Urinary Tract Infections occur when the bacteria (mostly E.coli) travel through the urethra and up toward the bladder. It can be painful and cause many uncomfortable symptoms, like a burning sensation accompanied by a frequent and uncontrollable urge to urinate. Although women are at an increased risk due to the shorter length of their urethra, men can also contract this bacterial infection.
Antibiotics are often the most effective treatment course for bacterial infections, but several ancillary treatments for UTI in males are also available. Note that these may not always be effective, especially in severe cases where the bacteria have spread through the ureters and begun to multiply in the kidneys.
Ancillary Treatments and Preventive Measures
Certain preventive measures can help reduce the recurrence risk of UTIs in men. They can complement medical treatment and make your recovery smoother. Here is what you can do to lower your risk of getting UTI.
Hydration
A simple yet effective step for reducing the risk of UTI or preventing it from getting worse is hydration. Ideally, you must drink 2 liters of fluids per day, unless a urologist in Vashi, Navi Mumbai, recommends otherwise due to other medical conditions. Water eliminates bacteria from your urinary tract, preventing them from growing.
Urination Frequency
Holding the urine gives bacteria more time to thrive and multiply. To prevent them from sticking to the urinary tract, you must empty your bladder when needed. This can make the occurrence of UTI less likely.
Cranberry Products
There’s a strong belief that cranberry supplements can prevent UTI. It’s a good source of proanthocyanidins (PACs) (a compound that helps prevent the E.coli bacteria from sticking to your urinary tract). That said, the scientific research on this topic is limited. Besides, cranberry supplements alone cannot fight UTI. They might help prevent the recurrence.
Probiotics
Probiotics, whether you take them in a supplement form or through foods, such as yogurt, can help with UTIs. These are known for improving the balance of the gut bacteria, promoting overall immunity, and improving gut health. They can also lower the chances of E.coli and other UTI-causing bacteria thriving in the bladder.
D-Mannose
This natural sugar, found in fruits such as cranberries, has shown promising results in preventing the recurrence of UTI in men and women. In fact, research shows that it can be used for the treatment of uncomplicated UTI. It creates a non-stick surface around the urinary tract, which prevents bacteria from sticking.
Heating Pad
Using a warm compress for gentle massaging can relieve discomfort caused by an active urinary tract infection. It can reduce cramps and make recovery more comfortable. However, heating pads are never a substitute for antibiotics or other treatments for UTI.
Conclusion
Ancillary treatments are not a substitute for antibiotics and may not be effective in treating an active UTI in men. It’s important to control the infection with antibiotics so it doesn’t spread to the kidneys and become severe.
