Urinary Tract Infection ( UTI )

                                      UTIs are also known as cystitis, they affect the bladder but may also affect the kidneys, the tubes that carry urine to the bladder ( ureters ) and the tube through

            Common symptoms;

n      Urgency, even when bladder is not full

n      Urination is accompanied by pain or burning and in some cases small amounts of blood

n      Low grade fever

n      Ache in lower back

                                   Most UTIs are caused by E.coli bacteria and Chlamydia, a sexually transmitted organism. Women are more prone because the female urethra is shorter then males, and its’ location provide a convenient entry way for bacteria.

                                    Antibiotic therapy may be required to help with bacterial UTIs, but dietary approaches can also help speed up the healing and prevent recurrences.

n      Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily, this will help flush out infectious material

n      Avoid coffee, tea, colas and alcoholic drinks, these will increase bladder irritation

n      Cranberry juice is a perfect remedy. Cranberries contain substances that speed up the elimination of bacteria

n      Vitamin C, this helps strengthen the immune system, calcium may reduce bladder irritability

n      Consume yoghurts, these contain friendly bacteria that helps in the growth of good flora in the body

                                    Hygiene can also help in avoiding recurrences of UTIs;

n      Wear loose-fitting cotton underwear

n      Avoid vaginal deodorants

n      Urinate and drink a glass of water before sexual intercourse and make sure you urinate within an hour after to flush out urinary tract

n      If you use a diaphragm, make sure it fits correctly, if it’s to large this can irritate the urethra and bladder

n      After bowel movements wipe from front to back, this helps reduce the risk of transmitting intestinal bacteria to the urethra

                         If symptoms persist please visit your doctor, he may prescribe antibiotics to try and get rid of the infection…….

                           I hope this helps…………