How to Relieve UTI Pain
Topic at a Glance
- UTIs cause pain due to inflammation of the bladder and urethra.
- Early treatment is important to prevent infection from spreading to the kidneys.
- Antibiotics are the primary treatment, but home remedies can help relieve discomfort.
- Drinking fluids and avoiding irritants are some of the ways to reduce symptoms.
It’s clear for some patients when they have a urinary tract infection (UTI). For example, UTI symptoms include a burning sensation or pain while peeing and the urge to go when near to nothing comes out. Urinary tract infections hurt because the lining of your bladder and urethra become inflamed much in the same way that your throat hurts when you get a cold. The increased urge to urinate arises because of the same irritation.
At Urology of Greater Atlanta, our team of expert urologists offers effective UTI treatment and diagnosis. It’s important that treatment starts as early as possible because bladder infections can spread into the kidneys.
How Do You Stop The Burning From a UTI?
Health care professionals treat UTIs with a course of antibiotics. However, there are some home remedies that you can try to relieve the painful symptoms.
Drink plenty of water
Frequent urination will help flush out unwanted bacteria from your bladder. So try drinking water and other non-carbonated, low-sugar fluids on a regular basis.
Staying hydrated can also prevent further bacteria growth.
Empty your bladder
Emptying your bladder can help prevent the further growth of harmful bacteria, especially when you have a bladder infection. So don’t hold it in when you have the urge.
Avoid irritating your bladder
Alcohol, caffeinated drinks, carbonated beverages, and spicy food will irritate your bladder.
Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages are known to increase spasms in your bladder, which can make UTI symptoms worse.
Use a warm compress
When you use a heating pad or hot water bottle on your lower abdomen, it can help minimize pressure on your bladder and reduce abdominal and low back pain or cramping.
Vitamins and herbal remedies
It’s important to know that no herbal remedy has been proven to treat or prevent a UTI. Therefore before trying any of the following, you should first consult with a healthcare professional.
Natural remedies that have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties may help treat UTI symptoms.
One supplement you may wish to try is garlic extract. It has strong anti-inflammatory properties and could help reduce the growth of bacteria, including Escherichia coli (E. coli).
The supplement D-mannose, a naturally occurring sugar found in foods like cranberries and apples, contains anti-bacterial properties, which also can help relieve UTI discomfort.
Changing the pH balance of your urine with supplements such as cranberry extract, unsweetened cranberry juice, or vitamin C may also prohibit the growth of bacteria. These are also a good way to help maintain a healthy urinary tract preventing recurring UTIs.
Wear cotton or loose-fitting clothing
Breathable materials like cotton can help keep your genital area dry and cool. This may also help prevent further bacterial growth.
Contact Us
The team of doctors at Urology of Greater Atlanta can help answer all of your UTI questions and diagnose and treat your UTI symptoms. Call or make an appointment online today for help. We have offices throughout Metro Atlanta, including Griffin, GA.
FAQs About Relieving UTI Pain
Why does a UTI cause pain?
A urinary tract infection causes inflammation in the lining of the bladder and urethra. This irritation leads to symptoms such as burning during urination, frequent urges to urinate, and discomfort in the lower abdomen.
How can I relieve UTI pain at home?
You can help relieve discomfort by drinking plenty of water, emptying your bladder frequently, and using a warm compress on your lower abdomen. Wearing loose-fitting cotton clothing may also help reduce irritation.
Do supplements or natural remedies help with UTI symptoms?
Some supplements, such as cranberry extract, vitamin C, garlic extract, and D-mannose, may help reduce symptoms or support urinary tract health. However, these remedies are not proven to treat UTIs and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
What should I avoid when I have a UTI?
Avoid alcohol, caffeinated drinks, carbonated beverages, and spicy foods, as they can irritate your bladder and worsen symptoms. Wearing loose-fitting cotton clothing may also help reduce irritation.
When should I see a doctor for a UTI?
You should contact a doctor if you suspect a UTI. Early treatment with antibiotics helps prevent the infection from spreading to the kidneys.
