Complementary and Alternative Treatments for Bladder Infection (cystitis)

Description

Though bladder infections do strike men, they are more common among women. Known medically as cystitis, this condition is caused by a bacterial infection-usually the bacteria is from the E. coli strain. This bacteria is transferred from the hands, anal area, or skin of the genitals to the bladder through the urethra (or urine canal). Also called honeymoon cystitis, the condition also commonly occurs when bacteria is introduced to the urethra through foreplay or sexual intercourse.

Signs and Symptoms

Burning sensation during urination

Frequent urination

Urge to urinate when the bladder is empty

Shooting pain in the vaginal canal and/or pubic area

Cloudy, blood-streaked, or strong-smelling urine

Pressure or pain in lower abdomen or back

Conventional Medical Treatment

While cystitis can be quite painful, it is also very treatable. At the first sign of a bladder infection, visit your doctor, who can diagnose the condition with a urine test. If left untreated, a bladder infection can migrate through the urinary tract to the kidneys, possibly resulting in a kidney infection (pyelonephritis), which is a more serious condition.

The most common medical treatments are autibiotics, such as sulfa drugs. Your doctor will also ask you to increase your intake of water aud avoid diuretics, such as caffeinated beverages aud alcohol. Symptoms typically abate 24 to 48 hours after beginning medication.

Complementary and Alternative Treatments

Nutrition and Supplementation

Fluids are key to ridding yourself of a bladder infection. Drink an 8-ounce glass of water every hour, and 1 quart of pure, unsweetened cranberry juice daily. Cranberry juice adds acid to the urine and prevents bacteria from adhering to the lining of the bladder. Eat natural diuretics, such as celery, parsley, and watermelon, but avoid citrus fruits, which upset the body's pH balance. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, carbonated beverages, coffee, chocolate, refined and processed foods, and simple sugars. All these will have an adverse effect on the bladder.

Avoid taking iron supplements until you have healed. Too much iron aids in bacterial growth. Follow the daily guidelines below to promote the healing process.

Most Important

colloidal silver (as directed on label)-a natural antibiotic that destroys bacteria and fungi; promotes healing

garlic (as directed on label)-a natural antibiotic and immune enhancer

vitamin C (4000 to 5000 mg daily in divided doses)-aids the healing process

bioflavonoids (1000 mg)-important in immune function

Also Recommended

a prodophilus formula (as directed on label, on empty stomach)-restores friendly bacteria

calcium (1500 mg)-reduces bladder irritability

magnesium (750 to 1000 mg daily)-balances calcium

potassium (99 mg)-replaces potassium lost as a result of frequent urination vitamin E (600 IU)-combats bacteria

vitamin A (50,000 IU for 2 days, then 25,000 IU for 2 days, then reduce to 5000; do not exceed 8000 IU if you are pregnant)-speeds healing

(For an acute condition, take supplements until your symptoms subside. If symptoms persist, seek the advice of your healthcare provider. For a chronic condition, consult your healthcare provider regarding the duration of treatment.)

Aromatherapy

For the pain that accompanies bladder infections, apply a massage oil of bergamot and lavender or chamomile and a carrier oil (such as safflower oil) to the lower abdomen as needed.

You also might try a hot sitz bath to which you've added a few drops of the essential oils of juniper, sandalwood, or German chamomile.

Ayurvedic Medicine

To lessen the burning sensation that accompanies a bladder infection, Ayurvedic ractitioners advise drinking coriander tea or a coriander-cumin-fennel tea. They also suggest taking a blend of shatavari, guduchi, punarnava, and kamadudha twice daily.

Chiropractic

In cases of chronic cystitis, chiropractic adjustments may be beneficial. Once the nerve interference is corrected by proper alignment, healing can occur. Experts recommend that such chiropractic care be done in conjunction with conventional medical supervision, which may include medication.