Most of the time, cystitis is usually caused by a urine infection and its symptoms can be very painful and annoying. It can even become a serious health problem if the infection reaches the kidneys .
Cystitis symptoms can also appear as a reaction to certain medications, radiation therapy, or potential irritants, such as prolonged catheter use. In turn, it can also appear as a complication of another disease.
Symptoms of cystitis
Cystitis or inflammation of the bladder has symptoms that are very characteristic and you can easily identify them. They are similar to those of urine infection, as it can sometimes be caused by this reason. The main symptoms of cystitis are:
- Burning sensation when urinating.
- Constant need to urinate and do it in small amounts.
- Cloudy urine with a strong odor.
- Blood in the urine.
- Shooting pains in the lower abdomen.
Risk factor’s
Some people are more prone to recurrent urinary tract infection and cystitis, and women fall into that group. One reason is because their urethra is shorter, so bacteria must travel a shorter distance to reach the bladder.
Women at increased risk for urinary tract infection are those who:
- They are sexually active.
- Are pregnant
- They use certain contraceptives, such as diaphragms.
- Have experienced menopause.
Home remedies for cystitis
The following home remedies are part of popular wisdom and are not scientifically based, therefore they are not medically recommended. But it can help us alleviate the symptoms of cystitis.
- Lemon
A glass of warm water with lemon on an empty stomach helps reduce the discomfort of cystitis. Although its flavor is not very pleasant due to its acidic taste, lemon is an ingredient with antiviral, antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that contribute to the health of the kidney system and prevent the bacteria that cause this infection from surviving on the walls of the urethra.
To drink it, it is recommended to put the freshly squeezed juice of half a lemon or a whole lemon in a large glass of warm water. You can add a fresh mint leaf. Take it right after waking up.
- Radishes
Radish has antibiotic and diuretic properties that are quite effective in fighting cystitis and expelling bacteria through urine. Its regular consumption in the diet is recommended as a prevention method, especially for those people who usually have recurrent episodes of this infection.
To use it, half a cup of its juice must be extracted and taken at least three times a day .
- Blueberries
Cranberry juice is an excellent supplement to prevent and treat cystitis . According to data found in medical libraries, this ingredient has been used throughout history as a natural treatment against different types of urinary infections.
Among its many benefits, we can highlight that it provides the body with nutrients that prevent bacteria from adhering to the cells that line the urinary tract.
To drink it, we blend half a cup of blueberries with half a glass of water . Take it in the morning for ten days.
- Moringa
It is a plant that has many culinary and medicinal uses. It is rich in vitamins and minerals and very effective in cases of malnutrition . To relieve cystitis, you can prepare a juice with three cups of moringa and half a cup of coconut water. Taking it up to 4 times a day can offer amazing results.
- Spinach
Spinach is one of the most nutritious green vegetables for its large amount of iron, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to fight any disease. It is recommended to consume raw, in salads or in smoothies.
To prepare the smoothie, we must blend 6 spinach leaves with 100 ml of water . If we want we can add two carrots to enhance the flavor.
- Birch
Birch is a plant that has antibacterial properties that helps relieve the discomfort of cystitis. Drinking an infusion with birch leaves would help to expel the invading agents through the urine, since it is a natural diuretic.
To prepare the infusion, bring a cup of water to a boil and, when it boils, add two tablespoons of birch. Then, let it sit for 10 minutes to consume it at room temperature.
- Parsley
Parsley is one of the best herbs for maintaining good urinary health because it helps eliminate pathogens through urine, and, in turn, supports kidney function.
To get the benefits of parsley, you simply have to boil a handful of leaves in two cups of water (500 ml) . Let stand, filter and drink twice a day.
- Barley
Barley water has multiple benefits attributed to its high content of fiber , antioxidants, and essential amino acids, which may even lower blood sugar levels . In addition, it has a very powerful diuretic effect that facilitates the expulsion of liquids and the cleaning of the urinary tract.
To prepare barley water you need 1 liter of water and half a cup of barley grains (100 g). Cook 45 minutes over low heat. Let it cool, strain and drink twice a day.
Other recommendations
You can also take certain steps to ease the symptoms of cystitis:
- Use warm compresseson the lower abdomen to relieve and minimize the sensation of pressure and pain in the area.
- Stay well hydrated and avoid coffee,alcohol, caffeinated sodas, and spicy foods until the infection clears. These products could irritate the bladder and aggravate the condition.
- Take a sitz bathin the tub for 15-20 minutes to ease discomfort from cystitis.
Finally, do not forget to consult your doctor when the bladder infection is something recurrent, he can help you and develop a strategy to reduce the relapses and discomfort caused by cystitis.
