How To Treat and Prevent a Urinary Tract Infection

‍Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) cause 8.1 million visits to health care providers each year–that’s about 22,000 visits in a day, only in the US. While mostly women experience UTIs, men aren’t exempt. 10 in 25 women and 3 in 25 men will experience UTI symptoms at some point in their lives.

Let’s find out how we can decrease this number.

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What Is a UTI?

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can occur in any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. UTIs are caused by bacteria that enter through the urinary tract and multiply, leading to symptoms such as a frequent urge to urinate, pain or burning sensation while urinating, abdominal pain, and blood in the urine. 

UTIs are not something to fear, but left untreated can be dangerous or life-threatening, causing kidney infections. UTIs can be easily managed with antibiotics and over the counter pain medications, along with other natural remedies. At The Lanby, our goal is to educate not just on how to treat UTIs, but how to prevent them long-term. 

What Are the Causes and Symptoms of a UTI?

Causes of UTIs

1. Bladder Infection: The most common cause of a UTI is a bacterial infection caused by Escherichia coli found in the urinary tract. E. coli typically lives in our intestines and aids in digesting food. UTIs occur when bacteria from the gut enters the urinary tract and grows there. Sexual intercourse is a common cause of urinary infections due to the friction caused during sexual activity. Bacteria is pushed toward the urethra, increasing the risk of a UTI. 
2. Body changes in women (Menopause): As estrogen drops as a result of menopause, UTIs can occur due to the thinning of vaginal tissue, making the tissue more prone to infection. Recurrent urinary tract infections occur in 55% of postmenopausal women, compared to 19-36% in younger females. 
3. Immune System: As we age, our immune systems become less responsive. Unfortunately, this means that since symptoms might not be so obvious, an infection can quickly get worse before the immune system has a chance to react. 
4. Birth Control: Like antibiotics, hormonal birth control methods, like the pill—as well as diaphragms, spermicides, or non-lubricated condoms—can destroy the good bacteria in your body. This can disrupt the natural balance and pH of the vagina, causing overgrowth of the bad bacteria—which can then increase your risk of UTI. 

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Symptoms of UTIs

1. Burning of the urethra (stings when you pee): If you have a known UTI, we recommend medication ASAP. If you are a patient who is for some reason unable to receive medicine or declines medication, AZO is an OTC management option. At The Lanby, we work with members to dig into potential underlying causes for UTI in order to better prevent a recurrence.
2. Increased frequency of urination, without passing much urine: If you feel the need for frequent urination, especially after having just gone, that is a sign that you may have a UTI, and you should contact a healthcare professional immediately.
3. Pelvic pain in women or rectal pain in men: As the infection escalates, pelvic or rectal pain may also occur. Incorporate a heating pad on the pelvis or rectum to relieve pain and discomfort. 
4. Bloody or cloudy urine: If you notice blood in your urine, seek medical advice as soon as possible.

UTI Treatments

When a UTI occurs, the process to treat it is fairly straight-foward. The issue lies when a UTI is left untreated or not treated in time, which is when you run the risk of pyelonephritis (a kidney infection) and sepsis (the body's extreme response to an infection). 

Antibiotics 

The type of antibiotic treatment usually depends on which part of the urinary tract is involved. Lower urinary tract infections can usually be treated with oral antibiotics, while upper tract UTIs require intravenous antibiotics. 

This course of antibiotics will heal the UTI in 7-10 days. Typically, a urine culture is needed to identify the type of bacteria causing the infection and prescribe the appropriate antibiotic protocol. 

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Antibiotic Resistance

Although antibiotics are the most effective standard treatment method, misuse or abuse of these medications can lead to antibiotic resistance. When certain antibiotics are repeatedly prescribed, the bad bacteria they target can become resistant to them. At least 2 million people per year in the US alone develop antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Be sure to work with a trusted physician to determine the best course of action.

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Home Remedies 

While most UTIs must be treated with medication, there are a some infections that fall under uncomplicated UTIs, meaning, they may be able to be treated without antibiotics. 

An uncomplicated UTI is an infection in the lower urinary tract, the bladder and urethra. A complicated UTI occurs when the infection extends beyond the bladder and into the kidneys, leading to more serious conditions such as a kidney infection. 

Let’s look at the different home approaches that can work with an uncomplicated UTI:

• Lots of water: No—we don’t just mean one bottle. Hydration is key. You’ll want to drink so much that you are constantly running to the bathroom. Plenty of water will continue to flush out the harmful bacteria. We recommend 6-8 glasses, per day, minimum. 
• Cranberry juice:  Although cranberry products cannot cure a UTI, there is a chemical, A-type proanthocyanidins (PACs), in cranberries that may prevent bacteria from attaching to the lining of your bladder. This can be helpful for preventing UTIs in the future. 

We recommend finding an OTC cranberry supplement or unsweetened cranberry juice, as many  juices typically contain high grams of sugar and other additives. 

• Probiotics: Specifically, probiotics from the Lactobacilli family are known to be helpful in preventing recurrent UTIs. 
• Vitamin C: There is sufficient evidence that Vitamin C intake can decrease your risk of developing a UTI. Contact your physician to learn how much Vitamin C to take and how often you should be taking it. 
• D-Mannose: Studies show that monosaccharide, also known as a simple sugar naturally found in apples, oranges, and peaches, as well as blueberries and cranberries, is commonly known to reduce the risk of UTIs. 
• Garlic Extract: This natural remedy contains antibacterial properties shown to help aid in a multitude of bacterial infections. Based on studies, 600-1,200 mg of garlic extract can be used daily to aid in UTI symptoms. 

How to Prevent a UTI 

UTI prevention is equally important as UTI treatments. While it’s useful to know how to treat a UTI, it is best to learn how to get to the root cause of why these infections are happening and how to stop them from occurring in the future.

1. Drinking enough water: Flush bacteria out of your urethra as much as possible.
2. Check your birth control method: Check with your physician or wellness advisor regarding how your birth control may be affecting your pH. If you’re curious about exploring your birth control options, join the club. 
3. Personal hygiene: Shower regularly with warm water and avoid using soap in the genital area to ensure you do not disrupt your body's natural pH. Use the bathroom ideally before and after sexual intercourse.
4. Avoid or limit foods and drinks that can irritate: Avoid high sugars and processed foods. At the Lanby, we recommend a balanced plate lifestyle. If you aren’t a member, join The Lanby to receive support from your Wellness Advisor on your specific dietary needs. 
5. Avoid holding in your pee for too long: Do your business and do it quickly. When you gotta go, go. This simple step will help to reduce the risk factors & side effects. 

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Whether you’re currently experiencing a UTI or are looking to prevent recurrent UTIs, there is no need to panic. There are many treatment options, natural or clinical, and we are here to assist. 

We aim to heal your current urinary tract infection, but our long-term goal is to ensure you avoid these infections in the future. Join The Lanby or book a consult call to learn more about our integrative approach to primary care.