Cystitis

Symptoms of Cystitis


Symptoms of cystitis include the following:

	Burning sensations or pain while passing urine.
	A strong, persistent urge to urinate.
	Increased frequency of urination with the release of only a small quantity of urine.
	Dark, cloudy, and foul-smelling urine often containing traces of blood.
	Pain directly above the pubic bone, in the lower back, or in the lower abdomen.
	Low-grade fever.
	Children may experience weakness, fatigue, irritability, reduced appetite, and nausea.
	Elderly women may experience fatigue, falls, confusion, or fever.

The above symptoms may also indicate other ailments such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like gonorrhea and Chlamydia, thrush (candidiasis), urethritis (inflammation of the urethra), prostritis (inflammation of the prostate gland in men) or allergic reaction to perfumed personal hygiene products. Consult your doctor before using any of the natural cures that are mentioned below to treat cystitis.

It is very important to treat bladder infection of any kind because an untreated infection can lead to potentially serious complications such as acute renal failure and complicated UTI (pyelonephritis).

Natural Cures

Several immune-building natural products can be used to increase the resistance power of the body against infections, including bladder infections like cystitis. Prevention is always better than cure, but if you contract cystitis you can use a few natural remedies to alleviate the discomfort and possibly heal faster.

Cranberry

Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and are popularly used to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections. Numerous studies demonstrate the effectiveness of cranberries in preventing urinary tract infections because they are successful in reducing the amount of bacteria that is present in the bladder and urethra. Pure cranberry juice is very sour and most commercial brands contain natural or artificial sweeteners.

Here is the suggested dosage of cranberry that should be consumed to prevent a urinary tract infection or to expedite the healing process after contracting a urinary tract infection:

	Juice: At least three fluid ounces of pure juice each day, or about ten ounces of cranberry juice cocktail
	Capsules: 300 milligrams to 400 milligrams consumed six times each day
	Fresh or frozen cranberries: One and one half ounces each day

Corn silk (Zae mays)

Corn silk refers to the silken threads or stamens of corn cobs. It has diuretic, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, tonic, and analgesic properties. Corn silk is often used as a remedy for cystitis, stones, bladder irritation, edema, and gonorrhea. Corn silk should be used to complement other medication rather than as a primary treatment for curing cystitis.

	Create an infusion by pouring one cup of boiling water onto two teaspoons of dried corn silk. Leave this mixture to steep for 10-15 minutes. Strain and consume this tea three times each day.
	Herbal corn silk tincture can be used to cure cystitis. Consume three milliliters (approximately 50 drops) three times each day until the infection subsides.
	Diet and tips

	Place a heating pad over the lower abdomen to alleviate pain and discomfort that is caused by cystitis.
	Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, clear soups, broths, non-acidic fruit and vegetable juices, yogurt smoothies, and tender coconut water.
	Avoid coffee, alcohol, sugary soft drinks, citrus juices, and spicy foods until the condition improves.
	After using the toilet, wipe from front to back instead of from back to front. Do not control the urge to urinate because unnecessary pressure on the bladder can increase the risk of cystitis.
	Avoid sexual intercourse until the infection has cleared. As a preventive measure, urinate immediately after having sexual intercourse to expel the bacteria that may have been introduced during sex.

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