What is a Bladder Infection or Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?
A bladder infection, urinary tract infection (UTI), or cystitis means bladder inflammation. A one-off infection is certainly nothing to worry about. If you have one or more bladder infections yearly, you want to be proactive about preventing them and treating the root cause of your susceptibility to them. Antibiotic use sets you up for more significant problems like antibiotic-resistant bacteria and gut and immune system problems. Bladder infections are common in pregnant and elderly women. They also happen after a period of frequent intercourse, also called Honeymoon Cystitis. Emptying the bladder immediately after intercourse will sometimes help prevent this type of urinary tract infection.
What are the Symptoms of a Bladder Infection or Urinary Tract Infection?
The symptoms of a bladder infection include:
- Burning when you pee
- Frequent peeing
- Painful peeing
- Blood in the urine (may not be visible to your naked eye)
- Bladder leaking
- Fever (sometimes)
- Back pain (sometimes)
- Abdominal pain (sometimes)
How Do You Test for a Urinary Tract Infection?
The tests for a UTI include:
- Urinalysis – this is a quick test that can be done to screen for red blood cells, white blood cells and the presence of certain types of bacteria in the urine via a test called nitrites
- Urine Culture & Sensitivity – this test is used to grow the offending bacteria in a lab and test to see which antibiotics will work to defeat it. The test results take about 48 hours.
What are Natural Remedies for a UTI?
- Initial treatment for a bladder infection may include anti-microbial herbs like Barosma, Uva-ursi, Goldenseal and Cranberry
- Treating the underlying susceptibility to UTIs may involve treatment with NAG, corn silk, and cranberry, removal of food sensitivities and restoration of probiotic bacteria
- Balance hormones. Your hormones play a critical role in how well your immune system works. They also help keep hormone-responsive tissues like the urethra healthy.
What if a Bladder or Urinary Tract Infection is Left Untreated?
If it’s a low-grade infection, possibly nothing. However, untreated bladder infections can progress upward into the kidneys, causing a kidney infection. This can be pretty serious and can even permanently damage your kidneys. If you suspect that you may have a bladder infection, you should always see your medical doctor or your naturopathic doctor.
Book an appointment here or call the office for more information at 416-481-0222.
Authored by Dr. Pamela Frank, BSc, ND
Dr. Pamela Frank has been in practice as a naturopathic doctor for over 26 years. Since 1999, she has earned acclaim as a leading naturopath in Toronto, amassing multiple awards.
Dr. Pamela has a special interest in addressing hormone-related complexities, including but not limited to PCOS, endometriosis, acne, hair loss, weight management, thyroid issues, and fertility.
Residing in Toronto with her family and loyal companion, Dolly the rescue dog, Dr. Pamela seamlessly combines her professional commitment with a diverse range of interests.
Beyond her clinical endeavours, she actively engages in kickboxing, leadership roles within Scout Groups, yoga practice, podcasting, and outdoor pursuits such as backcountry camping.
Dr. Pamela’s comprehensive approach reflects not only her dedication to optimal health but also her passion for continual personal and professional growth.
UTI and Natural Medicine Research
Probiotics and UTI’s
Increasing the amount of ‘good’ bacteria through probiotic administration may help prevent urinary tract infections. Lactobacilli may be especially helpful in women with recurrent UTIs and in those with prolonged antibiotic use.
Source: Recurrent urinary tract infections in women: How promising is the use of probiotics? Indian J Med Microbiol. 2017 Jul-Sep;35(3):347-354