Infection Urine and vaginal probiotics

Urinary tract infections, also known as cystitis, occur when bacteria enter the urethra, infecting the urinary tract. Although it can affect any part of the urinary tract, the most common UTI is a bladder infection, known as cystitis.

Causes of infection

Urinary tract infections are caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli), a bacterium found in the gastrointestinal tract, but sometimes other bacteria.

- Sexual intercourse can cause cystitis, although sexual activity is not necessary to develop cystitis.

- Women are more likely than men to get UTIs because of their anatomy.

- Failure to cleanse the area properly or poor intimate hygiene can also lead to this type of condition.

Differences between cystitis and UTIs

It should be clear that urinary tract infections occur when bacteria enter the urethra and travel to the bladder, and there are two possible scenarios:

- If the infection stays only in the bladder, it is called cystitis or lower urinary tract infection, which are the most common.

- If the infection moves to the kidneys, it is called kidney infection, pyelonephritis or upper urinary tract infection.

Symptoms of cystitis How do I know if I have a UTI?

The most common symptoms of UTI in adults are as follows:

- Strong urge to urinate frequently, even after the bladder has been completely emptied.

- Pain or burning when urinating.

- Cloudy or bloody urine that may be foul-smelling.

- Cramps in the abdomen or lower back.

- low-grade fever in some people.

How long does the infection last?

In most cases, the symptoms of a bladder infection usually disappear within 24 to 48 hours of starting treatment. However, if you have a kidney infection, it may take 1 week or even longer for the symptoms to go away.

What to take for cystitis? What is the treatment for a urinary tract infection?

Medications usually recommended for simple urinary tract infections include the following active ingredients: Fosfomycin, Nitrofurantoin or Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole.

In addition, in cases of a propensity for recurrent cystitis, it is also recommended to use a probiotic to prevent urinary tract infections, which can be found in pharmacies.

If you suspect you are suffering from cystitis, see your doctor so that he or she can prescribe the appropriate medication.

Cranberry, the best ally against cystitis

Cranberry is a food with antibacterial properties that helps prevent urinary tract infections. Specifically, the American cranberry variety is a fruit rich in proanthocyanidins (PAC), polysaccharides that minimise the presence of Escherichia coli bacteria in the bladder and urinary tract, inhibiting their activity. This bacterium is responsible for most recurrent urinary tract infections, such as cystitis. Therefore, regular intake of cranberry is considered to prevent urinary tract infections, especially in women.

At FarmaciasDirect you can find different products formulated with PAC for the prevention of cystitis.

How to prevent urinary tract infection?

There are different ways to take care of yourself to prevent cystitis:

1. Drink plenty of water.

2. In the bathroom, wipe the intimate area from the front to the back.

3. Maintain proper genital hygiene, including washing the area before sexual intercourse.

4. Urinate before and after sexual activity. It is recommended to drink a glass of water beforehand to facilitate the process.