Cystitis - How to beat it.

Almost every girl I know has suffered from a bout of mild or severe cystitis as some stage in their life.  Men can get it too but it is much less common.  Here is some more information and my TOP TEN TIPS  for healing it.

What is Cystitis?

Cystitis is an infection or irritation which causes inflammation of the lining of the bladder. It causes a burning/stinging feeling during urination, a throbbing sensation and cloudy or bloody urine. It can be very uncomfortable and sometimes very painful. It is often referred to as 'honeymooners' cystitis as it often comes with the onset of a new relationship or in the 'good old days' directly after marriage.

It occurs when vaginal bacteria or bacteria which has been introduced to the vagina enters the urethra and gets forced higher than usual.  This can aggravate the bladder lining and cause irritation or infection.  It can either cause a gentle discomfort which passes in a day or in some cases severe pain and bleeding which lasts for an extended period, sometimes with fever and weakness. 

 

What to do if you think you have cystitis?

1. Cranberry extract: This can help to ease the symptoms and clear the bladder, avoid sweet cranberry juices which usually have very little cranberry in them and buy a cranberry extract from your health food shop.

2. D-Mannose:  This is an excellent remedy, it is a monosaccharide which comes from tree bark and many sufferers have instant relief with this supplement.  This is very popular with frequent sufferers.  Again, you can find this in your health food shop.

3. Drink lots of fluid:  This helps to clear the bladder and will relieve symptoms. Choose water or herbal teas rather than sweet juices which will raise your blood sugar and are not suitable to drink all day.

4. Vitamin C:  Any infection in the body will heal more quickly if you boost your body's detoxification abilities.  Vitamin C will help your immune system and give you a chance of healing faster.

5.  Empty your bladder after intercourse: This flushes the urethra and can prevent bacteria from causing problems.

6. Eat Well.  Anything will heal more quickly if you eat lots of whole foods and have a full profile of vitamins and minerals.  Although you may feel like reaching for sugar or ''stodgy' foods when you feel in pain, they will not help you get better. 

7. Rest.  Your body cannot heal if you continue to race around.  Take time to rest and relax and if you are in pain then be as calm as possible.

8. Hot Water Bottle:  If you are in the acute stage and are suffering a lot then a hot water bottle can help to soothe the pain by relaxing the throbbing contractions that can sometimes occur.

9. Salt Water Bath:  A bath with natural rock sea salt can ease the pain with the soothing warm water and sterilise and clean the area at the same time.  This often gives instant relief.

10. Antibiotics? If the infection is very bad and none of these remedies work then you may choose to take antibiotics prescribed by your GP.  They can be effective on some very resistant infections, but should only be used as a last resort as they negatively impact your body's flora and can lead to other problems such as thrush.  If you suffer from frequent infections then finding a natural method that works for you is vital to avoid the damage of regular antibiotic use.

I hope this helps, always try to go the natural route.


Josie.


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