularly and completely, especially after sexual intercourse
- Wiping your bottom from front to back after going to the toilet
- Avoid using any perfumed products around your genitals
- Avoid using spermicide-containing products, particularly with contraceptive devices such as a diaphragm
Natural remedies for treating UTIs
Look out for the natural ingredients listed below as the first defence to fight UTIs.
Cranberry contains A-type proanthocyanidins (PACs), a specific type of flavonoid compound which provides dual antioxidant and bacterial anti-adhesion properties. It prevents the bacteria from adhering to the lining of the urinary tract, thereby reducing the likelihood of infection and recurrence.
Saw palmetto has long been used to treat bladder inflammation and UTIs. In addition to its role in improving urinary tract function, it is said to aid in the treatment of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) in men.
Pygeum, an extract made from the bark of the African plum tree, is a traditional remedy used for treating inflammatory urinary tract disorders. It helps improve the symptoms of BPH and relieve prostate swelling.
Rich in lycopene, tomato boasts high antioxidant properties to support prostate and urinary tract health. It plays a protective role in the prevention of prostate cancer.
Uva ursi has been shown to be effective in treating UTIs. It is loaded with arbutin, a glycoside with diuretic and urinary antiseptic actions. It helps flush out bacteria by promoting a healthy urine flow.
