Does Cranberry Juice Really Help UTIs?
Cystitis affects approximately 4 million women in the United Kingdom each year. This typical urinary tract illness (UTI) causes bladder discomfort and a burning sensation when going to the toilet. Cystitis, while not the most serious of problems, can be extremely unpleasant. Reports suggest that more than 150 million individuals worldwide are afflicted every year.
Despite how prevalent UTIs are, there hasn’t been much research to accurately detect and treat them. Misdiagnosis is common, and many women seek a cure through home treatments such as cranberry juice. Is this the most effective strategy to cure a UTI, and if not, what should you do to cure cystitis permanently?
Is cystitis only a female disease?
Women are more prone to UTIs. There’s a peak when women become sexually active and a further rise in later life.
According to statistics, one-third of women acquire a UTI before they’re 24, and 10% before they turn 16. Women are not the only ones affected by UTIs. UTIs can also affect men.
Dr Malone-Lee believes that UTIs may go unnoticed in men across all age groups.
How do urinary tract infections occur?
A single microbe is the main culprit for UTIs in male and female patients. This microbe enters the bladder through the urethra. However, a debate exists against this because even a healthy bladder isn’t completely sterile. A study of 600 bacteria in UTI patients discovered more than 450 different germs had been found in a healthy bladder.
In addition, there is some evidence that a genetic component may play a role in UTIs, as they frequently occur in families.
Is cystitis a serious condition?
Short-term antibiotics or at-home treatment is often enough to cure cystitis. However, the effects can last longer for 20-30% of patients.
Infections may develop into pyelonephritis if treatment is not received. This complication can cause hospitalisation. Pyelonephritis is a serious kidney infection that can cause sickness, high temperatures, vomiting, and pain. Failure to treat this may progress to septicaemia, which can be fatal.
Is there any truth to the claim that cranberry juice helps?
Cranberry juice has long been the first stop for people with cystitis. Cranberries contain proanthocyanidin, which inhibits bacterial development in the urinary tract.
However, a Yale University study has found this is not true. The research reviewed the bacteria in the urine of 185 nursing home residents throughout the year and discovered that cranberries had no significant impact.
What types of treatments are available?
As cranberry juice doesn’t work, what should you use instead to cure cystitis? Cystitis medication is likely the most logical choice.
Trimethoprim is an antibiotic that can treat and prevent kidney, bladder, and other urinary tract infections. The best possibility of overcoming a UTI is by taking this extended-release capsule with food at frequent intervals for three days. Trimethoprim is accessible from Express Pharmacy.
