Medicine
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How do I get Relief from Urinary Symptoms?

Felicia Dye
Felicia Dye

If you are looking to get relief from urinary symptoms, you may want to consider the cause of the problem. The culprit could be any number of things. More information gives you a better chance of successfully alleviating your discomfort. For example, urinary tract infections (UTIs) must be treated with medication. If, however, you are suffering from an ordinary bladder infection, you can save money and buy yourself some cranberry juice.

Many women suffer from UTIs. Symptoms often include pain or discomfort while urinating, and uncontrolled leaking of urine. If you believe this is your problem, there are several options available to get relief from urinary symptoms that accompany the infection.

Drinking cranberry juice may help fight bladder infections.
Drinking cranberry juice may help fight bladder infections.

First, you may want to try over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as Uristat® or Cystex®. Such a medication typically will help you quickly eliminate discomfort. Second, you should go to a doctor and get a prescription. The OTC medications will only help you get relief from urinary symptoms; they do not cure the infection. If you leave the infection untreated, not only are the symptoms likely to return, but greater problems are likely to develop.

A heating pad may help relieve the discomfort experienced during a urinary tract infection.
A heating pad may help relieve the discomfort experienced during a urinary tract infection.

A bladder infection often is less severe both in terms of symptoms and as a threat of causing other problems. These infections also are common. The good news is that you may be able to get relief from urinary symptoms connected with these infections, and you may be able to cure the infection at home.

To do so, you should drastically increase your water consumption. This increases urination, which is believed to help release the troublesome bacteria from the bladder. Additionally, you should drink a great deal of cranberry juice, which is believed to make the bladder an unsuitable environment for the bacteria. Together, these liquids can help the body dispose of the bacteria and as this is done, the symptoms increasingly are reduced. Natural remedies often are too slow for many people, but this is one that generally shows quick results.

A hot water bottle may provide relief from painful urinary symptoms.
A hot water bottle may provide relief from painful urinary symptoms.

Heat therapy also has been known to provide relief for urinary symptoms. This is an easy and inexpensive option that you may wish to try. All you need is a heating pad or a hot water bottle, and a bit of time. It normally is advised that you should place the heat source on your abdomen and allow it to stay for at least 20 minutes. Be sure that there is a barrier between the heat source and your skin, such as a shirt or a towel.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Drinking cranberry juice may help fight bladder infections.
      By: Galina Mikhalishina
      Drinking cranberry juice may help fight bladder infections.
    • A heating pad may help relieve the discomfort experienced during a urinary tract infection.
      By: nito
      A heating pad may help relieve the discomfort experienced during a urinary tract infection.
    • A hot water bottle may provide relief from painful urinary symptoms.
      By: fotomatrix
      A hot water bottle may provide relief from painful urinary symptoms.
    • Urinary tract infections must be treated with medication.
      By: Darren Baker
      Urinary tract infections must be treated with medication.