Frequent urination, burning when urinating or pain in the lower abdomen are common symptoms in women and can indicate a bladder infection. What should you do in this case? Are there any home remedies that can prevent cystitis? In this article, we explain the causes, symptoms and home remedies for cystitis.
Causes of cystitis
Most inflammations of the urogenital tract are caused by the body's own E. coli bacteria. However, in addition to these, staphylococci, streptococci, klebsiae or even fungi such as the yeast Candida albicans are also responsible.
Women in particular often suffer from cystitis. Since the female urethra is only a few centimetres short, the pathogens of the inflammation have a short way to reach the bladder. In addition, the opening of the urethra is closer to the anal region in women. This makes it easier for the E.coli bacteria to penetrate the urinary tract and attach themselves to the mucous membrane.
Does the home remedy D-mannose help with bladder infections?
The finger-like appendages of the bacteria make it impossible to flush out the E.coli bacteria once they have penetrated the mucous membrane. D-mannose, for example, is able to prevent the attachment and minimise the bacterial load.
Mannose is a simple sugar that plays an important role in the energy supply of humans and occurs as a natural sugar in plants as well as in the human body. D-mannose supports the urinary tract and bladder and helps prevent recurrent urinary tract infections.
Factors favouring bladder infections
- Weakness of the immune system and certain metabolic disorders (e.g. diabetes)
- Sexual intercourse (honeymoon cystitis)
- Pregnancy
- Urinary retention or residual urine in the bladder
A frequent urge to urinate, a burning sensation when urinating, or pain in the lower abdomen can all be signs of a bladder infection. If these symptoms last for more than three days or if you also have a fever, you should see a doctor as a matter of urgency.
- Drink plenty of water: two litres of water and unsweetened herbal tea.
- Use the toilet regularly
- Use bladder-friendly contraception
- Watch the direction of wiping after going to the toilet
- Keep warm, e.g. with comfortable cotton underwear
- Regular but not excessive intimate hygiene
How can I prevent a bladder infection?
If you have any further questions or problems on this topic, please do not hesitate to contact our pharmacists at the Saint Charles Pharmacy in Vienna or Berlin. We will be happy to help you.
