Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common health condition that affects both men and women. They occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and multiply, causing discomfort and pain when urinating, and other symptoms.
If left untreated, a UTI can spread to other parts of the body and cause serious complications. In this article, we will explore 30 tips for managing UTI symptoms.
1. Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking plenty of water can help flush out bacteria from your urinary tract. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.
2. Urinate Frequently
Make sure to urinate frequently, especially after sexual activity. Holding in urine can increase the risk for UTIs.
3. Wipe Front to Back
When wiping after using the restroom, always wipe from front to back to avoid spreading bacteria from the anus to the urethra.
4. Avoid Irritants
Avoid using irritants such as bubble baths, powders, or soaps in the genital area that can cause UTIs.
5. Wear Breathable Clothing
Wearing breathable clothing such as cotton underwear can help prevent moisture buildup in the genital area and reduce the risk for UTIs.
6. Avoid Tight Clothing
Avoid wearing tight clothing, such as skinny jeans or tight leggings, that can increase the moisture and heat in the genital area and cause UTIs.
7. Take Probiotics
Taking probiotics can help promote a healthy urinary tract by restoring the beneficial bacteria that protect against UTIs.
8. Drink Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice contains compounds that can help prevent UTIs by preventing bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract.
9. Take Vitamin C
Taking vitamin C can help boost the immune system and promote a healthy urinary tract.
10. Use Heat Therapy
Using heat therapy, such as a heating pad, can help reduce discomfort and pain associated with UTIs.
11. Take Pain Medication
Taking pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with UTIs.
12. Take Antibiotics
For severe cases of UTIs, antibiotics may be necessary to eliminate the bacterial infection. It is important to finish the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor.
13. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine
Avoiding alcohol and caffeine can help reduce irritation in the urinary tract and decrease the risk for UTIs.
14. Use a Urinary Pain Relief Medication
A urinary pain relief medication such as Phenazopyridine can provide temporary relief from pain and discomfort associated with UTIs.
15. Use a Probiotic Supplement
Using a probiotic supplement can help prevent future UTIs by promoting a healthy urinary tract.
16. Practise Good Hygiene
Practising good hygiene can help reduce the risk for UTIs. This includes regular bathing and washing the genital area before and after sexual activity.
17. Avoid Sexual Activity
Abstaining from sexual activity can help reduce the risk for UTIs.
18. Use Lubrication
Using a water-based lubricant can help reduce friction during sexual activity and decrease the risk for UTIs.
19. Shower Instead of Bathing
Showering instead of bathing can help reduce the risk for UTIs by preventing the accumulation of bacteria in the bathwater.
20. Use Hot Baths
Using hot baths or sitting in warm water can help reduce discomfort and pain associated with UTIs.
21. Take a Medicated Bath
Adding baking soda or vinegar to your bathwater can help reduce irritation and discomfort associated with UTIs.
22. Apply Heat to the Abdomen
Applying heat to the abdomen can help reduce discomfort and pain associated with UTIs.
23. Use Antibacterial Wipes
Using antibacterial wipes can help reduce the risk for UTIs by eliminating bacteria on the skin in the genital area.
24. Take a Urinary Alkalinizer
Taking a urinary alkalinizer medication, such as sodium bicarbonate, can help reduce the acidity in the urinary tract and decrease the risk for UTIs.
25. Take a Prophylactic Antibiotic
Taking a prophylactic antibiotic may be necessary for people who suffer from recurrent UTIs to prevent future infections.
26. Use a Feminine Wash
Using a feminine wash can help maintain proper pH balance in the genital area and reduce the risk for UTIs.
27. Use an Anti-Itch Cream
Using an anti-itch cream, such as hydrocortisone cream, can help relieve itching and irritation associated with UTIs.
28. Avoid Douching
Avoid douching, as it can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and increase the risk for UTIs.
29. Use an Antifungal Cream
Using an antifungal cream can help treat and prevent fungal infections that can contribute to UTIs.
30. Manage Diabetes
Managing diabetes can help reduce the risk for UTIs, as high blood sugar levels can promote bacterial growth in the urinary tract.