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A urinary tract infection can be painful and bothersome. Perhaps you’ve heard that drinking cranberry juice is a simple effective cure to treat the infection without the hassle of seeing a doctor. Is this the case?
Many people believe that cranberries, or cranberry juice, can cure a urinary tract infection (UTI). However, the truth is that while cranberries may help prevent recurrent infections, they are not an effective cure for a bladder infection.
If you’re wondering why this is so, and what you can do if you do have an infection, read on.
There have been many studies on the effects of cranberries in urinary tract infections. Research has shown that an active ingredient in cranberries called “proanthocyanidins,” or PCAs for short, can affect bacterial growth.
The most common bacterial cause of urinary tract infections is an organism called Escherichia Coli or E. Coli. This bacteria usually lives in the intestines of healthy humans and animals and most are not harmful, however some strains can cause infection.
PCAs found in cranberries can prevent E. Coli from attaching to the bladder wall lining. In other words, they can help prevent infection.
While PCAs found in cranberries can help prevent infection, it is important to note that a cup of cranberry juice may only contain a small amount of this active ingredient. Moreover, cranberry juice cocktail drinks are loaded with sugar. Cranberry tablets or pills may be a healthier option for prevention.
For UTI prevention, a recent article in Pharmacy Today recommended two options:
The research shows some evidence that cranberry products may reduce the incidence of UTIs but the most effective amount and concentration of PACs that must be consumed and how long they should be taken are unknown.
Urinary tract infections are common, affecting approximately 50% of adult women during their lifetime.
In some cases, simple urinary tract infections go away on their own. One study found that approximately 25-42% of uncomplicated UTIs resolve without any medical treatment. However, in other cases, the body’s immune system is not able to kill and eliminate harmful bacteria on its own. Doctors may prescribe antibiotics for infections that require treatment.
There are some things you can do for relief, or even after you have seen your doctor while you are waiting for an antibiotic to work.
It is important to stay hydrated, drinking plenty of water flushes out the bladder. When going to the bathroom it is important to try to empty the bladder completely. UTIs can cause frequent urges to urinate or pressure in the low abdomen. Going to the bathroom frequently to empty the bladder can help.
Heating pads may provide some relief of low abdomen discomfort. And over-the-counter pain relievers such as Motrin or Tylenol can also be taken to help with discomfort.
Untreated infections could spread and become serious. Talk to your doctor as soon as you suspect a UTI. These can be signs of a serious infection:
If you need treatment for a UTI or want to talk about your symptoms with one of our board-certified physicians, click below to schedule an appointment. My Virtual Physician treats conditions including urinary tract infections, other urinary problems, sexually transmitted infections, and more. If you have any suggestions for additional topics you want to read about, let us know! Don’t forget to follow us on social media.
