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Common Health Problems |
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Cystitis
by Amy Ralston, MBAcC, MZBA, MKosmedUK |
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 Cystitis is characterised by a frequent urge to pass urine, and an uncomfortable burning feeling upon urination. It is caused by a bacterial infection in the bladder. Cystitis has many possible causes, and it is important to be clear about probable origin before self-treating. If you are experiencing significant lower back pain, pain or swelling in the lymph nodes of the groin, fever or blood in the urine, please see a doctor. Frequent cystitis should be reported to your doctor in order to rule out diabetes.
The birth control pill can also cause frequent thrush and/or bladder infections, as can candida and food intolerances.
1) Avoid sugar or yeast in any form while symptoms are present. This includes, for example, high sugar fruits, honey, white flour, yeast in bread, alcohol and mushrooms.
2) Eat plain, live yogurt or use a good acidophilus/bifidis supplement to encourage friendly bacteria dominance.
3) Drink cranberry juice (only the kind sweetened with apple juice) if you can find one that isn't too sweet; otherwise, cranberry in capsule form is now available in good health food shops.
4) Buchu and Uva Ursi are two herbs which soothe the lining of the urinary tract and have an anti-bacterial effect. They are available in capsule or tincture form. Take a moderate dose (1-2 capsules or 15 drops tincture) 3 or 4 times a day when symptoms are acute.
5) Get plenty of rest! Avoid caffeine in all forms, as it stresses the body.
6) Avoid sexual relations, which can exacerbate discomfort and bacterial spread.
7) Acupuncture can be particularly useful for cystitis.
8) The homeopathic remedy Cantharis 30c can speed recovery.
9) Drink plenty of water to flush the bladder continually.
10) Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting trousers.
11) Take 3-5 grams of Vitamin C per day, at intervals. Make sure it is in ascorbate form, which does not irritate the stomach lining. Lower dosage if diarrhoea occurs (this is harmless).
© Copyright Wholistic Research Company 2001
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