Feeling pain when urinating? foul-smelling urine? cramps in the lower abdomen or lower back? Well, sounds like you might have a bladder infection. This is the most common type of urinary tract infection (UTI). The infection is caused by bacteria and is more prone to women since their urethra is short and the bacteria can easily move in it. That is also why more women have bladder infection during pregnancy.
Bladder infections can be caused by having sex, using tampons, wiping from back to front in the bathroom, estrogen reduction is menopause, etc.
Once you suspect about having a bladder infection, you have to take a urinalysis to confirm it. After you get diagnosed, the doctor will prescribe you antibiotics to kill the bacteria. If you haven’t gone to the doctor and would like to decrease the symptoms. This is some over the counter bladder infection medication that will help you feel better:
Phenazopyridine (Pyridium)
This one is the most recommended over the counter bladder infection medication from pharmacists and doctors. It is a local anesthetic that relieves the burning/pain that is so common in the urinary tract infections, it also helps with the urgency to urine. Keep in mind that it can turn your urine in red or orange color.
Methenamine (Hiprex)
If you suffer from recurring bladder infections, this one is for you. It prevents the infection from coming back. It also helps the urine to become more acid (bacteria hates acid urine). Avoid taking it if you have kidney disease, liver disease or if you are pregnant. It is recommended to be taken with cranberry juice since this fruit prevents the bacteria from attaching to the urinary tract.
Acetaminophen
This one helps to relieve the cramps of the lower abdomen and the lower back. Avoid overusing it since it can cause liver damage.
Sodium Salicylate
It is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that relieves pain and inflammation. It is typically formulated with Methenamine.
Ibuprofen
A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that also helps to relieve the pain. Avoid overusing it since it can increase the risk of stroke. It can cause kidney damage and cause stomach ulcers.
Here are some natural remedies that will also help you feel better and prevent bladder infection from coming back.
- Urinate before and after sex.
- Drink lots of water.
- Drink cranberry juice.
- Take probiotics.
- Wipe your genitals from front to back.
- Don’t use vaginal douches.
When you start feeling the first symptoms, that’s when you have to start taking the medication, the sooner you start the faster the infection will go away. Take care well of yourself and your body will thank you for it.
