9 home remedies for cystitis

Cystitis is a urinary tract infection that causes inflammation of the bladder. It may resolve without treatment, although treatment may be necessary when severe and bothersome symptoms or more severe cases occur.

Read more: 9 home remedies for cystitis

Cystitis—home remedies? Yes, they exist. In this article, we explain cystitis, its symptoms and causes, and the most effective home remedies for cystitis.

What is cystitis?

Cystitis is an infection of the bladder (a part of the lower urinary tract).

It usually occurs when bacteria that usually live harmlessly in the intestine or on the skin penetrate and attach themselves to the lining of the bladder or urethra. These bacteria cause inflammation and irritation in the area.

Although cystitis can affect anyone, women are more prone to it because their urethra is shorter and closer to the anus, so they enter the bladder more easily.

Cystitis can be acute (sudden onset) or interstitial (longer-term, chronic cystitis).

Cystitis: common symptoms

The symptoms of cystitis vary according to the type of cystitis. The most common are:

• More frequent urination.
• Dark or cloudy urine.
• Strong-smelling urine.
• Burning, stinging or pain when urinating.
• Pain in the lower stomach.
• Urgent need to urinate constantly.
• General weakness, tiredness or pain.

Cystitis: causes you need to know about

Escherichia coli bacteria usually cause acute cystitis (the most common), although other bacteria such as enterococci, Group B Streptococci, and Klebsiella pneumonia, among others, may also be present.

Menopausal women are more likely to suffer from cystitis, as oestrogen levels are lowered and the lining of the urethra thins. Another problem we often encounter during the menopause is deterioration or ageing of the skin, bones and joints. For this, organic silica can be your great ally. Its excellent absorption helps improve tissue elasticity, strengthens brittle nails, keeps hair healthy and stronger and helps prevent hair loss. Its antioxidant properties help delay cellular ageing. Living Silica Collagen Booster combines the two best-assimilated and most effective types of silicon on the market: orthosilicic acid and monomethylsilanotriol, making it an excellent companion during this stage.

In men, a common cause of cystitis can be problems that restrict normal urine flow, such as an enlarged prostate.

Other causes of cystitis:

• Constipation: if faeces remain too long in the colon, they will exert increased pressure on the bladder, which causes abdominal pain and encourages bacterial growth and the possibility of developing cystitis.
• Poor hygiene: not cleaning your genitals properly after urinating or wearing the same underwear can increase your chances of getting a UTI.
• Not urinating on time: It is important to urinate when the need arises and not to hold the urge, i.e. to eliminate waste materials in time. Holding back for long periods of time without urinating promotes the growth of bacteria.
• Other diseases: the presence of kidney stones, diseases such as diabetes, as well as certain medications taken in excess, could lead to irritation or inflammation of the bladder and subsequent infection.

How to get rid of cystitis as quickly as possible?

If acute cystitis appears suddenly, its symptoms usually disappear in a few days. In this case, applying some of the following home remedies for cystitis is advisable.

In the case of interstitial or chronic cystitis or when more severe symptoms are present, we recommend that you see your doctor for further diagnosis.

If you want to avoid cystitis or repeated episodes, the preventive measures listed at the end of this article will greatly help in any cystitis.

9 Home remedies for cystitis [the most effective].

1—Cranberries: They can be taken as a supplement, natural, or in concentrated juice. Their active ingredient and vitamin C will help prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder. A sufficient quantity is necessary to do this.

2- Avoid alcohol, citrus fruits and coffee: these can irritate the bladder and aggravate symptoms. Sugary drinks should also be eliminated, as they serve as food for the bacteria that cause the infection, making it more difficult to eliminate them.

3—Sodium bicarbonate: This helps modify the acidity levels of urine, which reduces pain. To take it, mix water with baking soda. This alkaline solution will help prevent bacteria from spreading.

4- Adequate diet for cystitis: avoid acidic foods (citrus fruits, tomatoes, spicy foods, sweeteners…). Increase your intake of lean protein, vegetables, whole grains and non-citrus fruit.

5- Hydrate properly: Although it is very important to stay hydrated, some people suffering from cystitis may find their symptoms aggravated if they drink excessive fluids, so it is essential to find the right balance. Try to drink enough water during the day and cut back near evening.

6—Probiotics: The combination of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1® and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14 was as useful and effective as antibiotics in treating cystitis.

7—Acupuncture: This technique helps to achieve well-being and overall health. It involves placing fine needles at specific points on the body to restore balance and promote the natural healing process. It is common for people with chronic cystitis to experience relief after receiving acupuncture sessions. Acupuncture can be an alternative therapy to help reduce pain, inflammation, and bladder tenderness.

8—Exercising the pelvic floor: By increasing the strength of the pelvic floor, you can relieve the discomfort associated with chronic cystitis. Performing pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) involves contracting and relaxing the pelvic muscles, which helps reduce pain and improve bladder control.

9- Proanthocyanidins: these polyphenolic compounds have been linked to ‘anti-adhesive’ effectiveness in reducing the adhesion of the main cystitis-causing bacteria, Escherichia coli, to the walls of the urinary tract. The same is true of D-Mannose, a type of sugar found in cranberries and commonly used to treat cystitis (it can be taken in supplement form).

Which homemade drink is good for cystitis?

Cranberry juice concentrate is the most effective home remedy. It is easy to find, simple, and effective, thanks to its powerful antioxidant effect.

How to prevent cystitis?

In many cases, cystitis cannot be prevented in advance. However, some measures can help:

• Use fragrance-free, pH-neutral soaps.
• Maintain proper genital hygiene after sex.
• Avoid tight underwear and trousers.
• Use underwear made of natural fabrics such as organic cotton.
• Emptying the bladder by urinating completely.
• Wipe from front to back.
• Not being able to hold back the urge to urinate.
• Avoid using tampons as much as possible.

If you have any doubts about obtaining a correct diagnosis, we recommend that you consult a trusted health professional beforehand about your specific case.

Relieving the symptoms of cystitis is possible.

Cystitis, or urinary tract infection (commonly known as UTI), is a common health problem that can cause uncomfortable symptoms for people of all ages.

In addition to antibiotics as a general pharmacological treatment for UTIs, in this article we have discussed 9 effective home remedies for cystitis (without side effects). In addition, there are two other aspects to consider: check your contraceptive method (many of them contribute to the development of cystitis, such as diaphragms or spermicides) and consider the use of vaginal oestrogens in the case of post-menopausal women, as this will help reduce the frequency of recurrent urinary tract infections.