The tube that takes urine stored in the bladder to the outside world is called the urethra. In males, semen also passes through it. There are times when the urethra becomes infected and inflamed, leading to a condition that’s known as urethritis. Experts say that it is commonly caused by bacteria.
Fortunately, urethritis is something that can be easily treated. Aside from the intake of antibiotics, there are also many different home remedies proven effective against it. Having the problem treated is of utmost importance. Otherwise, the infection may spread to other parts of the urinary system, potentially causing lasting and serious problems.
Causes
Experts say that most cases of urethritis are caused by bacteria, the same kinds that infect the bladder and kidneys when a urinary tract infection or UTI strikes. There are also times when bacteria responsible for sexually transmitted infections or STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea are to blame.
In some cases, urethritis is brought about by viruses. They include the likes of the cytomegalovirus, human papillomavirus or HPV, and herpes simplex virus or HSV.
Risk Factors
Urethritis is a condition that people of all ages may suffer from. Men and women alike can get it. However, it is said that women are at higher risk of it than men. This is for the fact that a female’s urethra is much closer to the rectum, and bacteria present in the rectal area can easily get to the opening of the urethra.
Symptoms
You will have this frequent urge to urinate if you have urethritis. There is often discomfort or burning sensation while you are peeing. It’s not uncommon for blood to be present in the urine. In males, there may be blood in the semen, too. It’s possible for discharge from the penis to be observed as well.
Women with urethritis may notice discharge from the vagina. Also, they may have increased body temperature and chills, both of which can be expected as there’s an ongoing infection. However, not everyone with urethritis has symptoms. This is common in women. It’s also usual in males who have urethritis due to an STI.
Treatment
A course of antibiotics is prescribed by a doctor in order to put an end to the bacterial infection behind the problem. If a virus is the one causing urethritis, antiviral drugs are administered. In cases where the disease is due to STIs, all concerned sexual partners should be tested in order to ward off the further spreading of the infection.
Home Remedies
There are numerous home remedies available for urethritis that is caused by bacteria. Some of the best ones proven effective by those who had the problem include:
- Plenty of fluids. Drinking lots of water throughout the day helps flush out bacteria and toxins in the urethra. Enjoying herbal tea can help increase your overall fluid intake.
- Baking soda and water. Consuming a glass of water with a teaspoon of baking soda in it helps make the pH level in the urinary tract less friendly to bacteria.
- Apple cider vinegar. Aside from a teaspoon of baking soda, you may also mix a couple of teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water. Drink to zap those bacteria.
- Cranberry juice. The intake of cranberry juice is one of the most effective and popular home remedies for problems with the urinary system, and that includes urethritis.
- Pineapple. This tropical fruit is rich in bromelain, an enzyme with superb anti-inflammatory properties. Include fresh pineapples in your diet or consume pineapple juice.
- Tea tree oil. Place 8 drops of it in your bathwater and soak in it for several minutes. Some people also swear by the effectiveness of adding 3 tablespoons of unflavored yogurt, too.
