Post by Lαrα on Oct 7, 2013 2:21:37 GMT -8
Ive done some interesting reading this morning on treating bladder infections so I'll share what ive found...
We all know that doctors will be very quick to prescribe an antibiotic as this is mostly the only solution to an infection that they will use...however..antibiotics may eliminate the infection at that time but they don't solve the underlying problem...its a merry go round constantly.
How useful is cranberry?
Cranberry juice is traditionally used as a home remedy for assisting in the prevention of Urinary Tract Infections, many people take cranberry as either a juice drink or tablets but still this does not offer an efficient solution.
Mutated strains of organisms cause continuous problems and are often caused by the regular use of antibiotics over time...and now these organisms are often not responding well to antibiotocs or cranberry juice.
Cranberry juice, once it is digested and “burned” by the body, leaves an acidic ash or residue - which means it is creating more of an acidic environment for the organism. In other words, it feeds the organism, causing it to stop the pain, but not really fixing the problem at it’s core.
Still....that said..cranberry taken on a regular basis may still help prevent infections but not as effectively as we believe.....Studies have shown that the tablet form is more effective! Certain sugars and a type of enzyme called flavanol found in cranberries have been thought to prevent infections by keeping bacteria from clinging to cells in the urinary tract/bladder wall.
Though i think the tablet form could still be a useful supplement it should probably not be relied upon as a truly effective form of urinary tract infection prevention for us Spinal Cord Injured peeps on its own.
I do believe that we need to adopt a much more proactive regime and lifestyle to truly try to combat recurrent infections and find what works for us individually.
On an important note..do not drink cranberry juice whilst taking warfarin as it can make blood even more thinner than it should be.
So what about Lemon juice?
It sounds like reducing the amount of acid in the body is a good start to creating a healthier bladder environment....So as we already know, drink lots and lots of water to flush an infection out. Adding lemon or lime juice or liquid minerals to water can help to alkalize the water.
I have read that drinking warm water at the start of the day with half a squeezed lemon is a good cleanser for the bladder and will help rid the bladder of toxins.
Probiotics
If you have been needing regular antibiotics for regular infections, then it may be an idea to take some probiotics, because the antibiotics kill all these beneficial bacteria along with your infection. Probiotics can help put some of that healthy bacteria back!
Adrenals
Your adrenals are small organs that sit on top of your kidneys and if the urinary system is stressed, often the adrenals are also. Taking supplements that support your adrenals and help with stress can also be beneficial. B vitamins fall into this category as to adaptagenic herbs such as Suma, Astragalus, Ashwagandha, and Eleuthero.
Herbs
Some herbs have diuretic properties and can help to flush the bladder as well to help remove the infection. Herbs such as parsley, dandelion, juniper berries and uva ursi all have diuretic effects and will make you urinate more as they push the urine, the acid and infection out. It is often optimum to take one of these while drinking all that water so that your body has a fresh supply of clean water to help flush with.
Bicarb of Soda (this has worked for me and was recommended by my doc!)
You can also make your urine less acidic by drinking half a glass of water with one teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) dissolved in it, two to three times a day.
Avoid drinking other soda drinks/pop, tea, coffee and alcohol..but we mostly know this already.
Keep very clean
Also along my reading different sources..reference is made to washing around your anus after a bowel movement and washing your genetal area before sexual intercourse and urinating within 15 mins after...
Spicey Foods
Whether you top your nachos with jalapeños, sprinkle your pizza with red pepper flakes, or love your spicey curries, you really should avoid the spice when you have a UTI. Spicy foods are known to cause bladder irritation and worsen UTI symptoms, so reduce the spice and opt for blander choices while you're treating your urinary tract infection.
Other fruits
Fruit juices such as grapefruit and orange are acidic and can irritate your bladder. They are best avoided if you have regular UTIs or an overactive bladder.
Peroxide bladder flushes
Il be honest in saying that i could not find a really good source of information on peroxide bladder flushes that goes into the pros and cons (please add in a reply if anyone has a reliable and suitable source please) I would therefor discuss this option with your urologist and discuss all advantages and any complications with him/her.
Avoid leaving residue urine sitting in the bladder
Lastly i just wanted mention the importance of managing an effective way of emptying your bladder...catheter or void regular..ensuring that you are not retaining to an unhealthy level. If your bladder retains 150ml of urine or more after voiding, it's highly recommended that you catheterize in order to clear out the bladder completely. Residue urine is growing grounds for bacteria which is why it's important to keep your bladder emptied to help prevent urinary tract infections.
Feel free to add any tips that you find work for you 
