The urinary tract consists of the kidney, ureters, bladder and the urethra. If any of these get infected, it is known as the urinary tract infection or UTI. Children and adults can get this infection, but women are more prone to get it.

In the urinary tract, the bacteria usually infect the bladder. This is the most common condition. The urethra which carries the urine from the bladder to outside of the body gets infected and carries the infection to the bladder. If the bacteria reach the kidney, it is a serious condition.

The causes for this can be genetic. The reason that women are more likely to suffer from urinary tract infection is due to the closeness of the urethra to the anus in women. The bacteria from the anus spread to the urethra and are carried to the bladder. The most common bacteria are the gastrointestinal bacteria called E. coli which resides in the colon. Also the length of the urethra is short, thereby moving the germs to the bladder quickly and easily. Catheters and diaphragm also are sources of infection. Pregnant women, people with kidney stones, people suffering from diabetes and people with low immunity are more prone to UTI. Dehydration is also a cause for urinary tract infection.

The symptoms experienced are pain, constant urge to urinate, burning sensation while urinating, cloudy urine, blood in urine, foul smelling urine and pelvic pain. If the bacteria reach the upper urinary tract, symptoms like nausea, vomiting, chills and fever maybe present. In children, loss of appetite and irritability is noticed.

Doctors usually prescribe antibiotics after checking the urine sample. Some simple home remedies can help prevent and treat UTI. Some of the home remedies are as follows

1. Water: Water helps to flush out all toxins from the body. It keeps you hydrated.

2. Cranberry Juice: Cranberry juice is very beneficial is treating urinary tract infections. It has properties by which it prevents the bacteria to cling to the cells.

3. Blueberry: Blueberries also have bacteria inhibiting properties. Include blueberries in your diet.

4. Pineapple: Eating pineapple helps in this condition.

5. Echinacea: Echinacea helps fight infection and also increases immunity of the system.

6. Alfalfa Juice: Alfalfa is more beneficial for the kidney. It helps get rid of the toxins and ensures the bacteria does not spread to the kidneys.

7. Baking Soda: Add a pinch of baking soda to a glass of water and drink. This increases the pH balance of the urine.

It is important that one does not hold the urge to urinate. Clean the area well and wipe from front to back not the reverse way as that increases the chances of getting the bacteria to the urethra. Clean yourself completely after lovemaking session. Avoid sprays and douches on body. Take showers instead of tub baths and avoid alcohol, coffee and tea. Stay away from bladder irritating foods like chocolates, spicy food, tomato and nicotine. Avoid sugary and starchy food. Do not wear tight undergarments, instead wear loose comfortable clothing.

Read useful Home Remedies for Urinary Tract Infection. Also know Home Remedies for Conjunctivitis. Read more Home Remedies for Rosacea.

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