Urinary tract infections, or UTI, is a common occurrence in women. In fact, numbers show that between 10 and 20 percent of females have urinary infections or discomfort at least once annually. There are two important categories of UTI: recurrent cystitis and uncomplicated cystitis. Young women with cystitis become infected by a narrow spectrum of bacteria. E. coli makes up 80 percent of these cases, while Staphylococcus saprophyticus make up between five and 15 percent. On occasion, other microorganisms like klebsiellea and Proteus mirabilis are to blame. Women in Phoenix, Arizona who suffer from recurring UTI can use naturopathic medicine to eliminate the infection.
There are numerous factors that play a role in the development of UTI in women. The chances of urinary infections are increased by sexual intercourse, the use of diaphragms with spermicide (possibly spermicide use on its own), history of recent UTI and delayed post-coital urination. Women who witness painful urination may have either of two acute cystitis:
acute urethritis caused by gonorrhea, chlamydia or herpes
vaginitis caused by trichomonas or candida.
A physical exam, urinalysis and presenting symptoms can point to which of the two are the culprit. A urine culture, vaginal culture and Chlamydia test may also be required.
It's common for postmenopausal women to have frequent infections. This can either be caused by low levels of estrogen, which can cause the vaginal microflora to change and lead to an increased colonization of E. coli, or residual urine after voiding. A vaginal estrogen cream can sometimes be beneficial to these women.
Naturopathic Therapy
Arizona women have the option of taking a naturopathic approach for their urinary infections. Naturopathic medicine has proven to be quite effective for resolving UTI in Phoenix patients. It can also inhibit the recurrence of UTI. The therapeutic approach for UTI has four primary goals:
1. Providing immune support to enhance internal defenses
2. Restore vaginal microflora
3. Promote proper pH levels
4. Inhibit bacteria growth from adhering to the bladder epithelium
It's important to increase urinary flow, which can be accomplished by consuming more liquids. The best options would be water and herbal teas that are related to treatment goals. It's recommended that you consume 64 ounces daily.
Cranberry is another natural approach worth mentioning. Cranberry juice has been a common home remedy for decades. Studies prove that cranberries can effectively reduce UTI in women. One study showed that drinking 16 oz of cranberry juice daily helped 73 percent of infected individuals. It was once believed that the acidification of urine was what enabled cranberries to work effectively. However, recent studies show that cranberries actually reduce E. coli's ability to adhere to the lining of the urethra and bladder.
Herbs have also proven to be an excellent natural remedy for UTI. Uva ursi, or bearberry, is antiseptic, astringent and antibacterial, which makes it powerful against E. coli. It was used in a double-blind study with 57 women who had recurrent bladder infections. After a year, five out of 27 women in the placebo group had recurrences, while none of the 30 women in the uva ursi group had a recurrence.
Pipissewa is another herb that's proven effective in UTI cases. It is a traditional remedy for urinary infections. It has mild antimicrobial properties. Other effective naturopathic remedies include buchu leaf, homeopathy and D-Manose. There are more than 20 homeopathic remedies that can be used for UTI patients. However, they have to be chosen based on the patient's symptoms. The most commonly used homeopathic remedy for UTI is staphysagria.
Naturopathic medicine can be an optimal choice for Phoenix women. It is safe, effective and can resolve UTI quickly without complications. If you are an Arizona resident with recurring UTI, consider consulting with a naturopathic doctor in your area.
