How to Get Rid of a Urinary Tract Infection at Home
You may already be able to spot the warning signs of a urinary tract infection, or UTI, if you get them often. The familiar burning, discomfort and constant need to urinate often means only one thing--bacteria in the urinary system are causing a UTI.
You may already be able to spot the warning signs of a urinary tract infection, or UTI, if you get them often. The familiar burning, discomfort and constant need to urinate often means only one thing--bacteria in the urinary system are causing a UTI. And although UTIs typically require a visit to the doctor and a prescription of antibiotics to cure, you may be able to take steps at home to treat your urinary tract infection and remedy painful urination without setting foot in the doctor's office.
Step 1
Guzzle water. The more water you drink, the faster you will wash bacteria out of your urinary tract. According to the Mayo Clinic, your urine will become more diluted, helping to push bacteria out of your system. But don't drink sodas, coffee, anything with caffeine, acidic juices or alcohol until symptoms subside, to help your infection clear up faster.
Step 2
Drink cranberry juice. Cranberry juice naturally helps to flush out the bacteria clogging your urinary tract--so drink as much as you can. There isn't a magic number or dose of cranberry juice; Homeremediesweb.com suggests that you should consume at least 12 to 24 oz. of cranberry juice daily until symptoms subside.
Step 3
Boost your vitamin C consumption. Vitamin C can make your urine more acidic and inhibit the production of bacteria. A daily dose of 1000 mg of vitamin C can help manage recurrent urinary tract infections--but talk to your doctor about your vitamin C intake if she prescribes an antibiotic for you.
Step 4
Take an echinacea supplement. Whether drinking an herbal echinacea tea daily or taking a 300 mg supplement in pill or capsule form, this herb can help to naturally destroy bacteria in your urinary tract.
Step 5
Ask your doctor to call in a prescription for antibiotics. If you have recurring urinary tract infections, your doctor may not need you to come in to be seen. Call and tell him about your symptoms, and ask if he can phone in a prescription for antibiotics for you to pick up at your pharmacy.
warning
A urinary tract infection can quickly spread to the kidneys, causing a more serious infection. Make sure that you seek prompt treatment and see your doctor if symptoms do not subside.