URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS

Symptoms

Symptoms of urinary tract infections (UTI’s) vary depending on the age of the adult or child, and on which part of the urinary tract is infected. In younger children and infants, the symptoms may be very general. Sometimes the only symptom is a fever that seems to appear for no reason and doesn't go away.

In older children and adults, signs and symptoms can reveal which part of the urinary tract is infected They include:

• A pain, burning, or stinging sensation when urinating
• An increased urge to urinate or frequent urination (though a very small amount of urine may actually be produced)
• Fever (though this is not always present)
• Frequent night waking to go to the bathroom
• Low back pain or abdominal pain in the area of the bladder (generally below the navel)
• Foul-smelling urine that may look cloudy or contain blood

Causes

Urinary Tract Infections (UTI or cystitis) are almost always caused by bacterial infection. Nearly all episodes of cystitis (90%) are caused by bowel bacteria known as E coli.

UTI’s can also be caused by bacteria that 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 there are no symptoms. However, some people seem to be prone to infection, including women and older people.

How to treat it

Once 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.

Be sure to follow your instructions carefully and completely. If you have any allergies to drugs, be sure your doctor knows what they are.

Lifestyle considerations

Changing some of your daily habits may help you avoid UTI’s.

For instance, drink lots of fluid to flush the bacteria from your system. Water is best. Try 6 to 8 glasses a day.

Also 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.

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 tight-fitting jeans and nylon underwear, which trap moisture and can help bacteria grow.

Your doctor can help design your lifestyle program and provide referrals to other health professionals.

Your local pharmacist is an excellent source of information about appropriate medications that may be helpful in your treatment.

Sourced from:
www.mayoclinic.com
http://health.ivillage.com
www.medicinenet.com

How Herron Can Help

  • Cranberry 10,000

    Cranberry 10,000

    Cranberry 10,000 is an effective and convenient once-a-day dose of high quality cranberry extract, helping to relieve symptoms associated with urinary tract infections (cystitis).
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  • Herron Pure 100% Cranberry 12,500

    Cranberry juice can be used to support the health of the urinary tract and may reduce the incidence of urinary tract infection, such as cystitis. Cranberry also plays a role in reducing the urine odour associated with incontinence.
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Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional. Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet.

Urinary Tract Infections Products