Home Remedies for Bladder Infection

Bladder infection is also known as cystitis or inflammation of the bladder. It is a type of urinary tract infection and is usually caused by a bacteria, Escherichia coli(E.coli), found in the intestinal tract. Sometimes, the infection can also be caused by other microorganisms like chlamydia and mycoplasma. The bacteria usually enter the urinary tract through the urethra and multiply, which causes bladder infections. Women are more vulnerable to this diseases than men, probably because of the size and position of the urethra. In women, the urethra is short and is much closer to the anus, and therefore, the bacteria can easily move into the bladder and cause an infection. In men, an infection in the prostate gland can cause cystitis. Other causes of bladder infections, are the presence of stones in the bladder or urethra, poor hygiene and holding back urine for a long time. The general symptoms of this disease are pain, a burning sensation and discharge of a very small amount of urine during urination, tendency to urinate frequently and pain in the pubic region.

Home Remedies for Bladder Infection

Bladder infections are normally treated by antibiotics. However, some alternative home remedies are also available to prevent the occurrence and frequency of the disease. One such way to avoid this infection is to drink plenty of water. Drinking lots of water, preferably 7 to 8 glasses daily, helps cleanse the bladder by flushing out the bacteria. Besides, it can also ensure the efficacy of antibiotics by facilitating their absorption and prevent the formation of stones.

Cranberry juice is also an effective medicine for this disease. Cranberry juice produces hippuric acid, which acidifies the urine. This, in turn checks the growth of bacteria and restricts them from attaching themselves to the walls of the bladder. Supplements of this beneficial herb are also available. Some studies have shown that blueberries can also be effective in preventing urinary tract infection.

Sufficient intake of vitamin C has been found beneficial in inhibiting bacterial growth as it acidifies the urine. Besides, it also stimulates and strengthens the immune system to fight against infectious diseases. You can also take a small amount of baking soda mixed in a glass of water. This will help in alleviating the infection. Pineapple contains an enzyme, known as bromelain, which is believed to be beneficial in restricting infections of the urinary tract.

Lysimachia, a Chinese herb, can be of great help in reducing the infection of the bladder, as it prevents the formation of stones. Garlic is also known for its antibacterial properties. A mixture of garlic juice and olive oil mixed in a glass of warm water is recommended. Another antibacterial herb is yarrow. It is also a disinfectant and hence, can be used in treating a urinary bladder infection.

Goldenseal and Oregon grapes have been found to inhibit bacterial growth and boost the immune system to fight against infectious diseases. However, these should not be taken by pregnant and nursing mothers.

In addition to the above said measures, maintaining proper hygiene is important for reducing the occurrence of the disease. One should avoid wearing tight clothes, especially tight undergarments, as it creates a favorable environment for bacterial growth. Alcohol, black tea, coffee and sodas are common bladder irritants and so, should be avoided by individuals suffering from bladder infections. Besides these, avoid holding back the urge to urinate for a long time, as it is one of the most common causes for the recurrence of the disease.

If a bladder infection is not treated on time, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, especially kidneys and the blood stream, which can lead to serious complications. Therefore, if this infection is recurring frequently, then in addition to all these home remedies, one should immediately approach a physician for a proper diagnosis of the disease.