Most women have had at least one urinary tract infection (UTI) in their lives. Symptoms include burning with urination, frequency and urgency, and a constant sensation of needing to urinate.
Bladder infection, or cystitis, is one of the most common women’s health problems. There are many factors that contribute to this condition. These infections are caused by a bacteria, most commonly E. Coli. If left untreated, infections can work their way up to the kidneys which is an automatic trip to the hospital. Fortunately, this only happens 10% of the time.
As far as treatment goes, antibiotics are usually prescribed and they work well. But antibiotics can also suppress the immune system, which may have been the problem that caused the UTI in the first place.
The other thing antibiotics can do is destroy the “friendly” bacteria (probiotics) in the digestive tract that again is vital in strengthening the immune system. These friendly bacteria have other properties such as synthesizing vitamins and enzymes, producing antibacterial substances that fight disease-causing bacteria, and they help recycle estrogen (which can minimize menopause symptoms).
An occasional urinary tract infection is not a problem. But when women start having a UTI every 2-3 months or more often, then it’s a chronic problem. This is when you need to rule out certain causes of the underlying issue. Diabetes, as well as asthma, chemical sensitivity, multiple food allergies, yeast overgrowth, constipation, poor diet (too much sugar, carbs, caffeine), fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue may all be associated with chronic UTI’s. Other factors that contribute to UTI’s include having frequent sex (honeymoon cystitis), not wiping from front to back, dehydration, uterine prolapse, hormonal changes, certain contraceptives and hypothyroidism.
There are many alternative modalities that work well. The reason I prefer these treatments is because they address the underlying issues. Herbal remedies, homeopathy, and dietary changes can enhance and strengthen the immune system and restore the bodies natural healing capacities.
It’s best to work with a practitioner trained in these type of therapies to identify and prevent the reoccurrence of UTI’s and restore the body back to balance.
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